The OECD has been working on water policy reform in the countries of Eastern Europe, the Caucasus and Central Asia for over 20 years. Three of the countries within the region, Georgia, the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine have signed Association Agreements with the European Union.

Since the 1990’s, the countries of Eastern Europe, the Caucasus and Central Asia (EECCA) have made great progress in pursuing economic development that is also environmentally sustainable. The countries, in collaboration with the GREEN Action Task Force hosted by the OECD, has developed a number of policies aiming to improve environmental quality and social well-being, while creating opportunities for strong economic growth and decent jobs in the region.

The studies contained in this volume demonstrate that despite the economic crisis, there still is much potential in this region and that the measures that need to be taken to realise that potential are feasible and affordable.

This report analyzes future energy market options for Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) program members. It aims to facilitate strategic decisions and sustainable investments in energy infrastructure by equipping investors and policy makers with crucial insights on regional trends. It can help identify potential investment opportunities that will improve energy services and reduce carbon emissions across CAREC countries. The report provides forecasts at both individual country and regional levels. It includes energy supply and demand scenarios, assessments of innovative technologies, estimates of investment needs in the energy sector, and possible trajectories for carbon emissions.

While plastics are extremely useful materials for modern society, plastics production and waste generation continue to increase with worsening environmental impacts despite international, national and local policy responses, as well as industry commitments. The first of two reports, this Outlook intends to inform and support policy efforts to combat plastic leakage.