Agenda 21 is a blueprint for sustainable development into the 21st Century. Its basis was agreed during the "Earth Summit" at Rio in 1992, and signed by 179 Heads of State and Government.
Agenda 21 is a guide for individuals, businesses and governments in making choices for development that help society and the environment. Agenda 21 is a huge document, with 40 chapters in 4 sections. It deals with:
1. Social and economic dimensions;- developing countries; poverty; consumption patterns; population; health; human settlements; integrating environment and development.
2. Conservation and management of resources:- atmosphere; land; forests; deserts; mountains; agriculture; biodiversity; biotechnology; oceans; fresh water; toxic chemicals; hazardous radioactive and solid waste and sewage.
3. Strengthening the role of major groups:- women; children and youth; indigenous peoples; non-governmental organisations; local authorities; workers; business and industry; farmers; scientists and technologists.
4. Means of implementation:- finance; technology transfer; science; education; capacity-building; international institutions; legal measures; information.
The number 21 refers to the 21st century.
Action 21 refers to action we are taking, to implement this agenda for the 21st century, in our local community.
