ABSTRACT
The Bandwidth-instrument was developed in three stages. Firstly, the method was developed as a theoretical framework in which the quality of a plan with regard to sustainability was operationalised. Secondly, all relevant aspects were defined as measurable or countable indicators. Thirdly, methods to measure were selected or developed. At last, the process of optimisation between aspects was described. Scores have to be evaluated against aims and acceptable values. In behalf of the balance the local authority has to make, for every indicator a so-called bandwidth is determined. This bandwidth is represented between a limiting value and a reference value. The bandwidth is plotted on the vertical axis: the reference value on top and the limiting value at the bottom. 'Bandwidth' is meant to be an instrument to optimise the introduction of environmental goals as well as to inform citizens and administrators about the quality of a plan with respect to sustainability.
