The second Environmental Performance Review of Romania takes stock of the progress made by Romania in the management of its environment since the country was first reviewed in 2001. It assesses the implementation of the recommendations contained in the first review. This second EPR also covers 10 issues of importance to Romania related to policymaking framework for environmental protection and sustainable development compliance and enforcement mechanisms; monitoring, information, public participation and education; environmental international agreements and commitments and their implementation; economic instruments, expenditures for environmental protection; sustainable management of water resources and protection of the Black Sea; waste management; forestry, biodiversity and protected areas; and climate change. The Environmental Performance Review Programme is considered an important instrument for countries within the UNECE Region. The second round, while taking stock of the progress made since the first cycle of reviews, puts particular emphasis on implementation, integration, financing and the socio-economic interface with the environment. Through the peer review process, EPRs also promote dialogue among UNECE member countries and harmonization of environmental conditions and policies throughout the region. As it is a voluntary exercise, an EPR is undertaken only at the request of the country concerned.