Sustainable development of European cities and regions

Book abstract:

This book presents the scientific and methodological findings of more than two years of research within SUDECIR: Sustainable Development of European Cities and Regions. Sustainable development has been the basic goal of the European Union since the Treaty of Amsterdam. After an in-depth analysis of the concept, this 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.

This book, part of the 'Environment & Policy' series, presents an entirely new and innovative system for sustainability planning, based on the interdependence of 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 from the very beginning.

In spite of the fundamental approach, the system has been guided throughout by practical applicability and realism and 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.

The chapters are: Introduction; Sustainable development: a well-defined political concept; Sustainable development: from the global to the local level; Criteria and indicators for regional sustainable development; City-hinterland relationships; Methodology for regional sustainability planning; SUDECIR in practice - the industrial complex of the Feldbach region; SUDECIR in practice - the Trier region; SUDECIR in practice - the tourism on the island of Rhodes; Lessons from the case studies; Cities, regions and the European Union; Highlights, conclusions and recommendations.

The book is essential reading for all those involved in urban and regional sustainable development.