United Nations Conference on Environment & Development:
Information, Public Participation & Comunication System

A Preliminary Proposal
&
Discussion of the Proposal

Information Habitat: Where Information Lives

United Nations Conference on Environment and Development
Information, Public Participation & Communication System

A Preliminary Proposal

Background

Maurice Strong, Secretary General of the 1992 United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED), has expressed a clear interest in making use of electronic conferencing systems such as EcoNet for the dissemination of information in preparation for UNCED, and for providing a vehicle for participation by NGOs and other interested parties in the proceedings and preparations leading into the conference.

The following proposal has been developed in response to that interest and with input from conversations with Peter Thacher, Senior Adviser to the UNCED Secretariat, Bill Leland of EcoNet, and Bob Loeb and Galen Dixon of the Telecommunications Cooperative Network (TCN). It is proposed that the structure of the electronic conferencing be developed as a cooperative project between the Institute for Global Communications, through EcoNet, and the Telecommunications Cooperative Network, with the support of the UNCED Secretariat and the United Nations Department of Public Information (UNDPI).

The approach presented here is based on some assumptions as to the nature and significance of the 1992 conference, as well as on some premises as to the nature of electronic conferencing.

Action Arenas for the 1992 United Nations Conference

The proceedings leading into UNCED have a number of distinct constituencies, action arenas and agendas that the design of the UNCED electronic conferencing needs to address. These include the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development itself and the workings of the Preparatory Committee, in which delegates from national governments will participate, along with non-government organizations (NGOs) in consultative status to the UN; there is also a need for structuring access to the formal UN proceedings and deliberations by other NGOs, by private voluntary organizations (PVOs) and by individuals.

In each country, there will be a need for NGOs and others to organize to raise the issues of UNCED on their national agendas. In this context, there will be several different areas of focus; some organizations will be directing their attention towards government and the development of national legislative agendas; others will be will be developing action agendas within a variety of grassroots constituencies at a national level; others still will be developing local or regional forums in which issues of environment and development will be addressed.

Furthermore, there have been preliminary discussions about convening a "Congress of the People of the Earth" in Brazil at the time of UNCED (June 1992) as a parallel conference for NGOs and other grassroots groups with a concern for addressing issues of environment and development. Appropriate use of electronic conferencing could play a key role in preparations and planning for such a gathering.

Within each of these contexts, the use of electronic conferencing can play a valuable role. While there will be a value in having separate electronic conferences within each action arena, all will need to maintain access to a core set of information on the UNCED proceedings, and there will be many areas of overlap and/or need for dialogue between participants in the different action arenas.

For example, groups developing national legislative agendas will want to disseminate information to local and regional groups within their own countries and to be in communication with their counterparts in other countries. Local and regional groups will need to share information and strategies with each other -- within their own countries as well as internationally -- and will likely want to have input into developments at the national level.

Issues in Electronic Conferencing

The great strengths of electronic conferencing include timely and ready access to information and opportunities for timely participation and multi-way dialogue. The weaknesses include resistance from a lack of familiarity with electronic conferencing and tendencies towards information overload.

The proposed electronic conferencing structure is designed to support access to the UNCED information, and participation in the UNCED proceedings at a variety of different levels. This is to reflect the broad range of parties with an interest in UNCED -- national governments, non-government organizations (NGOs) in consultative status with the UN, other NGOs, private voluntary organizations (PVO) and individuals. The structure is also intended to provide for various levels of participation from within any of these groups, so that those who only have need of basic information, or who are relatively inexperienced in computer conferencing, can make effective use of the system without being overwhelmed or intimidated, while those who wish can proceed to significantly greater levels of information and participation.

In order to take advantage of the strengths, and to minimize the impact of the weaknesses, of electronic conferencing -- which would otherwise result in an unreasonable bias favoring the participation of computer literate delegates and NGOs -- two issues need to be addressed.

Firstly, the structure of the UNCED electronic conferences needs to be carefully designed, and secondly, adequate support resources need to be available -- including a concise manual geared specifically to the UNCED electronic conferencing, provision for training in the use of electronic conferencing for delegates, along with the availability of telephone (voice) support, and provision for maintenance and facilitation of the conferences.

At present, there is substantial global access to the Telecommunications Cooperative Network, and EcoNet is directly accessible from much of Europe, Central America, Australia, etc., via the other networks of the Association for Progressive Communications. EcoNet conferences are also accessible internationally through TeleNet.

The Telecommunications Cooperative Network and EcoNet currently serve somewhat different constituencies, and some of the conferences related to UNCED would tend to belong more naturally on one or the other of these systems. However, as noted earlier, there are a great number of areas in which there would be opportunities for very fruitful interchange and dialogue between conferences on the two systems. It is proposed that information "windows" be developed to allow ready communication between the systems, including the opportunity to have access to and participate in each other's conferences.

