PROJECT DESCRIPTION
BACKGROUND
In 1990, Leicester was designated Britain¿s first Environment City. The award recognised both Leicester¿s good track record on environmental issues and its commitment towards the goal of local sustainability. To promote sustainable development, the Environment City project demanded new thinking, new priorities and new ways of working. In particular, as the problems it addressed are created by the combined actions of individuals and organisations across the City, it placed great emphasis on organisations working together in partnership. The goal of this project was to work with statutory bodies, businesses, voluntary organisations and individuals to assist in the identification and implementation of practical and achievable projects that would move Leicester towards a model of sustainable urban development. Following the beginning of LIFE support in 1992, the project worked towards seven main objectives: to create partnership and alliances for sustainable development; to research and disseminate good environmental practice; to share experience through networks and lobby for change; to develop practical Environment City projects; to develop a strategic (Local Agenda 21) vision for Leicester; to develop a local promotional campaign to raise environmental awareness; and to monitor progress towards sustainability. As the Environment City initiative in Leicester progressed, new projects were applied. For instance, the role of the Specialist Working Groups (theme-based) changed as experience was gained of their strengths and weaknesses, and Local Agenda 21 provided opportunities to experiment with ways of gaining greater public involvement in decision making. Hence, as well as change on the ground, the Environment City Project has led to a much improved understanding of the process of change.