Enabling Factors Promoting Local Initiatives for Sustainable Consumption in Asia: Potential Roles of Local Governments

This chapter focuses on the roles local governments can play in formulating and implementing local initiatives which contribute to sustainable consumption. Many case studies are included, with the analysis focusing on the enabling factors for promoting these local initiatives.

• Examples of local initiatives for SC can be found in a variety of countries and sectors in Asia. Common success factors include proactive facilitation of stakeholder engagement by local governments or others; responsiveness to local issues and concerns; support by local government leaders, especially mayors; and external support from national governments, international organisations, or NGOs.

• Mayors and other senior local government leaders should take the initiative to facilitate stakeholder involvement, and mobilise resources within and outside of local governments. Even simple encouragement of working level officials or other stakeholders can be helpful.

• Relevance to local issues is especially important for project success. Even local governments themselves may need to pay more attention to this. Stakeholder consultation is very important for gaining their understanding of local relevance, and facilitation, in turn, is important for effective consultation.