ABSTRACT
Definitions of sustainable development differ. As the introductory chapter has already suggested, such a lack of uniformity is perhaps welcome: to be effective, the concept must be informed by local context as much as by universal ideals. Inevitably, the practical implementation of sustainable development principles varies as well. Some countries have instituted a system of high profile plans and strategies, others have left core precepts to be developed by local groups; many have undertaken a combination of the two. Few, however, have implemented visionary or demanding laws.
