Measuring the quality of life the 2001 sustainable development headline indicators fourth report of session 2001-02 report, together with proceedings of the Committee and minutes of evidence

House of Commons papers 2001-02 824

Format:
Corporate Author:
Great Britain Parliament House of Commons Environmental Audit Committee
Author:
Horam John chairman
Publisher:
TSO (The Stationery Office)
Price: £10.00

In May 1999, the Government set out fifteen headline indicators as a new way of assessing whether the UK can achieve a better quality of life via a strategy of sustainable development (Cm.4345, White Paper). The 15, part of a larger set of 150 indicators, represent key areas that represent a barometer to defining quality of life. The Government has committed itself to reporting annually on these, providing a traffic light assessment (green, amber, red) on what has been achieved. Out of the fifteen, about nine indicators, according to the Government, have seen significant change in meeting their objectives. The Committee suggests that a short justification should accompany this marking, and that third party validation of the Government's assessments, would promote greater credibility and value. Taking three areas of assessment; waste, transport and climate change, the Committee found that confusion could emerge where distinctions are not made specific enough, for example between different kinds of waste, or the rate of growth in traffic, or the reduction and increase in some greenhouse gases. These variables and fluctuations in trends should not be used to skew the assessment of the indicators, and the Committee feels that more specific indicators, along with cogent explanations would reduce potential confusion and scepticism.

Extent 23, Ev 22p. ISBN 9780215004277
Size N/A Price £10.00
Format Paperback Published 11 Jul 2002
Availability Out of Print: but may be available to order Delivery Delivery options and charges