Background
What is Clearing-House Mechnism?

     Pursuant to article 18.3 of the convention, Clearing-House mechanism has been established to promote and facilitate scientific and technical cooperation.
Clearing-House mechanism specified in article 18.3 of the CBD, in accordance with the objective of the Intergovernmental Committee for CBD, means a transfer mechanism helping promote and facilitate scientific and technological cooperation.

Development of Clearing- House Mechanism
     Clearing-House Mechanism, according to COP 2 decision II/3 (4), should be established:
   Starting with a pilot phase for 1996-1997;
   Through specific and focused areas of activities related to the promotion of international technical and scientific cooperation;
   By gradually building up its functions in response to clear and identified demand based on experience gained and resources available;
   In a neutral, transparent, cost-effective, efficient and accessible manner;
   As a decentralized mechanism using such resources as print and electronic media, including the Internet;
   By making full use of existing facilities, which will avoid any duplication or overlap of activities and allow for the early implementation of the mechanism;
   In close cooperation with relevant international organizations and entities as active partners in the clearing-house mechanism to maximize the existing experience and expertise;
   By enhancing networking between existing national, regional, sub-regional and international centres of relevant expertise, as well as governmental and non-governmental institutions and the private sector