Introduction : the environment and sustainable development -- Theoretical and conceptual exploration of sustainable development -- The concept of sustainable development -- International engagement with sustainable development -- Global governance and the United Nations environmental summits -- Key global concerns : climate change and biodiversity management -- The local level : LA21 and public participation -- The promotion of sustainable development in different social, political and economic contexts -- High consumption societies : the responsibilities of the European Union -- Challenges in the Third World -- Changing times : the countries in transition in Eastern Europe -- Conclusion : the promotion of sustainable development : what has been achieved?