2010 Volume 3 Issue 1 Pages 21-30
Environmental policy integration (EPI) is a policy principle designed to achieve sustainable development. Its origin dates back to the early process of EU integration. It received worldwide recognition through the discussion relating to the concept of sustainable development proposed by the Brundtland Commission’s Report, “Our Common Future.” It was within the EU framework that this principle was stipulated in the Amsterdam Treaty adopted in 1997, and practical experience was accumulated in the member states. This paper reviews the development of the concept and practice of EPI, particularly in terms of discussion of its normative nature. The paper then reviews various policy measures adopted in OECD member states to promote EPI as well as “German Strategy for Sustainable Development” as a successful example of EPI. Based on the review, the paper then explores contemporary policy implications and future research agenda relating to EPI, particularly for Japan.
