Agenda 21 for sustainable construction in developing countries: a discussion document

Abstract

This discussion document “Agenda 21 for sustainable construction in developing countries” represents both a sector response and a developing country response to the challenge of sustainable development. It builds on the principles of the UN Agenda 21 formulated at the Earth Summit in Rio and is published as a contribution to the Johannesburg World Summit on Sustainable Development. The aim of this document is to provide a research and development agenda and strategy for action for construction in developing countries. This document is especially significant as it represents an important step in the empowerment of developing countries, providing as it does an agenda that was prepared entirely by experts from developing countries to answer to the specific needs and challenges of developing countries. That is, to provide developing country answers to developing country problems. However, in an interconnected and interdependent world, the Agenda 21 for Sustainable Construction in Developing Countries does not concern developing countries alone, but also offers guidance to developed countries in their pursuit of sustainability, as well as opportunities for mutually beneficial partnerships.