BRAZIL RESPONSE TO METHYL BROMIDE EXEMPTION DEMARCHE

UNCLAS BRASILIA 002228 SIPDIS SIPDIS PLEASE PASS TO STATE OES/ENV SGARDNER E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: SENV AORC EAGR ETRD BR SUBJECT: BRAZIL RESPONSE TO METHYL BROMIDE EXEMPTION DEMARCHE REF: STATE 176797 ¶1. Scioff delivered reftel's talking points to Otavio Trindade of the Ministry of External Relation's Division for Environmental Policy and Sustainable Development. In response to the points, Trindade stated that the GoB would take the USG's request under consideration, but pointed out that Brazil's final decision will hinge on consensus with the GRULAC (Group of Latin American and Caribbean Countries). Brazil, he noted, does not produce methyl bromide and will ban its use in 2007, as the country has developed a variety of alternatives. Therefore, Brazil's position at the MOP (Meeting of the Parties) will be one of principal; although, he explained, many other developing countries in the GRULAC do not have access to high-priced alternatives and still require methyl bromide use. ¶2. During the conversation, Trindade explained that Brazil's overarching goal at the MOP is to pass a motion for the multi-lateral fund to undertake a study project supporting the collection and disposal of antiquated ODS-containing refrigerators. Endorsing this study might provide leverage and garner GRULAC support for the USG's CUE. SOBEL