Sustainable development has been the basic goal of the European Union
since the Treaty of Amsterdam. After an in-depth analysis of the
concept, the book goes on to translate the concept into practicable and
tangible opportunities for urban and regional sustainable development.
Extensive lists of criteria and indicators have been developed for
additional explanation and support. An entirely new and innovative
system for sustainability planning is presented, based on the
interdependence of the cities and their `hinterlands' and on the
conviction that the development of one or more key sectors usually has a
better potential for success than striving for overall sustainability
planning right from the start.
Although the approach itself is fundamental, it has been guided
throughout by practical applicability and realism. It has been tested in
case studies in a number of European regions, with agriculture and
forestry, small and medium sized industries, and tourism as key sectors.
Detailed guidelines are given on how to apply the methodology in
practice, how to embed existing practices within it, and how to manage
the indispensable stakeholder participation. The chapter on European
Union policies, activities and possible sources of funding completes the
work.
Readership: Required reading for all those involved in urban and
regional sustainable development.