What is Agenda 21?

 

Agenda 21 is a global action plan for the 21st Century which was drawn up by over 170 nations at the Rio Earth Summit in 1992 to tackle global environmental and economic problems. Some of these issues which need to be addressed are global warming, the decline of wildlife species, poverty and using up non-renewable resources.

 

Agenda 21 recognises that the quality of life is bound up with the quality of the environment. This means that social, economic and environmental issues are linked and must be addressed together. As well as looking at traditional environmental issues, Agenda 21 also considers issues such as equal rights for the disabled, health and employment.

 

Agenda 21 is a process that aims for sustainable development for the 21st century. Sustainable development is a way of improving our quality of life today so that we don't use up the earth's resources and destroy the environment for the next generation.

 

 

Local Agenda 21 is about involving local communities in drawing up action plans for the future based on issues which are considered important in working towards a sustainable environment. The Council is already working with its many partners towards improving standards of living whilst protecting and enhancing the Borough's environment.

 

 

The Council has an important part to play in delivering local sustainability. This is because many of its functions are concerned with enhancing the environment and the associated social and economic benefits. However, the Council does not want to dominate the debate and cannot make significant progress without the support and assistance of those who live and work in the Borough. The Council would wish to support and enable other groups to progress important issues for the future. Local Agenda 21 is an opportunity for you to stress the things that are important and change those which need changing. It needs the skills and energies of different people to make sure it happens.