Growing places for life

This report explores how local practice can develop to meet the combined vision of Agenda 21 and Health 21, two internationally negotiated frameworks for action supporting sustainable development. It looks at how local community action can address the twin concerns of health and environment based on the experiences pf people involved in ten local initiatives in England, Scotland and Wales. After a brief introduction, key recommendations are made to institutions and organisations regarding their role in sustainable development and in the implementation of the two frameworks. The recommendations are specifically directed at the UK government; the New Opportunities Fund; other funding bodies; health promotion agencies; the environmental voluntary sector; local government; primary care groups and co-ops; and church and faith organisations. The research project leading up to this report is presented and put into a historical international and national context. Some of the qualities of the included initiatives are listed and discussed briefly such as: working æoutside of the boxÆ, holding the vision and taking many small steps, organic development, access to professionals, partnerships, creativity, equality, personal growth and learning, networking, encouraging community participation, and beliefs, values and principles. The project profiles of the ten initiatives are then presented.