Over the last two decades, the UNECE Committee on Sustainable
Energy has developed a number of international agreements,
basically classifications and codifications in the field
of coal
and gas. The current programme is now being enlarged by
initiating new normative projects related to the harmonization
of national and regional regulations and specifications
in the field of energy and environment, energy use and equipment
and energy efficiency.
- The UN Framework Classification for Solid Fuels and Mineral Reserves/Resources
(1997) is an internationally acceptable scheme, acknowledged worldwide,
which will enhance communication on a national and international level,
provide a framework for evaluating the existing reserves/resources
on a common market-oriented basis and make investment in solid fuels
and mineral commodities safer and more attractive. This normative document
was approved by ECOSOC and recommended for worldwide implementation.
At present, the UN Framework Classification is upon approval as
a national standard in different countries in Europe, Asia, Latin America
and Africa.
- The International Codification System for Low-grade Coal Utilization
(2002). The Codification System will be a helpful tool for coal users
in selecting different types of solid fuels and optimizing the combustion
process in thermal power sector.
- The UNECE International Codification System for Medium and High
Rank Coals (1988)
- The UNECE Uniform Code of Draught Survey and Equipment Specifications
for Determining the Weight of Bulk Coal Cargoes (1992). The Code harmonizes
some procedures and practices in the international seaborne coal trade.
- The International Classification of Dynamic Phenomena in Mines (1994)
helps managers and researchers in the mine safety aspects to forecast
and prevent the gas dynamic phenomena in underground coal mines.
- The UNECE International Classification System of Coals in Seam (1998)
determines the procedure of some geological operations related to coal
seam evaluation.
- The Glossary of Natural Gas Reserves (1996) is to enhance communication
and understanding of terms and definitions related to the gas exploration,
exploitation and economics.
- Harmonization of the Energy Efficiency Standards and Labelling Systems.
This is expected to promote the energy efficient technology in households
and services and enhance technology transfer to economies in transition.
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