(a) The developed countries of the first world generally referred to as ‘Global North’ were concerned with the ozone depletion and global warming, whereas the developing countries of the third world called the ‘Global South” were anxious to address the relationship between economic development and environmental management.
(b) There were major differences between the countries of the North and the South over environmental issues. The developed countries of the North wanted everyone to be made equally responsible for ecological conservation. The Global South on the other hand felt that much of the environmental degradation caused today is the result of economic activities pursued by the Global North. Hence, they believed that the Global North owes a greater responsibility of undoing the damage now.
(i) Moreover, the developing countries are undergoing a process of industrialisation and they should not be subjected to the same restrictions which apply to the developed countries.
(ii)These two concerns were effectively addressed by the Principle of “Common but differentiated responsibilities. It accepted that the special needs of the developing countries be taken into consideration and in view of different contributions of global environmental degradation; states have common but differentiated responsibilities.
