In pursuit of resilient, low carbon communities: An examination of barriers to action in three Canadian cities

Novel Multisector Networks and Entrepreneurship in Urban Climate Governance

“…Multilevel governance as a theoretical frame has been particularly useful for studies of the role of cities in climate change mitigation, given that cities are politically, jurisdictionally, and financially bounded by higher levels of government (Betsill and Bulkeley, 2006;Burch, 2010;Schroeder and Bulkeley, 2009). In this issue Fisher (2013) makes a direct contribution to this body of theory by examining the relationship between subnational and federal climate change policies in the United States, articulating a theory of 'boomerang federalism' in which local efforts stimulate federal initiatives that return to support the local.…”

“…Novel networks, partnerships, and entrepreneurship across levels of governance and sectors are in a unique position to create new social mobilization (Bulkeley and Moser, 2007) and reveal opportunities for eroding the inertia behind unsustainable practices (Burch, 2010).…”

Strategies and Implications for Network Participation in Regional Climate and Energy Planning

“…Both these administrative levels need to play key roles in implementing national energy and environmental strategies and in formulating their own strategies. Local and regional authorities often also become key actors in areas such as energy planning, energy advisory activities, Agenda 21 activities, and fighting climate change (see e.g., Palm, 2006;Aall et al, 2007;Baker & Eckerberg, 2007;Betsill & Bulkeley, 2007;Burch, 2010;Narodoslawsky & Stoeglehner, 2010). It is in the regions and municipalities that ambitious national and international policies and goals are put into practice.…”

Distributed Leadership in a Low-Carbon City Agenda

“…A low-carbon community can be fostered through integrated efforts of various actors at multiple levels [38][39][40][41]. Generally, the local authority and multiple agencies that provide support for the community are entrusted with divergent tasks and functions, suggesting the need for interrelated and cohesive efforts spearheaded by an effective leadership [42,43]. The journey towards realizing a low-carbon community requires some form of leadership which spans groups of institutions, each of which have their own leadership structures and processes [44][45][46][47].…”