Given the global nature of UNCED, it is important to ascertain that access is available from all over the world. In addition, although this proposal does not address it, there is the issue of dissemination of UNCED information, and opportunities to participate electronically, in languages other than English.

The essence of the design I am proposing as a starting point for discussion would consist of a number of separate conferences for different types of information on UNCED, and for each of these types, current information would be separated from archival information so that the size of the conferences with current information remains manageable. While this structure would require additional maintenance, and at first sight, might seem to make for a more cumbersome design, I am confident that the benefits of such a structure would soon be seen to outweigh the higher maintenance cost.

Perhaps it is worth noting that underlying the design of this conference is the premise that information science and technology is a vital to the challenge of developing sustainability, and that intelligent use of information technology is essential to the design and creation of an effective participatory common future.

Overview of Proposed Conferences at the United Nations Level

The following is a list and brief description of an initial set of conferences envisioned relating directly to the UNCED proceedings. This proposal does not attempt to delineate prospective conferences within the other action arenas noted earlier in the proposal, however, many of the reasons for the design of the conference structure will also hold true in these other action arenas. And even within the proceedings directly relating to UNCED, this list of proposed conference makes no claim to be complete.

UNCED.UPDATES
A read-only conference providing concise weekly updates (2 pages or so) posted at a regular time each week. The weekly updates would identify cross references to conference topics where more detailed information is posted. Only the four most recent weekly updates would be maintained on this conference.

A national delegate (whether or not on the Preparatory Committee), a representative of an NGO (whether or not in consultative status to the U.N.), or any other interested party, can check in on a regular weekly basis with the knowledge that he or she will receive a manageable amount of information and guidance as to where fuller information is available.

By only keeping the updates for the last four weeks, anyone can come into the conference and get a feel of what is going on, without being burdened by having to catch up on everything that has happened. The FCNL.UPDATES conference of weekly legislative updates of the Friends Committee on National Legislation is a model for this conference.

UNCED.UPDATES.ARCHIVE
A read only conference consisting of the cumulative record of the UNCED.UPDATES conference, providing a concise history of UNCED developments to date, for easy reference.

UNCED.SCHEDULE
A read only conference with the schedule of upcoming events related to UNCED, the Preparatory Committee and the Working Groups, with a brief summary of the purpose of the event. I have some questions about how this would be maintained so that events are listed in chronological order by date of occurrence rather than by date of posting, but I believe this should be manageable.

UNCED.SCHEDULE.ARCHIVE
A read only conference with a cumulative history of UNCED related events that have already taken place, including the brief summary of the purpose of the event, and a brief summary of what actually took place -- including any decisions that were made.

UNCED.PROPOSALS
A conference describing pending proposals. Write access would be available to national delegations and to consultative status NGOs. Others would only be allowed read only access.

UNCED.PROPOSALS.ARCHIVE
A read only archival conference of non-current proposals, the comments of national delegations and consultative status NGOs, and a record of the disposition of the proposal.

UNCED.PROPOSALS.NGO
This would be a parallel conference to UNCED.PROPOSALS, but would allow write access to NGOs not in consultative status and to other parties. Rather than have automatic write access to all users, however, my inclination is to provide write access on request, but subject to adherence to guidelines that would be established for responding to topics and the creation of new topics. Write access could then be withdrawn where a user fails to meet those guidelines. I am led to this approach by my reading of new topics and responses in other EcoNet conferences where conference often become unreasonably cluttered by dialogue or comments that more properly should be handled by direct mail messages to the appropriate parties. I realize that this may be a sensitive issue for some, but I believe that a sound case can be made for requiring a reasonable protocol for participation. An alternative, but more restrictive and cumbersome, process to this would be a facilitated conference in which topics and responses are directed to the facilitator, who can then post them to the conference.

Some kind of review process of the responses -- whether by the Conference Secretariat or by an NGO group would be needed, so that the key issues raised can be brought forward to the UNCED.PROPOSALS conference by an NGO in consultative status.

UNCED.RESOLUTIONS
A read only conference containing the text of resolutions, whether of the General Assembly, the Preparatory Committee, or of the Working Groups.

UNCED.REPORTS
A conference containing reports produced by or for the Conference Secretariat, e.g. the 70 page compilation of system wide U.N. programs, services, and capabilities with respect to the UNCED. Write access would be available to national delegations and to NGOs in consultative status. As with UNCED.PROPOSALS, a parallel conference with participation open to others could be established.

Discussion of the Proposal

From bleland Fri Mar 16 07:52 PST 1990
To: pthatcher rpollard
Subject: Re: Preliminary proposal for UNCED EcoNet Conferences
Cc: gmarcus

Robert,

Thank you for sending me a copy of your Preliminary Proposal. Yes, I am enthusiastic about moving forward with you.

It should be noted that most countries which are not in close proximity to our Association for Progressive Communications network can access EcoNet through Telenet numbers in their countries. There is a charge for Telenet access through these numbers which is in the $18 - $25/hour range usually.

