Introduction and overview

In this paper we summarize the contributions and outcome of INDEX Workshop on Environmental Indicators and Indices, July 10–14, 1998, which is an offspring of INDEX ‘97 first international conference on environmental indicators and indices, held a year before in St. Petersburg. The terms indicators and indices are defined and the conceptual frameworks for the use of indicators are discussed. Systems approach, sustainability and transdisciplinarity are identified as key issues in the development of indicators and indices. Also a scientific underpinning of assessments based on indicators and indices is identified as a major gap. To further promote indicator and indices approaches, the mission of the International Committee on Environmental Indices (ICEI) is presented.