Stage 3 - Defining Goals

Before proceeding to promote innovation, we have to ask what are the objectives of the authority and what are the main issues or challenges?

To this end, define clear, measurable sustainability goals that are aligned with the authority's vision. It is important to refer as much as possible to global goals, such as the UN's sustainable development goals (international initiatives can help you here).

If the authority has goals, this is an opportunity to apply the principles of flexibility and adaptation, and innovation and examine again how well they meet current needs and perhaps there is room to update them.

When defining the goals and objectives, it is important to pay attention to the following elements:

Define ambitious but realistic goals and objectives - our experience shows that authorities mobilized to promote environmental issues succeed in meeting the goals they set for themselves and beyond. For this purpose, it is possible to use the goals as defined in international initiatives, with adjustments to local needs and character.

Address as wide a variety of topics as possible and thus apply the principle of sustainability and reciprocity - under the umbrella of sustainability there are a variety of topics - from energy and infrastructure to green planning, environmental education and even the degree of tolerance. After mapping the topics, examine how they affect each other. The approach taken by the City of London is a good example of this.

Involve all the stakeholders and make them part of the design of the goals and objectives - here again the principle of diversity and reciprocity comes into play - cooperation between the professionals of the authority or on its behalf, together with stakeholders such as representatives from the local community - can contribute to the establishment of the goals and having great public support for them.

After defining the goals and objectives, you are ready for the next step - implementing a work plan