Thank you again for your good work.

Regards, Bill

From pthatcher Sat Mar 17 20:20 PST 1990
To: rpollard
Subject: UNCED EcoNet Conferences
Cc: bleland gmarcus lassuncao pthatcher

Rob - just a short note to thank you for your very thoughtful proposal of 15 March which is encouraging and stimulating. Almost certainly the UNCED secretariat will want to act on this quickly and we will get back to you and Bill Leland as soon as possible. But first the dust of the Prepcom has to settle and Maurice Strong has to assemble a core staff. Lucas Asuncao of UNDP has a copy and will be joining working on this on the inside of the UNCED secretariat with help from Frank Barabas of UN/DPI, Enzo Pulliatti of UNDP, Harris Gleckman of UN/CTC and others. We will be reacting to you soon, I hope next week. I'll be in Washington % WRI until the end of the month. Again, many thanks.
Peter

From gmarcus Sat Mar 17 20:33 PST 1990
To: rpollard
Subject: Proposal
Cc: bleland

Robert,

Your proposal looks great. One item I couldn't find in your text would be: "It should be added that training in telecommunications is available for online delegates."

Best, Genevieve

Date: 29 Mar 90 09:38:00 PST
From: TCN001@DCDTCN.DAS.NET
To: cdp!rpollard
Subject: Proposal for 1992 UN Conference

Rob...got your message and will review and get back to you. Also spoke briefly with Peter Thacher who commented very favorably on your work. I look forward to talking more.

Bob [Loeb]

From gmarcus Sat Mar 31 17:59 PST 1990
To: rpollard
Subject: Proposal

Robert,

Just a few quick thoughts prior to deeper study of the revised proposal.

Another weakness of teleconferencing is the common "perceived" lack of access to computers with modems. In a more extensive proposal, the situation of those presently without access will need to be solved. There are several ways to address it.

More headings and graphic differentiation could make your ideas clearer and easier to digest.

Don't apologize for archival separation. It's essential. Just state it. I don't know the level of computer sophistication of those who will read the proposal, but it might be easier for non-initiates to understand "discussion areas" versus "libraries," "information areas," or other similar terms.

The type of limited access conference you describe is "moderated" on IGC, not "facilitated." You might consider having both limited access and moderated access. The former will reduce the load on the moderator.

Does Bill indicate that conference sharing between TCN and IGC is feasible?

I hope at some point, the World Citizens' Assembly will connect up with your proposed conference.

Best,
Genevieve

From rpollard Apr 2 11:21 PST 1990
To: gmarcus
Subject: Proposal

Genevieve,

Thanks for your comments. I have been giving considerable thought to the question of access of those without computers -- had a good talk with Eileen Nic of International Org. of Consumer Unions on Thursday at a briefing on UNCED at FCNL (Friends Committee on National Legislation) last Thursday. Basically, we need to develop a structure wherein people with modems serve as communication nodes, and then distribute hard copies of information to those without computers (or without an inclination to use computer conferencing).

Also the question of access for those in areas without ready access to phones -- primarily this would mean areas of Africa. I want to explore finding out about the feasibility of portable satellite dish terminals that could connect via geostationary satellites. I know the person to talk to about this, and will do that this week.

It is definitely feasible to connect TCN with IGC. Bob Loeb of TCN called last week and he had been having conversations with Bill Leland and Geoff Sears about doing this. It turns out both parties thought they were waiting for the other, and I think the UNCED conference may be the impetus that is needed to establish that link, whether it be a generic link, or specific to the conference(s).

Another aspect that I didn't get into with the proposal is its relationship to NGO organizing efforts around UNCED. The meetings I attended at the UN and the briefing at FCNL are an important step towards that, but there are a lot of issues that need to be resolved. Apparently, Chip Lindner announced at the Danube conference that the Center for Our Common Future has "been given the mandate" (by whom?) to organize the parallel conference in Brazil. It is going to be very important to structure things so that there is an inclusive participatory process throughout what develops.

I would be very happy for WCA to be involved, and I welcome suggestions as to the form for that. As you probably know, Richard Jordan and Lisynka were at the meetings in NY. Where do you see the Alliance for Our Common Future fitting in -- is anything happening with that?

By the way, I had another good talk with Peter Thacher on Thursday at the FCNL briefing, and he continues to be very enthusiastic about the suggestions I am developing.

I will keep you posted as things develop.

In the Light, Robert

Date: 05 Apr 90 08:12:00 PST
From: TCN001@DCDTCN.DAS.NET
To: cdp!rpollard
Subject: Response to Proposal

Robert,

I've had a chance to review your proposal and am interested to discuss your ideas further.

