D.4.2: Step-by step methodology with initial criteria for assessment (WP4)

This report aims to provide a step-by step methodology with initial criteria for assessment which will be finalized based on the experiences gained during the implementation of the project in order to obtain a final integrated SEE methodological toolkit for resource efficiency with final SEE criteria for assessment. This core project output will not only serve to support RE-SEEties partners and for the finalisation of their strategies, but the final version will also be transnational, aiming to provide valuable strategic and adaptable guidance for all SEE municipalities regarding how to improve resource efficiency by applying smart strategic measures in city planning. The development of this step-by-step methodology is the outcome of an intensive strategy building process and stakeholder engagement. Strategy building is an iteratory process providing a continuous exchange between the transnational and regional/local levels: the initial criteria will be used to evaluate interim outcomes of partners' strategy building process. In turn, the outcome of strategy building at partners level, i.e. case study profiles and case conclusions, will provide an important contribution to the finalisation of the methodological toolkit, including final SEE criteria for assessment. With the aim of exerting an influence on policy-making at all levels, the final version of this transnational output will include policy recommendations for programming, using the feedback of key EU stakeholders. The proposed "toolkit" aims to support the step-by-step assessment for creating a highly efficient and sustainable resource efficient future of municipalities promoting the development of coherent and appropriate planning practices across SEE, in compliance with the requirements of the relevant EU legislation. The initial step-by-step methodology and criteria for assessment is elaborated by CNR-IMAA as output responsible, supported by CRES, REGEA, Energiaklub and MACEF, as members of the assessment and support group (ASG). This approach is reflected in the organization of this report, which integrates in the toolkit competences and efforts of all the ASG partners. Focus areas and key contributors of the proposed methodological toolkit for RE-SEEties are represented in Figure 1. This report starts from an overview of the policy making context (Chapter 1), summarizing some of the best practices and technologies available in different sectors (Chapter 2). Chapter 3 focuses on the key issues of changing behaviour of selected target groups whereas more technical aspects are under consideration of Chapter 4, focusing on the main data gathered by city partners and the proposed tools (software) selected by the ASG and utilized at urban level to support the definition of resource efficient strategies. Last but not least, Chapter 5 describes the overall set of initial criteria for assessment which will be customized by each city partner in order to measure, monitor and report their pathways towards resource efficiency.