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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

Start Date

01/11/2005

Initial Projected Completion Date

18/08/2011