Establishing an assessment framework to support the development of effective policies in the field of natural resource management

Abstract

This study aimed to provide a framework analysis of policy effectiveness in view of a set of identified principles in the field of natural resource management. The principles identified, follow a methodology that reflects foreign practices in the light of the Maltese attitudes and willingness towards a sustainable lifestyle. This research study therefore analyses different policies from different countries and seek to find a relationship between the priority areas they follow. It will also illustrate how such relationship conforms to the homogeneous principles of sustainable development. The study initiates by defining the determinants of natural resources and proceeds with mentioning the trends concerned with natural resource management. Surveys were conducted with Maltese citizens to assist in defining principles that reflect upon the Maltese attitudes and willingness towards the conservation of natural resources. The initiatives used to conduct the framework were chosen from both European and non European countries to ensure a good correlation between policies formulation used within different commissions was reached. In conclusion, using the framework made it possible to measure the policy effectiveness for the 'National Environment Policy' for Malta. It dwells into whether the principles of such a policy pertain to the principles of sustainability and whether they are coherent with what international countries suggest. Additionally, it also takes into consideration the stakeholders and the potential actions they are willing to endure or forfeit to protect the natural resources, belonging to their country.