Network mission
To help professionals involved in development planning share innovative approaches for integrating sustainable development into plans, strategies and budgeting processes at national, sub-national and local levels.

Types of Approaches and Tools to be shared

The network will focus on approaches that facilitate forward-looking analysis and adaptive strategy-making and identify important linkages and trade-offs among economic, social and environmental issues. Examples of approaches include, but are not limited to: the use of scenario outlooks for long-term planning; indicator information systems to measure progress towards improved quality of life and sustainability; integrated assessment techniques such as sustainability assessment and integrated policy appraisal; creation and operation of multi-stakeholder councils and advisory groups; and innovative financing mechanisms such as payment for ecological goods and services.

Network Participants

Persons from national governments who are responsible for developing and coordinating national development plans and strategies, including planning and finance departments, as well as environment, natural resources, education, health, and community development
Persons from sub-national and local governments, including city officials, who are responsible for developing and coordinating development plans and strategies
Persons from organizations who have a mandate and interest in advancing approaches for integrating sustainable development into decision-making

Network Activities

Host bi-monthly internet-based learning events on specific tools and approaches used by network participants and in other countries around the world
Moderate email correspondence among participants to share new practices and questions posed by participants
Share best practices with other similar networks worldwide
Conduct targeted research on specific tools and approaches of interest to network participants
Coordinate and host an annual conference featuring tools and approaches for integrating sustainable development into national plans, strategies and budgeting processes