The structure for the various conferences your propose is quite easy to implement on TCN and could in fact be integrated with UNISER virtually immediately. It is clear from your description that the distinction I've heard elsewhere between the UNISER "database" function and the "conferencing" function, really doesn't exist. The primary function of what you describe is information dissemination and the structure required is virtually identical to what is already in place with UNISER. Building on the existing base of information in UNISER ought to make it easier to attract users as well.

This does not contradict your notion that users should not be overwhelmed by too much information, and that conferencing dialogue should be controlled so that it does not clutter important information. Such an approach is directly in line with the way we approach networking within the UN through UNISER and other related services. We have a variety of software capabilities that can be applied to specific information functions without affecting any other functions. These can all then be integrated via menus for ease of movement from one function to another.

In this way, each function has it's own integrity, enabling users to seek out just the limited information they want at any given time in the most straightforward way possible. At the same time, menus provide very easy access to any other function, including those that may require different software capabilities or information resources, when and if this is useful. This helps attract the broadest range of users, who may have different needs, in that each can effectively tailor the service in differnt ways for their particular requirements.

As you suggest in line with my comments over the phone, an expanded UNISER service could be made available via a "window" to ECONET (and for that matter, many other networks). We could also import services from ECONET and other networks as desired.

My main question at this point is to understand better who would actually be looking at the conferences you propose and how often. Have you done any more detailed breakdown of the potential user organizations, who within these organizations would actually need the information and why, how many of these organizations have computers and modems, and how many could be expected to user their equipment for this purpose?

Given the fact that the vast majority of what you propose is "read only" information distribution (which is right in line with what Peter Thacher told me), it might also be worth looking at providing at least some of this information in two additional modes so as to assure universal access, unlimited by access to computer technology. This is an area TCN specializes in as our focus is not on computer technology per se, but on the broadest possible access to information.

1. Voice bulletin board
You may want to consider setting up a voice information board to provide wide access to your most up-to-date information for anyone with a telephone. The service could provide a simple menu offering a limited number of audio messages which are updated frequently. Since messages are recorded in a person's real voice, updates from recognizable leaders could have particular impact.

In addition to providing "listen only" access to information, these services can record information from callers (eg. names, addresses, etc) which could be used to send them more information. Similarly, the service could be used to poll caller opinion on specific issues to get feedback from a broad constituency that may not have access to computer technology.

2. Broadcast network
A system could also be set up to broadcast selected hardcopy information simultaneously to any number of individuals/organizations, including those who do not have computers and modems, or who are not on a network like TCN or Econet. Messages could be sent from virtually any pc and could be received via email by those on a network, while other recipients would receive their messages via telex, facsimile, cablegram or mailgram...ie. in whatever medium is appropriate for the equipment they have (or don't have!).

Various distribution lists could be established for automated broadcasting to different groups. The system would be particularly useful for important communications that must be delivered in a timely fashion to everyone in a group, not just those with access to a given technology.

I look forward to talking to you more about these ideas. Let me know what you think the next step is.

Bob [Loeb]

From lassuncao Mon Apr 23 17:36 PDT 1990
To: bleland enzop jpasztor pthatcher rpollard
Subject: Conference on ECONET

NY 23 April

Bill Leland and Bob Pollard,

Further to discussions with Bob Loeb (TCN) and Pollard's proposal submitted to Peter Thacher, we at the UNCED Secretariat are finally in a position to reply to most of pending questions and propose concrete steps to "create" a UNCED electronic read- only conference. (The Secretary General of UNCED, Maurice Strong announced its establishment yesterday at the UN General Assembly.)

First, let's start with the easy ones: we agree with Loeb that the secretariat's information outreach while aiming at reaching the largest number of people should consider using other means such voice bulletins and hardcopy material. However, the Secretary-General is still assembling his staff and we feel these information services will have to wait for when the secretariat is more appropriately staffed.

Nevertheless, we understand that there is already some material that can (and should) be made available at this moment at least via electronic conferences. Moreover, with the cooperation of UN/DPI, TCN, Gemnet, Econet and yourselves we could start providing the preparation process of the 1992 UNCED with some transparency. In reference to an earlier question on who would be using/accessing/demanding such information: I have to tell you that at this very early stage we are already overwhelmed by requests for further and more detailed information on all the UNCED related activities. So, we feel it is time to act (globally by enabling governments, UN agencies, NGO's, individuals to dial locally into some existing material on the UNCED).

P. Thacher, Barabas, UNDP staff and myself have agreed on adopting a phased approach at this stage. Pollard's proposal is seen as ideal, but not realistically attainable before the First Substantive Meeting of the Preparatory Committee to be held in Nairobi on 6-31 August. By then, the secretariat will be physically established in Geneva with its offices in New York and Nairobi operational and with the necessary staff to systematically feed a selection of UNCED conferences (pretty much following Pollard's proposal).

