Agenda 21 has changed the Real Estate Development Industry

For 20 years, the real estate development industry has been indoctrinated by policies and regulations imposed at all levels of government. What is the root of this subtle change to our industry?

Become informed and read or pass on my blog series on Agenda 21 and it’s far reaching influence into our local communities. Our real estate development industry has always been locally influenced to meet local community needs and goals. However, this has changed dramatically!

When?           This slow shift in real estate development practices began in 1992

How?              Policies and funding mechanisms by the Federal Government for 20yrs+

Why?              You decide

The following is taken directly from UN documents available for public use from their website. I have highlighted certain issues and passages for emphasis and follow-up explanations.
Note:  This analysis is long and will be posted over several days. My comments are highlighted in green.

Rio Declaration on Environment and Development

The United Nations Conference on Environment and Development,

Having met at Rio de Janeiro from 3 to 14 June 1992, reaffirming the Declaration of the United Nations Conference on the Human Environment, adopted at Stockholm on 16 June 1972, and seeking to build upon it;

Principle 3

The right to development must be fulfilled so as to equitably meet developmental and environmental needs of present and future generations.

 Principle 4

In order to achieve sustainable development, environmental protection shall constitute an integral part of the development process and cannot be considered in isolation from it.

Principle 8

To achieve sustainable development and a higher quality of life for all people, States should reduce and eliminate unsustainable patterns of production and consumption and promote appropriate demographic policies.

Principle 10

….in their communities, and the opportunity to participate in decision-making processes. States shall facilitate and encourage public awareness and participation by making information widely available. Effective access to judicial and administrative proceedings, including redress and remedy, shall be provided.

Principle 21

The creativity, ideals and courage of the youth of the world should be mobilized to forge a global partnership in order to achieve sustainable development and ensure a better future for all.

AGENDA 21

Taken directly from UN documents posted on their website:

PREAMBLE
NOTE: This is a final, advanced version of a chapter of Agenda 21, as adopted by the Plenary in Rio de Janeiro, on June 14, 1992. This document will be further edited, translated into the official languages, and published by the United Nations for the General Assembly this autumn.

1.1. Humanity stands at a defining moment in history. We are confronted with a perpetuation of disparities between and within nations, a worsening of poverty, hunger, ill health and illiteracy, and the continuing deterioration of the ecosystems on which we depend for our well-being. However, integration of environment and development concerns and greater attention to them will lead to the fulfilment of basic needs, improved living standards for all, better protected and managed ecosystems and a safer, more prosperous future. No nation can achieve this on its own; but together we can - in a global partnership for sustainable development.

1.2. This global partnership must build on the premises of General Assembly resolution 44/228 of 22 December 1989, which was adopted when the nations of the world called for the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development, and on the acceptance of the need to take a balanced and integrated approach to environment and development questions.

1.3. Agenda 21 addresses the pressing problems of today and also aims at preparing the world for the challenges of the next century. It reflects a global consensus and political commitment at the highest level on development and environment cooperation. Its successful implementation is first and foremost the responsibility of Governments. 1/ National strategies, plans, policies and processes are crucial in achieving this. International cooperation should support and supplement such national efforts. In this context, the United Nations system has a key role to play. Other international, regional and subregional organizations are also called upon to contribute to this effort. The broadest public participation and the active involvement of the non-governmental organizations and other groups should also be encouraged.

1.6. The programme areas that constitute Agenda 21 are described in terms of the basis for action, objectives, activities and means of implementation. Agenda 21 is a dynamic programme. It will be carried out by the various actors according to the different situations, capacities and priorities of countries and in full respect of all the principles contained in the Rio Declaration on Environment and Development. It could evolve over time in the light of changing needs and circumstances. This process marks the beginning of a new global partnership for sustainable development.

(Again, I have emphasized only certain sections that relate directly to development. If you are interested in the entire Agenda 21 document, you can go to the following UN link to read the 351 page document):

http://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/content/documents/Agenda21.pdf

Most of us do not think the UN has influenced USA policies. Think again! The UN reach into our real estate development industry over the past 20-years has been remarkable and continues to gain momentum. These efforts have been promoted by both republican and democratic administrations.

Agenda 21 is a document that has transformed our real estate development industry. Over the next couple of weeks, my analysis of Agenda 21 and how it has changed our industry should give you pause! Do your own research!