New measures will only succeed if accompanied by a reversal or redirection of policies that have generated unsustainable outcomes. Transformations of such complexity require a gradual but steady transition process. During such a process, the impact of responses needs to be properly monitored so that if required, corrective measures can be taken to keep progress towards internationally agreed goals and targets on track. At the same time, it is important to strengthen the structural conditions – providing support for capacity building and creating an enabling environment consistent with the vision of a sustainable world.

i A results-based approach to advancing human well-being and sustainability involves:

Framing environmental goals and monitoring environmental outcomes within the context of setting sustainable development goals

Building on the lessons sustainability of the MDGs is critical to the possible development of any sustainable development goals. Metrics should track

progress, strengthen accountability and facilitate learning. Such goals could also guide a public and private sector investment roadmap to a green and inclusive economy to stimulate economic development and job creation by the sustainable use of ecosystems and natural resources, as well as infrastructural investments and technologies. New goals, related to the critical drivers including the consumption and production of food, energy and water, could be explored. Systematic monitoring and periodic reviews of progress on the agreed universal goals would promote continuous improvement and social learning as well as institutional and individual accountability.