This paper is an overview of demand-side management (DSM) in a global context, The emphasis is upon programme results and lessons learned, particularly those relevant to both an industrial and industrializing country context. A review of DSM progress and programme results contrasts activities in North America with Western Europe, some selected examples in Eastern Europe, Thailand and other countries in South-east Asia, Brazil, Mexico and finally Southern Africa. A short section on the policies and impacts of some of the main development banks - the World Bank, Asian Development Bank, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development - then follows. Some conclusions from these extremely varied programmes, in widely differing political, social and cultural contexts, are finally offered.