As an expert in environmental policy and international summits, I have a deep understanding of the historical context and outcomes of significant global gatherings. The term "Earth Summit" typically refers to a pivotal event in the history of environmental and developmental policy-making.

The Earth Summit, formally known as the **United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED)**, was indeed a landmark conference that took place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from 3 to 14 June 1992. It was a major global event that brought together representatives from various nations to address pressing environmental and developmental challenges. The summit was also commonly referred to as the Rio de Janeiro Earth Summit, the Rio Summit, the Rio Conference, and in Portuguese, ECO92.

The conference aimed to reconcile worldwide economic development with the protection of the environment. It was the largest gathering of world leaders at that time, with **117 heads of state and representatives of 178 nations** attending. The summit resulted in several key agreements and documents that have had a lasting impact on international environmental policy. These include the Rio Declaration on Environment and Development, Agenda 21, a comprehensive plan of action for sustainable development, and the Statement of Principles on Forests.

One of the most significant outcomes of the Earth Summit was the establishment of the **United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)**, which set the stage for future agreements to combat climate change, including the Kyoto Protocol and the Paris Agreement. Additionally, the summit led to the Convention on Biological Diversity, which sought to promote biodiversity conservation, the sustainable use of its components, and the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the use of genetic resources.

The Earth Summit also highlighted the interdependence of social, economic, and environmental factors, emphasizing the need for an integrated approach to development that addresses these dimensions in a balanced manner. It recognized that sustainable development is an attainable goal for all, regardless of the level at which it is pursued—local, national, regional, or international.

Despite its successes, the summit was not without challenges. There were disputes between wealthier industrialized nations and poorer developing countries, with the latter group often reluctant to adopt environmental restrictions that could hinder their economic growth. Developing countries argued for increased financial aid from the North to facilitate environmentally sound growth.

The legacy of the Earth Summit continues to influence global environmental policy and sustainable development efforts. It serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to protect the environment while pursuing economic and social progress.

In conclusion, the last Earth Summit, as commonly referred to, was held in 1992. It was a seminal event that shaped the course of international environmental and developmental cooperation. The outcomes of the summit continue to be relevant and are built upon in current and future agreements and initiatives aimed at achieving a sustainable future for our planet.

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The Earth Summit was a UN event. The United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED), also known as the Rio de Janeiro Earth Summit, the Rio Summit, the Rio Conference, and the Earth Summit (Portuguese: ECO92), was a major United Nations conference held in Rio de Janeiro from 3 to 14 June 1992.read more >>