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In the first phase ofthe project, human activities affecting particular environmental sectors in
the municipality were identified by means of a sociological-environmental survey. The
Institute for Environmental Policy (IEP) prepared questions on municipal problems related to
various spheres of life, although they were not limited to the environment. In the second
phase, all analyses for establishing priorities focused on the direct impact ofthe environment
on human health. Ranking of environmental problems was established. This was according
to the relationship between probable and proved occurrence ofdiseases, and particular factors
related to environmental pollution.
3.6.1.3 Creation ofaction plan
Selected strategies for addressing the waste problem were outlined in a comprehensive action
plan which focused on management ofhousehold and industrial waste. This action plan was
considered a pilot study since it had become obvious that neither municipalities, nor their
specialised organisations, have reliable information on energy - material flows had been
distorted and had not indicated real costs. This action plan was presented and discussed by
local government bodies, and the Environmental Committee, to be approved by the Municipal
Council and the Assembly. This two-round approval procedure was necessary for the
adoption ofthe plan by local government.
3.6.1.4 Achievements
Many institutions joined the project to provide environmental information and expertise.
Enterprises already privatized willingly made available information (there was a substantial
difference between private and state-owned companies). Most citizens accepted the LEAP
project in a very positive way as an opportunity for participating directly in municipal
decision-making. The environmental-sociological survey raised citizens' interest in the
project and the environment in general. Establishment ofnew environmental sub-eommittees
dealing with concrete, environmental issues identified during the LEAP development
increased substantially the participation of the public and its on-going cooperation with local
governments. The sub-eommittees were assigned important initiative and control powers
[wv.w.leap.com, (2007)].
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