Implementation of national strategy for sustainable development : achievements and problems

Abstract

Results of the first biennial report on implementation of National Strategy for Sustainable Development are presented. There decoupling of environmental impact from fast economic growth is considered as one of the most important tasks from the point of sustainability for the new Eastern EU member states. The indicators of energy, pollution, and labour intensity are compared in Lithuania and EU15 countries. An essential progress in reduction of energy intensity during the last 15 years is emphasized, however approximately 2-2.5 times higher, to compare with EU15 countries, pollution and labour intensity are considered as very important problems of Lithuania's development. Changes in different indicators of sustainability are analysed and the main achievements and problems in environmental, economic, and social sectors are highlighted. It is concluded, that strengthening in governance of sustainability process, wider public participation, and deeper scientific investigations are necessary for successful implementation of National Strategy for Sustainable Development.