ABSTRACT
This chapter summarizes the information requirements, analyses, and planning and information processes necessary for proper local environmental management. Traditionally, local environmental management consisted of water, domestic wastewater, solid waste, land use, and recreation planning. A number of socioeconomic factors are important in determining the location, nature, and extent of development. Local governments are the weak link in the intergovernmental environmental management framework because of underutilization by higher levels of government and a lack of technical skills and funding. Communities can take an additive or a comprehensive approach in incorporating environmental considerations into local planning processes. Environmental planning and management involves, then, the integration of urban and environmental systems. The major features of a local environmental plan design and implementation are: land use plan, resource plan, the residuals plan and plan implementation. There are several advantages and disadvantages associated with public participation in environmental planning and management.
