Emerging Challenges for Cleaner Production Networks – The decline of the Global Resource Efficient and Cleaner Production Network (RECPnet)

Abstract

Cleaner production has been channelled through National Cleaner Production Centres (NCPCs) across the world since the year 1994. In order to strengthen the scaling up and replication of Resource Efficient and Cleaner Production (RECP) in developing and transition countries, the Global Resource Efficient and Cleaner Production Network (RECPnet) was formed as a platform for networking, knowledge exchange and information transfer. However, the success of such networks can become short-lived if there is no funding strategy beyond project financing and if individual network members fail to take ownership of the network. This research assesses the role of the Global RECPnet in promoting cleaner production and analyses the challenges that the network faced in ensuring its continuity beyond project finance. The research further identifies barriers in the advancement of the Global RECPnet and its goals. A Case Study methodology was used and within the case study, interviews were undertaken with key industry experts in the field of Resource Efficient and Cleaner Production (RECP). Questionnaires were also send to selected members of the network. Content analysis was undertaken on publicly available Global RECPnet documents and evaluation reports. We conclude that networks such as Global RECPnet are effective drivers of cleaner production, but require a plan for network survival beyond patron agencies. However, without patron agencies and international funders, the network proved not to be viable, as most of the members could not finance their own subscriptions. We propose for a hybrid mechanism of network financing and dealing with dependencies on development support.