International Standards and Strategies for the Reduction of Land Consumption 

Targets, Indicators and Monitoring Concepts

SURFACE

Land consumption, meaning the unrestrained utilization of yet undeveloped areas for residential and transport purposes, comes along with many negative ecological, economic and social consequences. Because of its complex causes and creeping development, land consumption is one of the most persistent environmental problems and implementation of effective policy measures is impeded by both lacking public recognition and acceptance of policy interventions.

Within SURFACE, the issue of land consumption and public policies to avoid its negative consequences will be analyzed systematically in an international context. There are two main questions:

  • Which objectives and instruments for the reduction of land consumption exist in the selected countries?
  • What kind of indicator sets and monitoring concepts are suitable and feasible for land consumption?

The results shall stimulate mutual exchange and promote efforts to reduce land consumption in Germany and Europe.

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