1. The Aarhus Centres Network
60 Centres in 14 countries
Key lessons learned
Government ownership is a prerequisite
Involvement of local stakeholders is key for good governance
Building local capacities is vital for sustainability
Learning from each other and sharing of experiences increase the impact
Partnerships are essential (e.g. with UNECE)
Key challenges and opportunities
Close link between sustainable development and peace
Addressing environment and security challenges requires dialogue between countries and within countries among a wide array of stakeholders
Outcomes – Aarhus Centres as bridges between civil society and governmental authorities
Support public authorities in the implementation of the Aarhus Convention
Assist citizens to understand their rights as brought by the Aarhus Convention
Provide platforms for dialogue
Raise public awareness of environmental issues
Disseminate environmental information
Organize public hearings
Monitor local environmental hotspots
Provide legal advice to citizens and NGOs on environmental matters
Promote transboundary co-operation among local stakeholders

2. Future steps Support Aarhus Centres’ engagement in:
localization of the SDGs
Reinforcing local ownership and raising awareness on the SDGs
National/local SDG implementation and review processes
Strengthen the capacities of Aarhus Centres in order to facilitate their engagement in the transition to Green Economy
Strengthen the regional and sub-regional networking and co-operation among the Aarhus Centres