DEMYSTIFYING THE MARRAKECH PROCESS

The transition to sustainable patterns of consumption and production on global scale requires dialogue and coordination among all relevant actors. The Marrakech Process aims to assist countries in their efforts to green their economies by developing greener business models and consumption patterns. For this process to function effectively, a clear understanding of the process and its central elements among stakeholders is a critical precondition.

 

What is the Marrakech Process?

The Marrakech Process is a multi-stakeholder platform designed to support the implementation of SCP projects and strategies which lead to the development of a global framework for action on SCP. The process was implemented pursuant to the 2002 UN World Summit in Johannesburg that called on participating countries to foster cooperation in the field of SCP in order to pave the way toward greener economies. The United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) and the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) are the lead agencies in the process. These organisations work in partnership with national governments, development agencies, and civil society organisations. One of the main recommendations flowing from the Third International Expert Meeting on Sustainable Consumption and Production, held in Stockholm, Sweden in June 2007, was to develop a communication strategy to increase the visibility of the Marrakech Process. UNEP planned to produce a booklet that outlined the most frequently asked questions on the Marrakech Process as one element of the communication strategy.

 

"Frequently Asked Questions on the Marrakech Process"

 

The Marrakech Process is a vibrant and complex process demanding clear and concise information to enable stakeholders to effectively participate. “Frequently Asked Questions on the Marrakech Process” is a booklet which assists stakeholders and the public to gain an understanding of the process by clarifying its key activities and defining the concept of SCP. Brief answers to important questions, illustrative diagrams and images of central elements enable stakeholders and the public to understand the process in a clear and easy-to-read manner. Examples of topic areas covered include the various Marrakech Task Forces (MTF) and the roles for civil society organisations, business leaders and government within the process.

 

Addressing relevant stakeholders

Although the booklet is relevant to the broader public, the main target audience is governments, business leaders, development agencies and NGOs as central players in the process to foster a transition toward greener sustainable economies.

 

Background

The “Frequently Asked Questions on the Marrakech Process” booklet was financed and published by UNEP as a part of its communication strategy.