International Environment House opens in Geneva

The Swiss authorities on Tuesday formally opened the International Environment House in Geneva, as part of attempts to make the city an international centre for environmental studies and policies.

The Swiss authorities on Tuesday formally opened the International Environment House in Geneva, as part of attempts to make the city an international centre for environmental studies and policies.

The house is meant to serve as a focal point for major international environmental organisations based in Geneva, said Philippe Roche, head of the Swiss Environment ministry.

Twenty-five international organisations will come together under one roof, including the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the Swiss Environment ministry

Roche said that the policies development in the new house should not only focus on the environment and its protection, but also address the impact of social and economic decisions.

UNEP head Klaus Töpfer welcomed the opening of the house and said the building — which is owned by the Swiss — would serve as a location where environmental data can be exchanged and international partnerships formed.

Local officials said that, with the new institution, Geneva could play a key role in the sectors of environmental protection and sustainable development.

Several international organisations are already located in the Geneva region, including CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora), the UNEP and the World Wife Fund for Nature (WWF).


From staff and wire reports.