Local governments are the key agencies in addressing urban
environmental issues but they are easily overwhelmed by the magnitude of environmental problems.
Planning is piecemeal: the three levels of government (local, provincial, central) seldom coordinate their
plans, nor do the adjacent local governments. Many studies exist but they tend to be driven by the
availability of external financing. Communities have little involvement in decision-making or monitoring of
the services provided. Policy issues such as incentives, institutional arrangements, implementation
capabilities, and proper landfill siting processes are seldom addressed. The project will support local
governments, as provincial and national government agencies delegate implementation and enhance their
own roles of "assistant" and "regulator" respectively