E D I T O R I A L

  What's the difference? The way we see it is that newsletters focus more on what a specific organisation is doing. A magazine, in comparison, is more concerned with a specific issue or theme.

  What that means is The Bulletin will now focus more on the theme of environmental news and information concerning the region of Central and Eastern Europe (CEE), and less on the specific activities of the Regional Environmental Center (REC). Of course, REC news will continue, especially in the new REC briefs section at the back of each issue. But overall, we will choose those stories and news briefs which we consider to be the most timely, relevant and interesting for the readers of The Bulletin, whether that information concerns the activities of the REC or those of other organisations and individuals.

  This has been the natural evolution of The Bulletin. Based on the ever growing storehouse of information and expertise at the REC, we feel more confident to be able to objectively discuss the major news and players affecting the region's environment.

  We've even added a two-page spread with the most important news briefs from the region, compiled by the REC's very own Media Information Service.

  However, we didn't find a new name for The Bulletin, and it might stay that way.

  We will continue to balance shorter news briefs with columns, features and major cover stories. Past cover stories which took a more in-depth and analytical view at some of the region's major issues such as climate change negotiations and genetic engineering have been widely appreciated, and these will continue.

  This issue's cover stories concerns CEE cities and towns and their increased future involvement and integration into Europe as a whole. From the implications of accession to the European Union, to opportunities for joining the European Sustainable Cities and Towns Campaign, CEE cities from Tallinn to Sofia are beginning to understand what local sustainable development and local Agenda 21s are all about.

  In the end, they are learning about how actively promoting sustainability at the local level will ensure their rightful role among Europe's finest cities and towns.

  A major conference recently held in Sofia, Bulgaria formally introduced many of these concepts to the local leaders of the region. "The commitment and enthusiasm from people from the region was excellent," said European Sustainable Cities and Towns Campaign Coordinator, Anthony Payne. "It was a great kick-start to get them more involved in the European campaign."   It was also refreshing to hear the united voices of local leaders from the region stating that Western Europe also has much to learn from her central and eastern neighbours.

  Now it's just a matter of moving ahead, and The Bulletin will be there to illuminate the region's barriers and successes in the process, all along the way.