This is an issue well recognized in the Rio Declaration on Environment and Development, which includes a provision on guaranteeing citizens’ rights to information, participation and environmental justice (principle 10) (see box IV. In the context of climate change, new tools for engaging stakeholders in the design of climate impact assessments and consideration of policy options are emerging, including at the local level as discussed in chapter III. At the national level, each individual shall have appropriate access to information concerning the environment that is held by public authorities, including information on hazardous materials and activities in their communities, and the opportunity to participate in decision-making processes. States shall facilitate and encourage public awareness and participation by making information widely available.