Indicators being developed
UK Framework
The UK's shared Framework for Sustainable Development One future - different paths committed to develop three new measures; social justice, environmental equality and wellbeing. With the launch of the set of sustainable development indicators in June 2006, the Scottish Executive undertook to assess the applicability at the Scotland level of any new measures developed from this work.
Defra is co-ordinating the work on the development of these potential indicators.
For the latest progress report, Sustainable development indicators in your pocket 2008, see this page Sustainable development indicators in your pocket.
Social Justice
Indicator to be developed. Social justice is about tackling inequalities and striving for a fair, tolerant and cohesive society. A large number of issues are potentially integral to social justice and hence it is a very difficult concept to measure. At present there is no nationally agreed set of indicators available. Further work is needed.
Environmental Equality
An indicator has been developed looking at populations in England living in areas with, in relative terms, the least favourable environmental conditions.
'Environmental Equality' is a 'UK Framework Indicator'. Its future development will need to reflect the different needs and issues in each country of the UK.
Wellbeing
A cross-departmental group was set up in September 2005 to oversee research and work on wellbeing. Four projects were commissioned to review existing research and evidence and consider their implications for policy. They reviewed wellbeing measures and the strength of the evidence on what promotes wellbeing; the relationship between sustainable development and wellbeing; and overseas experiences of taking a wellbeing focus.
A second cross-departmental group was set up in December 2006, consisting of analysts and academic experts. The group has used the research results on what influences wellbeing as a framework for developing the indicators.
Wellbeing is a broad concept with many varying definitions. Here, it is understood to be "a positive physical, social and mental state; it is not just the absence of pain, discomfort and incapacity. It requires that basic needs are met, that individuals have a sense of purpose, that they feel able to achieve important personal goals and participate in society. It is enhanced by conditions that include supportive personal relationships, strong and inclusive communities, good health, financial and personal security, rewarding employment, and a healthy and attractive environment."
Wellbeing is also a UK Framework indicator, shared by the UK Government and the Devolved Administrations in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. The provisional set of measures only relate to the UK Government Strategy; furthermore much of the data currently available relate to England only. In due course, in discussion with the Devolved Administrations, measures will be developed to integrate wellbeing into the UK Framework Indicators.
The full list of provisional wellbeing measures for the UK Government is given in Sustainable development indicators in your pocket.