Defining standards of good ecological condition for computing the ESGAP in developing countries

This report seeks to demonstrate the feasibility of an "all-country" ESGAP (Environmental Sustainability Gap), the implementation of the framework and the calculation of ESGAP parameters for as many countries as possible around the world. A preliminary step in implementing ESGAP is to identify the relevant data sources and, more problematically, the relevant sustainability standards for each ESGAP component. This holistic approach is therefore not about analysing sustainability issues in specific countries, but rather about trying to generalise the concept of a 'good ecological status standard' and apply it in a cross-country comparison. The lack of appropriate standards for many key contributions of natural capital and in many countries is one of the most notable gaps identified in the ESGAP pilot projects. This study identifies the missing standards for one or more ESGAP components. It discusses possible strategies for developing appropriate standards in the event that no appropriate standards are available globally..