BUILDING A FRAMEWORK FOR NATIONAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT ASSESSMENT AND APPLICATION FOR LITHUANIA: SUSTAINABILITY IN TRANSITION

Abstract

This study aims to assess the outcomes of the transition period in terms of sustainable development in Lithuania in 1990–2004. The author aims to reveal the synergies and contradictions between the period of transition and the progress to sustainability. The research uses the conceptual framework for assessment of progress towards achieving sustainable development (APASD) for economies in transition (Kobus, 2005). The framework is based on three principles of sustainable development: the principle of carrying capacity, the principle of intergenerational equity and the principle of intragenerational equity. A three-tier system has been formed: each principle has been assigned two operational criteria and a number of sustainable development indicators. Finally, the framework has been applied to Lithuania unveiling the situation of sustainability and providing recommendations for policy response. The transition period has moved the national development closer to sustainability according to the principles of carrying capacity and intergenerational equity; however, it has not been so favourable for the principle of intragenerational equity.