Governing industrial and urban symbiosis: Internal and external strategies for municipal development
View abstract on PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.Local authorities are key to industrial and urban symbiosis (IUS), a circular economy strategy. Effective governance requires strong internal political support and external coordination, not just enforcement.
Area Of Science
- Environmental Science
- Urban Planning
- Sustainability Studies
Background
- Industrial and Urban Symbiosis (IUS) is a sustainability strategy promoting resource efficiency and waste reduction in cities.
- Circular economy principles underpin IUS, driving global interest in urban resource management.
- The role of local authorities in governing IUS is critical but under-researched.
Purpose Of The Study
- To analyze the internal and external governance strategies used by Swedish municipalities in IUS initiatives.
- To understand how municipalities balance internal management with external engagement for effective IUS implementation.
- To identify key factors for successful IUS governance in urban environments.
Main Methods
- A survey was conducted among 22 Swedish municipalities with established or emerging IUS initiatives.
- The study examined both internal self-governing strategies and external engagement approaches.
- Data analysis focused on identifying patterns in municipal prioritization and engagement levels.
Main Results
- IUS is widely prioritized by municipalities, but engagement levels vary significantly.
- Broader administrative involvement correlates with increased capacity for circular solutions.
- Internal political anchoring and external enabling/partnership strategies are crucial for IUS success.
Conclusions
- Municipalities can enhance IUS implementation through strong internal political backing and collaborative external strategies.
- Effective IUS governance relies on coordination and facilitation, with less emphasis on strict legal enforcement.
- The findings offer practical governance insights for urban planners and policymakers globally seeking to advance IUS.
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