The Governance of Land Use in OECD Countries
Policy Analysis and Recommendations
Land use has important consequences for the environment, public health, economic productivity, inequality and social segregation. Land use policies are often complex and require co-ordination across all levels of government as well as across policy sectors. Not surprisingly, land use decisions can be contentious and conflicts over land use are common across the OECD. This report argues that better land use governance requires the use of a broader set of public policies to influence land use. In particular, the incentives for particular land uses provided by fiscal instruments and tax policies need to be better aligned with land use objectives. The report furthermore analyses land use patterns across the OECD based on comprehensive land cover data. It shows that developed land is growing everywhere, but great variation exists between countries. Lastly, the report summarises insights from six in-depth case studies to show concrete examples of land use related challenges in OECD countries and the response of national, regional and local governments to them.
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Assessment and Recommendations
Land use affects the environment, public health, economic growth, the distribution of wealth, social outcomes and the attractiveness of cities and towns. Land-use practices have major consequences for climate change mitigation. Land use has been linked to approximately one-third of all man-made CO2 emissions. Land use also influences air pollution and determines whether or not cities are walkable. In turn, both factors affect public health.
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