15Статья поступила 07.04.2025. После доработки 30.06.2025. Принята к печати 19.08.2025.
Abstract. In the current context, the environmental agenda is becoming an integral part of regional development policy. This article aims to identify the opportunities and limitations of integrating environmental aspects into the development strategies of economically advanced regions of the European Union, using the cases of North Rhine – Westphalia (Germany) and Lombardy (Italy). The study employs interdisciplinary approaches and a comparative method to analyze the incorporation of “green” measures into regional policies. Particular attention is given to institutional frameworks, transparency of decision-making processes, stakeholder involvement, and public support. The analysis reveals that in North Rhine – Westphalia, environmental transformation has become part of structural policy and is supported at all levels – from citizens to business and government. In contrast, in Lombardy, environmental initiatives remain fragmented and largely dependent on national and supranational priorities. Despite the existence of formal participation mechanisms, the influence of civil society on policy decisions in Lombardy is limited. The findings demonstrate that the success of environmental transformation depends on institutional maturity, the alignment of stakeholder interests, and public perception of the green agenda as a common good. In conclusion, the article emphasizes the need for a systematic approach that takes into account the economic, social, and cultural specificities of the region in order to effectively integrate environmental dimension into development policies. The study contributes to the broader debate on territorial variation in regional development models within the EU. It also highlights the importance of regional leadership and policy innovation in translating environmental ambitions into practical governance tools. Further research is needed to assess long-term impacts of regional environmental strategies and their scalability across different political and economic contexts. The analysis underlines the need to link environmental priorities with concrete policy instruments, ensuring that regional development is guided by coherent strategies, institutional accountability, and meaningful engagement of local communities.
Keywords: regional development, development policy, environmental policy, structural policy, North Rhine –Westphalia, Lombardy, actors, stakeholders
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