Creating a sustainable and resource efficient future: A methodological toolkit for municipalities

Translating resource efficiency into practical European, national and local policy frameworks which integrate the various economic, social and environmental components passes through short to long term visions, strategies as well as measurable targets. The RE-SEEties project was funded by the South East Europe programme in order to contribute to the resource efficiency challenge.The project investigated on energy consumption and waste production and disposal; potential changes in consumption patterns and how policy making alternatives may support the achievement of resource efficiency targets. This paper aims to present the main results of this unique international cooperative experience carried out by research centres and municipalities in the South East Europe area. First, the paper focuses on the methodological toolkit and criteria for assessment which aims to support municipalities increating a sustainable and resource efficient future through coherent and appropriate planning practices. Second, the paper discusses the main result sobtained and lessons learned on a wide range of interrelate dissues covering the policy making process, financing of local resource-efficiency investments, good practices, tools to support decision-making and assessment methodologies. It also covers behavioural change and how policy can stimulate public authorities, companies and citizens to become more sustainable.