Sustainability issues in settlements in the Gyöngyös Micro-region

Baják, Imre – Törcsvári, Zsolt

Keywords: sustainability, sustainability strategy, local level, Municipal Governments, NGOs

The study was aimed at identifying solutions, ways of implementation, controversies and obstacles of sustainability at the local level (in a micro-region or settlement). Results from the questionnaire used indicated that both Municipal Governments and the population were lacking information and initiative. Sustainability is not currently being treated in accordance with its significance at the governmental and local levels either in Hungary, with the national strategy completed only in 2007. In the absence of guidance and case studies, Municipal Governments are in the dark, and citizens are not aware of the importance of the international initiative either. Legislation only states that local authorities may participate in drawing up such strategies, but does not set forth duties or expectations. Non-governmental organisations are not putting forward initiatives either, as democratic traditions in Hungary are humble and environmental issues are a low priority for citizens in general. It is encouraging that municipal governments already possess a portion of the components required to draw up strategies. It is recommended to revise the legal framework, prepare and promote guidance and case studies, and placing a greater emphasis on communicating the government’s commitment to local sustainability. We need legislation which contains feasible and compulsory requirements both on the governmental and on the local level.

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