Sustainable consumption in the mediterranean institutions

Although citizens recognise the importance of sustainable consumption, there is a generalised feeling that local and national governments, as well as supranational institutions, should lead the way in promoting this practice. Policies to do this vary greatly between countries and organisations, but focus mainly on awareness raising and market research. This article outlines the measures underway within international organisations such as the UN, the OECD and the EU, in addition to those taken by individual countries, to encourage the implementation of sustainable consumption policies. It then goes on to consider the ways in which the Mediterranean institutions can work together to redefine the role played by supranational organisations in promoting sustainable consumption.