Clear objectives were set at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro in 1992 for local authorities to prepare, implement and monitor a Local Agenda 21 (LA21): a strategic programme, plan or policy for achieving sustainable development locally, derived through consultation with citizens and relevant local stakeholders. Sustainable Communities in Europe presents detailed research into the participation and involvement of local communities in 11 European countries. Overviews of implementation in each country are accompanied by comparative analysis of positive and negative changes to date. Useful examples of best practice case studies are provided, and crucial barriers to achieving sustainability are highlighted. This most broad-based and systematic study of LA21 ever produced offers important lessons and suggestions for the future which will be invaluable in preparations for the forthcoming Earth Summit 2002 to be held in Johannesburg.