Statement of the Establishment of the 20% Club for Sustainable Cities

Global warming and ozone-layer depletion caused by mass production, mass consumption, and the highly wasteful lifestyles of advanced countries; deterioration of the natural environment stemming from an increasing population in developing countries; spreading industrial pollution accompanying rapid economic development - environmental problems are clearly expanding to a scale that affects all humankind, fauna and flora.

Because many environmental problems originate in the economic activities and lifestyles of regional communities, the role played by local authorities, so closely tied to regional communities, is critical.

Based on this recognition, the World Conference on Local Initiatives for Sustainable Cities (LISC 95), held in November 1995 proposed the formation of the 20% Club for Sustainable Cities for local authorities.

Based on this proposal, we, representatives of local authorities around the world, in consideration of the importance of the role of cities and local authorities in realizing a sustainable society, hereby establish the 20% Club for Sustainable Cities.

Having set the numerical targets of 20% reductions in environmental burdens or 20% increases in environmental improvements which shall be aimed to be achieved in approximately five years, the member cities of the 20% Club aim to accelerate their endeavors to improve the environment. In joining the Club, these local authorities express their strong will to bring about sustainable development.

It is hoped that more and more local authorities will join the 20% club and , based on international solidarity and cooperation, further their efforts toward environmental preservation.