In the first sentence of the Marrakesh Agreement establishing the World Trade Organization (WTO), WTO Members recognize the objective of sustainable development and protection and preservation of the environment. To date, however, the trade and environmental spheres have remained largely separate. This discussion will consider the current WTO structure, rules and jurisprudence in offering a view on how trade can better contribute to the climate change response. It will also consider potential opportunities for new rules to be developed at the organisation as part of the broader negotiations and WTO reform discussions underway.

Professor Gabrielle Marceau, PhD, is Senior Counsellor in the Legal Affairs Division of the WTO Secretariat. She joined the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) Secretariat in September 1994. Her main function is to advise panellists in WTO disputes, the Director-General's Office, the Secretariat and WTO Members on WTO-related matters.