The principle of common but differentiated responsibility in international environmental law

The principle of common but differentiated responsibility is one of the principles of the international environmental law which has evolved from the notion of Common Heritage of mankind. This principle while emphasizing on Common responsibility of States for the protection of Environment stresses on their differentiated responsibilities or commitments. These responsibilities or commitments are defined with regard to Special and different circumstances of each and every state giving rise to environmental problems and the technical and economic capabilities of states for addressing these problems. This principle is recognized in many international document and W.T.O agreements. It has not been characterized as a customary international rule but has an important role to play in development and application of international environmental law by balancing conventional commitments and assistance to the sustainable development of application and assistance to the sustainable development of developing countries.