Brussels, 04/05/2012 (Agence Europe) - Implementing a new sustainable development strategy requires a renewed sense of urgency, ambition, policy coherence and accountability and, while the transition to a green economy is an integral part of the process, it is only the first step, said those taking part in the “Think green! The Opportunities of Sustainable Development and of the Green Economy” conference, organised by the European Economic and Social Committee in Brussels on 2 May in the run-up to the RIO+20 global conference. Sustainable and environmental labelling, the exchange of information on best practice, more widespread sustainable consumption patterns, and education programmes are just a few key elements, they said, of a much-needed green economy roadmap, as the RIO+20 goals will only be reached by an overarching policy framework. Decoupling economic growth from resource use, modernising the energy sectors and introducing sustainable transport policies for people and goods are examples mentioned of initiatives and good local practice that should be made more widespread. (AN/transl.rt)