19 January 2009: The Ministerial Conference on Global Environment and Energy in Transport took place from 14-16 January 2009, in Tokyo, Japan, with the participation of representatives from G8 and other States as well as relevant international organizations, to discuss issues and consider measures on greenhouse gas (GHG) and air pollutant emissions from the transport sector.�

The Conference was organized by the Japanese Ministry of Land Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, and concluded with the adoption of a joint statement recognizing that, while transport is “an important foundation of our society,” it is responsible for “considerable emissions of carbon dioxide,” affecting the climate and public health. The statement further stresses the need for urgent action to address these issues while ensuring sustainable development. In particular, ministers call on the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to “deliver a package of appropriate mechanisms for reducing emissions, preferably by the end of 2009.” Participating countries also express their support to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to develop an implementation framework with technology, standards and market-based measures by the end of the year to reduce GHG emissions. [Conference Website] [The Statement]