This monograph was prepared with the assistance of many people. First and foremost I would like to thank Jerry Velasquez, Programme Coordinator of the Global Environment Information Center (GEIC) and the project leader of the joint research initiative that has led to the conclusion of this volume. Without his professionalism and energy this research would not have been possible.

I wish to express my appreciation to those participating in the brainstorming sessions that led to the initiation of this project. From the first session held at the UNU/IAS with the Ph.D. Fellows and Research Associates, I would like to thank Glen Pauletto who was instrumental in putting together the proposal and conceptualizing the project. From the Bonn session held as a Special Event during the UNFCCC Subsidiary Meetings, I would like to thank the many participants, particularly Heike Schroeder who was of great assistance in organizing the meeting and Gary Sampson for his advice and support.

The output for this volume was done in less than 6 months under a hectic pace in time for the Fourth Session of the Conference of the Parties to the UNFCCC. In this regard, I would like to thank the authors for completing their contributions in such a short time and the staff and associates from the UNU Centre, UNU/IAS and GEIC for working under the given time constraints. This includes Ms Lynn Rutherford who tirelessly worked on the English editing and formatting; Ms Miho Komiyama who continues to lend invaluable support to the IAS Environment and Multilateral Diplomacy Project as an academic assistant; and Ms Yoko Kobayashi from GEIC who worked long hours assisting Jerry and I throughout this project.

I would also like to express my gratitude to the Senior UNU Faculty Members for supporting this project. Dr. Juha Uitto, Senior Programme Officer of the UNU Environment and Sustainable Development Programme, who saw the potential for collaboration between the UNU Centre, GEIC and UNU/IAS and gave his continual guidance, encouragement and support.

Lastly, I would like to thank Professor Tarcisio Della Senta whose vision and drive continues to inspire the researchers and staff at the UNU/IAS.