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Project Code [2005-PHD5-SPI-4]
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Project title
Participative Democracy and the EU Water Framework Directive: A Sociological Study
Primary Funding Agency
Environmental Protection Agency
Co-Funding Organisation(s)
n/a
Lead Organisation
University College Dublin (UCD)
Lead Applicant
Mary Kelly
Project Abstract
A study of the participative practices associated with the implementation of the EU water Framework directive (WFD) in Ireland. The WFD represents a novel approach to environmental policy making for many reasons i- from a sociological perspective it is particularly interesting because of its bioregional spatial orientation its emphasis on public involvement in decision-making and its focus on the ecology of the entire river catchment systems. It raises structural intuitional and agency questions about socio-economic systems governance arrangements and access to information and knowledge and it provokes questions about the power and the nature of citizenship in a context of sustainability. This is a study of practice in two river basin advisory councils. Implementation of WFD was found to be an overwhelmingly techno-scientific exercise and deeper socio-political questions about values beliefs principles and ideals were largely untouched. It is suggested that opportunities for social learning and change were missed as a result.
Grant Approved
�75,000.00
Research Hub
Sustainability
Research Theme
Socio-Economic Considerations
Initial Projected Completion Date
18/08/2011