The Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) was established as part of the Kyoto Protocol in 1997. It is one of the "flexibility mechanisms" created to enable more cost-effective meeting of mitigation targets. The CDM-study will evaluate possible techniques for assessing the achievements of sustainable development, whilst evaluating the most likely trade barriers for the implementation of the CDM and identify options to overcome such barriers. One of the key issues in the design of the CDM is that of transactions costs. Transactions costs are important as they may significantly affect the implementation of the CDM, particularly in relation to small-scale projects. THe role of regional environmental centres and the potential for their creation in selected countries will be evaluated. The countries for the analysis will be India, Morocco, Phillipines, Senegal, Bolivia, Moldova and Samoa.