This book examines how governments in industrialized countries have engaged with the challenge of sustained development over the past decade. Analysis of initiatives undertaken by nine national governments and the European Union reveal important differences in the ways the international commitment to sustainable devolopment has been received.

This book examines how governments in industrialized countries have engaged with the challenge of sustained development over the past decade. Analysis of initiatives undertaken by nine national governments and the European Union reveal important differences in the ways the international commitment to sustainable devolopment has been received.

Agenda 21 of the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development called for the participation and cooperation of local authorities in support of its economic, social and environmental goals. This title emphasizes the diversity and inventiveness of local initiatives since the Rio 'Earth Summit' within different national settings.

'THIS IS ESSENTIAL READING for all those who want to see that what they do, in rising to the challenge of Rio, draws properly on the experience of others and therefore makes their contribution all the more effective.' from the Foreword by JOHN GUMMER MP former secretary of State for the Environment 'An essential guide to how global agreements are being implemented at a local level. Sometimes people question whether global agreements impact on their lives. This book answers with a firm 'YES'.' FELIX DODDS UNED-UK Coordinator Agenda 21 of the United Nations Conference on Environment and...