Abstract
This article examines environmental governance and citizen participation in urban planning processes across European cities. Through comparative analysis of participatory environmental governance in Amsterdam, Barcelona, and Bucharest, the study evaluates the effectiveness of different institutional models for incorporating citizen perspectives into urban environmental decision-making.
Key Findings
- Participatory governance mechanisms vary significantly in their depth and authenticity across different institutional contexts
- Environmental justice concerns are most effectively addressed when participation processes actively include marginalised communities
- Digital participatory tools enhance accessibility but cannot substitute for face-to-face deliberation
- Professional expertise and citizen knowledge can be productively combined in environmental governance
Methodology
Comparative case study analysis of three urban environmental governance initiatives, combining institutional analysis with participant observation, stakeholder interviews, and citizen survey data.
Implications
The article provides evidence-based recommendations for designing environmental governance processes that combine technical expertise with meaningful citizen participation, contributing to both better environmental outcomes and democratic legitimacy.
