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The need to reconcile social and environmental goals for sustainable development still poses problems for policy makers in the richer parts of the world. Using the examples of domestic water and energy, this paper argues that the problems are reflected, and often magnified, in developing countries. They arise largely from conflicts between the short-term need to alleviate poverty and longer-term objectives for environmental sustainability. The dual nature of water and energy as both social and economic goods raises questions about the most appropriate forms of provision and allocation of the utilities. It is in no one's long-term interest for developing countries to repeat the environmentally damaging mistakes of the industrialized world. But an equitable distribution of the short-term costs attached to a more environmentally responsible use of resources demands new ways of thinking about global social justice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Greece is witnessing a series of international developments which necessitate an adjustment process, but also offer a new perspective for development. CAP reform, the Uruguay Round Final Act, market liberalization and the prospect of European Union enlargement by Central and Eastern European countries (CEEC) imply new problems, but also new opportunities. In order for Greece to confront adjustment problems successfully, it is necessary that an integrated strategy for sustainable rural development be developed. National regional and inter-sectoral policies for rural sustainable development should be supplemented by increased, mutually beneficial economic co-operation in the CEEC and in the wider Black Sea region. This paper examines and identifies patterns of trade, production and investment that Greece should adopt, in order to establish fruitful and mutually beneficial economic co-operation with the CEEC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]