In the Rio Declaration, the principle of 'common but differentiated responsibilities' was accepted. It meant-

The special needs of the developing countries must be taken into count in interpretation of international environmental law.

The correct answer is Option (2) → The special needs of the developing countries must be taken into count in interpretation of international environmental law.

• The Rio Declaration (1992) on Environment and Development introduced the principle of “common but differentiated responsibilities” (CBDR).

• It recognizes that:

  • All states share responsibility for protecting the environment (common).

  • But developed countries (North), having contributed more to environmental degradation and possessing greater resources, should bear a greater share of responsibility (differentiated).

• This principle ensures that the special needs and circumstances of developing countries (South) are considered when interpreting and applying international environmental law.