Presenting a framework to analyze local climate policy and action in small and medium-sized cities

Hoppe, T.; van der Vegt, Arjen; Stegmaier, Peter

doi:10.3390/su8090847

Presenting a framework to analyze local climate policy and action in small and medium-sized cities

Title

Presenting a framework to analyze local climate policy and action in small and medium-sized cities

Author

Hoppe, T. (TU Delft Organisation & Governance)
van der Vegt, Arjen (University of Twente)
Stegmaier, Peter (University of Twente)

Date

2016

Abstract

Academic attention to local climate policy usually focuses on large-sized cities. Given the climate challenges ahead this seems unjustified. Small and medium-sized cities (SMCs) deserve scholarly attention as well. The main question is: What factors influence climate change policy and local climate actions in SMCs? In this article we present an analytical framework to analyze climate change policy and local climate actions of SMCs. The framework addresses different aspects: policy-input, -throughput, -output, -outcome, characteristics of the local environment, local action arenas, influence by higher government levels, and interaction with climate change issue networks. The framework is used to analyze and compare four case studies of SMCs in the Dutch region of Twente (two urban and two rural municipalities, and addresses both adaptation and mitigation). Results show that both 'localist', 'multi-level' and issue network membership factors influence local climate policy action. Governance modes discerned concern mostly 'governing by authority' and 'self-governing'. When reflecting on the role of SMCs in climate action the study revealed the importance of local capacity building schemes issued by provincial government, inter-municipal network collaboration, and the potential for local governments to mobilize and organize citizen action.

Subject

Climate change adaptation
Climate change mitigation
Climate governance
Energy transition
Small and medium-sized cities
OA-Fund TU Delft

To reference this document use:

http://resolver.tudelft.nl/uuid:b95661c2-4941-4f0e-b554-f5c81197a75c

DOI

https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090847

ISSN

2071-1050

Source

Sustainability, 8 (9)

Part of collection

Institutional Repository