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International co-operation

The aim of international co-operation is to contribute to the increase of environmental awareness, improvement of the state of the environment and implementation of the principles of sustainable development in Estonia, Europe and the whole world.

The Estonian Ministry of the Environment has two important aspects in international co-operation in mind:

• Using international experience in the field of environmental protection and support from other countries to improve the state of the environment in Estonia;
• Sharing the experience and support Estonia is able to provide with countries who are interested.

Environmental co-operation can be divided into four levels:

1. Bilateral co-operation or co-operation between countries;
2. Regional co-operation or co-operation with the Baltic Sea countries;
3. Co-operation with European countries, especially in the framework of the European Union;
4. Global co-operation.

International co-operation of the Ministry of the Environment, including communication with international organisations and development and conclusion of international agreements, is coordinated and organised by the International Co-operation Department.

In addition, the International Co-operation Department:

• Monitors performance of obligations entered into by international agreements;
• Coordinates participation in the work of the committees and working groups of the European Union Commission and Council in the area of government of the Ministry of the Environment as well as development of Estonia's positions in the area of government of the Ministry of the Environment;
• Coordinates development co-operation;
• Collects and transmits information and documents necessary for foreign relations and ensures consultation necessary for foreign relations to other structural units of the Ministry.

What has been achieved?

• In order to strengthen international partner relations, Estonia has become party to the most important global and regional conventions and other multilateral international agreements;
• Estonia has concluded bilateral environmental protection agreements with all of its neighbouring countries;
• Performing its obligations (membership fees and reports) arising from international agreements, the Ministry is a reliable partner to its international partners;
• The Ministry successfully participates in the work of the European Union institutions;
• A system for preparation and protection of Estonia's positions has been developed and is successfully being implemented in the development of the European Union environmental policy;
• The Ministry has commenced development cooperation in the field of the environment.