garbage and pollutants. The "polluter pays principle" should be implemented to provide correct maLrket signals. The use of some scarce natural resources is currently subsidized by Governments. A "user pays principle" should instead be considered in such are,as, provided that there are no overriding social or economic considerations. The ECE countries should study the effects of the extensive use of environmental taxes. Established frameworks of laws and enforced environmental regulations arei the basic preconditions for the use of economic instruments. Impacts on relative competitive conditions should be dealt with through cl co-ordinated approach, To avoid economic and competitive distortions, ECE countries should adopt a co-ordinated approach in developing economic instrumeints. (c) Efforts to supplement current national income accounting systems to reflect the importance of natural resources as depletable or renewable economic assets are laudable, but should be tempered by an awareness that it is not pos1sible to translate all environmental values into monetary terms, Therefore, we shot1ld encourage development of internationally compatible environmental indicators. Methodologies should be developed for calculating both the benefits and costs when estimating various environmental protection programmes. (d) Studies should be undertaken to review the extent to which existing or emerging patterns of natural resource property rights create or reinforce obstacles to greater efficiency, equity and sustainability in resource use. (e) Multilateral development banks need to consider effective financial mechanisms that promote sustainable development. These approaches should pay specific attention to the conservation of critical ecosystems in developing countries. ECE member States and non-governmental organizations should stimulate discussions to define a frame of reference and appropriate mechanisms for addressing these needs. In addition, funding mechanisms should address priority global problems, such as greenhouse gas build-up, ozone depletion, threats to global commons or loss of biological diversity, their consequences or causes. I • • • A/CONF.151/PC/10 English 
**Analysis**
This text appears to be discussing the economic and environmental implications of resource use and conservation. It mentions the use of economic instruments, such as taxes and subsidies, to promote sustainable development and environmental protection. The text also touches on the importance of accounting for natural resources in national income systems and the need for international cooperation to address global environmental challenges.

**Category**
Natural resources and environment, Economic development