Further to the announcement by Mr. Strong on Earth Day of the secretariat electronic conferencing services, our proposal is to have a read-only conference opened up on TCN with 4 to 5 basic papers with a brief introductory note and index for the sake of clarity. These papers will be available to Loeb, Leland/Pollard and Barabas on Tuesday.

DECISIONS NEEDED from TCN and Econet:

for Loeb (TCN):
What we have to agree with you is in which menu to locate the UNCED conference and how accessible it will be by all TCN users and UN agencies. Ideally, UNCED should be on the "Gateway to UN Agencies" menu. This would enable all TCN users including, I suppose, those that participate exclusively on UNISER or UNET. I believe they all have access to the menu mentioned above and can enter into other options. If not they should be granted access at least to UNCED at this early stage. This alternative would make the UNCED more transparent. The other alternative is to post UNCED on the UNISER menu as a new item, probably as * 4 --UNCED. The user would select 4 and get a brief note with a index of documents listed. In the future, we should be able to create sub-items such as UNCED.Update, UNCED.Schedule, UNCED.docs, etc. If possible, we would like to see UNCED on both menus.

Now, turning to the issue of accessing: I have just tried from an UNDP account to enter into UNISER. I got as far as the menu. No access exist to any UN database (PR, DHL, SPN) or to UN documents. Why? And how much would it cost for a UNDP staff or any UNISER user to have access to all these services? In creating UNCED as a new item on this menu, can it be "open" free of charge at least initially as we have been discussing?

for ECONET:

How soon you can create an initial UNCED conference? I understand from Enzo Puliatti that public conferences can be created rather easily. How much information you are ready to receive this week to open the conference? Can we the conference immediately available to all IGC nodes, namely Alternex, Greenet, Nicarao, Web, etc. If not, how soon?

I would appreciate hearing from you as soon as possible.

Happy Earth Year. Sincerely,

Lucas Assuncao

on TCN: UDP079
on Econet: lassuncao
Tel: 212-963 5726

From bleland Tue Apr 24 00:47 PDT 1990
To: enzop jpasztor lassuncao pthatcher rpollard
Subject: Re: Conference on ECONET

Lucas,

Thanks for your message. I endorse your approach entirely.

As soon as I receive the initial information to be posted to an EcoNet public conference, I will create the conference, ensure that it is networked to our affiliated networks, and post the information in appropriate topics within the conference. We should be able to do this within 24 hours after receiving the information. We suggest that the first topic be a statement which introduces the conference, describing the intent of the conference, what information a user can expect to find, and how they should use the conference and its information.

We are pleased to be working on this in collaboration with you and TCN.

Please let me know if there is anything else I can do.

Regards,
Bill

From lassuncao Tue Apr 24 05:10 PDT 1990
To: bleland enzop rpollard
Subject: FIRST POSTING AT UNCED ELECTRONIC CONFERENCE
Cc: pthatcher

PRESS RELEASE (distributed on Monday 23 April)

Secretary-General of the UN Conference of Environment and
Development establishes Global Electronic Network

On Earth Day 1990 (22 April), the Secretary-General of the United Nations Conference of Environment and Development, Maurice Strong, announced that the Conference Secretariat will be providing to all interested parties electronic accessible information related to the preparatory work for the 1992 UN Conference.

The Secretary-General of the UNCED acknowledged the growing role of electronic data processing and communications and its potential contribution to sustainable development, and announced the beginning of a UNCED "Global Electronic Network" by which the UNCED secretariat will keep all interested parties informed of the preparations for the 1992 Conference.

Using systems that have been developed by the UN Department of Public Information, but on a larger scale than ever before, the UNCED secretariat in Geneva will "post" information on publicly-accessible electronic bulletin boards of the sort being used world-wide in recent years.

Initially, this service will consist of background information --such as the text of pertinent resolutions of the UN General Assembly setting up the 1992 Conference and PrepCom decisions -- as well as information about scheduled meetings and substantive matters concerning the preparatory process, including, for example, relevant statements at the organizational session of the all-nation Preparatory Committee.

As the Secretariat assembles its staff additional information will be routinely posted about upcoming events and documents being prepared for submission to the all-nation Preparatory Committee, which holds its first substantive session in Nairobi starting 6 August. Depending on response, and interest shown, additional categories of information will be supplied electronically in such a way as to encourage the broadest access to electronic "conferencing".

The initial access to this system will be through networks such as Telecommunication Cooperative Network (TCN) and EcoNet which have existing arrangements to enable their members to read material posted by the UN, with special menus being created for matters related to UNCED. The secretariat intends to facilitate access not only by those already accustomed to this technique, but to broaden access throughout the developing regions of the world, and in languages in addition to english. To do this it will take advantage of projects supported by the UN Development Programme (UNDP) to promote affordable access for users in developing countries, and make information available to the UNDP-sponsored "Sustainable Development Network" recently announced by Administrator William Draper.

