REGIONAL REPORT Colombia/Venezuela

Abstract

This report examines the impact that the petroleum industry has had on the Colombian-Venezuelan border region. It provides an outline of the various environmental issues raised by the petroleum industry's presence along the border. The report explores both unilateral and bilateral attempts to confront the negative environmental impacts posed by the petroleum indus try. These efforts include public policy measures such as bilateral agreements on protecting the border environment, domestic environmental protection plans, and legal provisions. It shows how current attempts to curtail the environmental impact may be expanded, both on a unilateral and bilateral basis, in order to establish a better framework for environmental protection. Finally, the report provides a list of feasible recommendations that may be implemented to provide for more effective environmental protection.