The focus of this publication is on how small and medium-sized communities in Europe are effectively responding to climate change, with a particular focus on different approaches used in sustainable energy planning and implementation.
A number of cases presented show the result of different (and often combined) motivations and actions. The most effective responses are those with a holistic, integrated and long-term approach, addressing both climate change mitigation and adaptation, based on citizen and other local stakeholder involvement.
From the Table of Contents: List of Contributors.- Foreword.- Preface.- Acknowledgements.-Chapter 1: Introduction.-; Part 1 -- A focus on Climate, Energy and Local Governments.- Chapter 2: Motivation for local action.-Chapter 3 Strategic framework supporting local action.-Chapter 4: Local action -- planning and implementation.-Chapter 5: Framework conditions and support mechanisms.-; Part 2: Local Climate Action Case Studies.-Chapter 6: Selected case studies illustrating the three streams of action.- 6.1 Policy and comprehensive strategic approach.- 6.2 Technology and Measures.- 6.3 People and Lifestyle.-Chapter 7. Conclusion.-; Glossary.- Author Index.- Combined index of names and subjects
This is a timely book that addresses an urgent problem. Not only does it draw our attention to the role of local government in addressing climate change but it also highlights the issue with regard to small and medium sized communities, which is where the majority of Europe's population actually lives. Moreover, the emphasis on participation is important in an age where the legitimacy of government action is increasingly being questioned. (Rob Atkinson, University of the West of England, Bristol, UK)
"Municipalities matter! With clear arguments and multiple case studies Maryke van Staden and Francesco Musco show how mayors and local governments can - and must - lead in climate action. " (Michael Hebbert, University of Manchester, UK)