In coordination with UNDP and IMO, the UNCED Secretariat will also be exploring existing satellite systems, such InmarSat and PeaceSat, to enable access to UNCED electronic conferences by those located in remote areas of the globe where this is otherwise difficult and costly.

Mr. Maurice Strong also said the time has come to explore arrangements for a truly international earth observing satellite system.

HOW YOU CAN USE THIS SERVICE:

Dial Locally, Act Globally

If you have a personal computer, a modem and access through telephone to an electronic network, you can share information, pool resources and be kept abreast of future events related to the UN Conference of Environment and Development to be convened in Brazil in 1992.

What do you need??

1. You need a computer, any brand will work, such as IBM, IBM clone, Apple, MacIntosh, Epson, etc.

2. You need a telecommunications software program (most of them come free-of-charge with your modem) that will run on your computer, allowing you to use a modem (a computer accessory) to make the telephone call.

3. You will need a modem.

Who to contact in order to have access to electronic networks??

4. If you are already have access to TCN via a UN agency, Mission, UN Department, etc., just contact:

Telecommunications Cooperative Network
505 8th Ave., Suite 1805
New York, NY 10018
(212) 714 9780

TCN will give you access to the UNISER menu in which UNCED Bulletin Board are announced.

5. If you are not on TCN, please contact any of the following networks at your convenience. All networks are designed to be easy and quick to use for those who don't know much about computers, and can't spend a lot of time learning about them. All of them also offer user support on the end of a phone during office hours and some evenings.

USA:
Global Education Motivators
Chesnut Hill College
Germantown & Northwestern Avenues.
Philadelphia, PA 19118-2695
(215) 248-1150

or

Peacenet / Econet
3228 Sacramento St.,
San Francisco, California 94115
(415) 923 0900 Fax: (415) 923 1665

UK:
GreenNet
25, Downham Road,
London N1 5AA
Tel: +44 1 923 2624 Fax +44 1 2541102

Canada:
The Web
456 Spadina Avenue, Floor 2,
Toronto, Ontario, M5T 2G8 CANADA.
Tel: +1 (416) 929 0634 Fax: +1 (416) 461 2886

Sweden:
FredsNaetet, (PeaceNet Sweden; NordNet),
Timmermansgrnd 4nb, 116 27 Stockholm, Sweden.
Tel: +46 (8) 7200001 Fax: +46 (8) 7200035

Nicaragua:
Nicarao, CRIES Equipo de Telecomunicaciones,
Apartado postal 3516, Managua, Nicaragua.
Tel: +505 (2) 26228 or +505 (2) 25137 (ext. 5)

Brazil:
Alternex, c/o IBASE,
Rua Vicente de Souza 29,
22510 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Tel: +55 (21) 286 0348

Australia:
Pegasus Networks,
PO Box 201, Byron Bay 2481, Australia.
Tel: +61 (66) 85 7286

6. If you are on any other system please call Econet or TCN for information on gateways to/from your system.

7. Information on local access from other countries can also be obtained from local PTT's.

From lassuncao Sat Apr 28 10:24 PDT 1990
To: pthatcher rpollard
Subject: On Pollard's sugestions
Cc: jpasztor

Dear Bob,

Thanks for your comments and suggestions for further developments related to the en.unced. I definitely support the opening of "affiliated" conferences to enable active interaction among ngo's, interest groups and individuals. That's the idea: to trigger the widest participation possible. At the same time, it's crucial that an official read only is distributed by the UNCED Secretariat to several electronic networks. This will allow for a institutional memory on the 1992 UNCED process and makes it easy- to-join-in by new user at any point in time.

The idea of having the Center for the Common Future as a focal point seems interesting, but access should also be open to any ngo including those from developing countries. So work is needed to make this effective.

Well, I am going to Geneva on Monday for two weeks, come back to New York by May 18 and then move to Geneva by early June for two years. So soon I will be in touch with you possibly through Greenet. In the meantime I believe Peter Thacher will also contact you to comment on your suggestions.

Once again thanks

Lucas Assuncao

To: lassuncao
From: rpollard
Subject: Re: On Pollard's sugestions
CC: jpaztor pthacher

Lucas,

Thanks for your response to my comments.

On the role of the Centre for Our Common Future, I did not mean to imply that they should be the focal point, rather that they need to be involved -- and that they need to get on line. I had talked with Chip about getting on line when he was in Washington in January, and he seemed open, but I sense that he needs some hands on support to overcome an initial resistance to the unfamiliar. Perhaps when you are in Geneva, you could give them a nudge towards getting on line.

The Centre's active involvement in and support for the on-line conferences could be helpful in getting the word out to the large group of NGOs they have been working with in relationship to the Brundtland Report. I also understand that following the Vancouver meetings last month, the Centre perceives itself as having a mandate to play an active role in planning for NGO involvement in 1992. If so, it becomes especially important -- at least from a concern with the inclusiveness of the NGO participation -- that they get the word out via electronic conferencing so that there is widespread awareness of and access to their planning process.

