In some countries, recently returned tendencies to centralize power can become a serious constraint to democratic, local development. The LEAP should not be a concept or policy document for the local level. The aim of the local planning process is to develop a comprehensive program with concrete action to improve the environment at a lower cost with available resources. Various actions and programs included in the LEAP are to be a combination of different projects, instruments, and activities, both newly designed and those already existing. These programs are to be implemented by different parts and groups within the whole community, not by the local government itself.
LEAPs are to be carried out by people living in a given area.
Only local people can design the LEAP in a way which really meets local requirements. Training designed for citizens working on project committees, as well as the continuous education of the public about evaluation of the condition of the environment, understanding of environmental reporting, and showing links between the environment and economy, are prerequisites if the LEAPs are to continue. The LEAP goals are to be realistic and achievable in a certain time limit and with a certain budget. In general, LEAPs focus on short-term priorities. This does not mean that LEAPs compromise a vision of the community with long-term goals.