Part 2 of the assessment prioritizes a varying number of environmental themes per region and selected internationally agreed goals under each theme through a consultative process. The regional assessments focus on identifying policy responses that would help speed up the achievement of internationally agreed goals. It has been observed that there are many policies that have been shown to work in more than one country, but these policies need to be more widely supported, adopted and implemented according to national conditions to speed up the achievement of internationally agreed goals. The analysis is presented using case studies that illustrate the application of policies at a national or transboundary level within each region and presents the benefits and drawbacks of implementing the policies and the enabling factors and barriers that enhance or impede their uptake.

Limited evidence of the potential for policy transfer to other countries or other regions is documented, as often there is insufficient empirical evidence to make categorical statements on policy success or transferability.

Among the long list of policy responses found to be effective, some highly promising approaches are described in the regional chapters. Together, these form a possible policy agenda that would support an inclusive green economy approach and are worthy of closer analysis by governments when examining new policy options.

Part 3 identifies possible options for action to transition towards sustainable development including through increased coordination, participation and cooperation required to support the achievement of internationally agreed goals and work towards sustainable development at the global level.

The development of GEO-5 involved extensive collaboration between UNEP and a multi-disciplinary network of experts, all of whom made their valuable time and knowledge available to the process in recognition of its importance.