Also, I feel that a lot of the information that the Centre disseminates via the Brundtland Bulletin might be more effectively and timely disseminated via electronic conferencing.

Since sending my response yesterday, I have been thinking a lot more about the need for ways of creating effective access among NGOs to the on-line UNCED information and conferences. It seems that it would be very useful to identify at least one initial organization within each country that would take on the responsibility for downloading and making available that information within the country, as well as getting the word out about the availability of on-line access. I would welcome any thoughts as to which organizations might play such a role in Europe and elsewhere.

I agree with you on the importance of creating access to the read-only conferences on as broad a representation of networks as possible. From my earlier conversations with Bob Loeb of TCN, I got the impression that he may be able to play a significant facilitating role in that step of the process.

I look forward to keeping in touch with you.

Robert

To: lassuncao pthacher beland
From: rpollard
Subject: Re: FIRST POSTING AT UNCED ELECTRONIC CONFERENCE

Dear Lucas, Peter, Bill, Bob and other friends,

It's great to see this electronic conference, EN.UNCED, really happening, and I was very happy to see the press release from Maurice Strong. I look forward to continuing to play an active role in facilitating the development of the evolving set of electronic conferences relating to UNCED.

Lucas, I recognize the need for the official UNCED electronic conferences to be on a read-only basis, however, at the same time -- from an NGO perspective -- I expect to continue to be a strong advocate of participatory opportunities. In response to your question on my facilitating role, I would like to focus most of my effort into developing the participatory component, while continuing to be attentive to optimal ways of structuring the read-only conferences.

It seems that it would be helpful to make clear distinctions between the official read-only conferences of the UNCED Secretariat and the participatory NGO/public conferences. My suggestion is that we reserve the name UNCED for the official conferences, and use UNCED-NGO-IPPCS (for Information, Public Participation & Communication System) for the participatory ones.

As I have addressed in my "United Nations Conference on Environment and Development Electronic Conferencing Proposal" (that I am presuming Peter has forwarded to you), from an NGO perspective, there is a need for an NGO forum to share responses and comments on the official documents that are posted in the read-only conferences; there is a further need for a some kind of representative NGO group to review and synthesize these comments, and disseminate them in an accessible format among the NGO community (however that is defined).

As I noted above, I am interested in developing a set of conferences that would fall under the general title of EN.UNCED-NGO-IPPCS. As you can see from my system of naming in this and my earlier proposal, I have a preference for a hierarchical conference naming system that maintains a fairly narrow focus for each conference area. By the way, Bob, I have not yet got onto TCN to see how your menu system works, but as I have noted elsewhere, that would seem to be an ideal way to manage the type of conference structure that I envision.

EN.UNCED-NGO-IPPCS.DESIGN
An interactive forum for the development and implementation of design criteria for a truly effective Information, Public Participation & Communication System (IPPCS) for UNCED. This would include optimal ways for structuring information access and dissemination; strategies for generating optimal participation; and perhaps inevitably, consideration of some of the economics and politics of information access and participatory decision making processes. This conference would also provide a forum for the exploring the ways that an IPPCS can support sustainable development networks and specific sustainable development opportunities. In essence, this conference would be a continuation and formalization of what has been happening on an informal e-mail basis between many of the people listed at the end of this message.

Incidentally, while the focus would be on developing an IPPCS for UNCED, it would be my hope and expectation that the model and structure we would develop would have applicability in many other settings -- both in other global contexts, as well as in the development of local, regional and national IPPCSs

EN.UNCED-NGO-IPPCS.OUTREACH
Discussion and sharing of experiences, methodologies, and approaches to effective outreach and involvement of a much broader constituency with the UNCED IPPCS. I think we are all mindful that integrated interactive electronic communication systems are still very much in an embryonic state, and that while the ideals of universal access to information may inspire us in our efforts, the fact of the matter is that those of us who actually tap into them are a minuscule -- even though steadily growing -- minority of the world's population.

A focussed effort in this respect, and especially one that is grounded in tangible experience, would be invaluable. In correspondence with me on my proposals for what I am now calling the UNCED IPPCS, Bob Loeb has on several occasions raised questions as to exactly who, and how many, the constituency is. Clearly the NGO community involved in preparations for UNCED is a key element of the constituency; and given the role to date of the Centre for Our Common Future in working with parts of the NGO community, attention certainly needs to be paid to involving the Centre in the IPPCS.

EN.UNCED-NGO-IPPCS.REPORTS
One important step in involving NGOs in the IPPCS is creating a structure for posting NGO documents, with the opportunity for comments and discussion, as well ass disseminating information on NGO meetings that are taking place in [preparation for 1992. Personally, I find it frustrating to receive only hard copy of documents such as, for example, were generated at the Danube NGO conference; not only is it so much easier to disseminate (parts of) such documents in a readable format -- after a few generations, photocopying just doesn't make it, besides the originals tend to be printed in 10 point Courier which is significantly less readable than a Times Roman proportional font; it is also easier to share any response when it is simply a matter of posting it to a conference or to e-mail addresses.

I find that I am much more motivated to respond or comment on such documents, if I know that the response is not just seen by the creator of the document but is accessible to any other interested parties with access to the conference. Besides, I don't believe that I am alone in finding it so much easier to jot down some quick comments on computer and send them via e-mail, than it is to go through the process of printing a letter, making photocopies, making up envelopes, etc.

EN.UNCED-NGO-IPPCS.TRAINING
This conference would focus on the development and compilation of training resources and materials for electronic conferencing in general, and for the UNCED conferences in particular. Initially, this could be subsumed under the OUTREACH sub-conference, but as time develops, I think we would find the need for maintaining it as a separate conference (or sub-conference)

Who are we?
As a firm believer in the value of well developed mailing lists as a tool in effective organizing, I have compiled a list -- alphabetically by EcoNet addresses -- of those who have been participants in the informal conference on the IPPCS, or whose names have been suggested as being a source of valuable contributions. I have taken the liberty of adding people who names are listed as participating in the UNDP.RLA conferences on EcoNet -- as it seems that these conferences have very close parallels with the UNCED conferences, and would benefit from cross-fertilization. Obviously this mailing list is just a beginning, and suggestions are welcome for additional names. Bill (Leland), is it possible to add "UNCED" to the key word listing for these people? Bob, I would especially welcome knowing of key people on TCN who would want to keep up with all of this.

While recognizing that we all tend to wear several hats, as I began to compile a list of who we are, I noticed that we tend to fit into one of three principal groupings: UNCED Secretariat and/or UNDP; Electronic Networks; and non-government organizations. While these groupings may be obvious, I point this out to clarify that there are distinct constituencies even among us, and that we may need to pay attention to the level of participation form each of these groups -- as well as others that should be included. Incidentally, considering these groupings makes it very clear that there is a major task of outreach to the NGO community.

amockler	Anna Mockler; New York University
bleland	Bill Leland; Director of EcoNet
braiford	Bill Raiford, UNDP
clmartinez	Claudia Martinez, UNDP
cmartinez	Carlos Felipe Martinez, UNDP
dialcom:141:tcn001	Bob Loeb; President, Telecommunications Cooperative Network
enzop	Enzo Puliatti; UNDP (and a mentor of Alternex and Nicarao)
etorres	Emma Torres, UNDP
gmarcus	Genevieve Marcus; World Citizens' Assembly
jpasztor	Janos Pasztor; Energy Specialist, UNCED member in charge of Data Information Service, etc.
lassuncao	Lucas Assuncao; Executive Assistant to the Management Committee of the UNCED Secretariat and focal point for the Electronic Network
mclements	Millard Clements; New York University
pthatcher	Peter Thacher; World Resources Institute; Senior Advisor, UNCED Secretariat
rpollard	Robert Pollard; Foundations for a Sustainable Common Future

I have sent a FAX copy of this response, with Maurice Strong's press release and my earlier proposal, to the Quaker United Nations Office in New York for consideration at a Monday meeting of the NGO Development Committee that will be considering next steps for NGOs. I will also be making available pertinent materials on the UNCED IPPCS proposals for an upcoming NGO working meeting "To decide what can and must be done now and who will take responsibility for action in preparation for the 1992 UNCED" that will be held in Washington DC at the Friends Committee on National Legislation on May 17. I am also forwarding a copy of this to the Centre for Our Common Future (FAX:01141227385046)

From jpasztor Mon Apr 30 08:30 PDT 1990
To: rpollard
Subject: UNCED Electronic Network
Cc: enzop lassuncao pthatcher

Robert,

I read with interest your proposal concerning getting the NGO's involved in a two-way process. I very much agree that this is a very important element in the whole preparatory process. I have just a few minor points at this stage:

1. The involvement of the Center for Our Common Future will be essential, although they may not necessarily act as the only focal point. The UNCED secretariat will share the same office building with the Center. This should help considerably our cooperation, and getting the Center on line in terms of electronic conferencing. I will discuss this with Chip Lindner.

2. While getting the NGO input is very important, at this initial stage of the preparations (next 3 months), we must be very careful not to spread ourselves (the very small, and not yet fully formed UNCED secretariat) too thin. We must concentrate our energies to the preparation of the 1st Meeting of the PrepCom in Nairobi (August). This does mean that during the next months we must concentrate on the "official read-only" conference.

3. Having said this, I support your approach of developing a set of conferences, as described in your April 27 memo. I will be pleased to work with you in developing further the different conferences, both in terms of contents and format. A lot of this will depend on how we set up our own (UNCED) Global Environment Information system to feed the preparatory process. Will keep you informed on this.

Best regards
Janos Pasztor