Title: Success potentials in environmental policy networks: 'to join or not to join' compatibility, influence, cost effectiveness

Authors: Nicolas D. Hasanagas, Alejandra Real T.

Addresses: University of Goettingen, Germany. ' University of Goettingen, Germany

Abstract: This article attempts to analyze potentials and prescribe conditions under which it is advisable for an organization (environmental NGO or economic groups like landowner associations, etc.) to join an environmental policy network. This work is based on empirical material obtained from expert interviews. Models of power theory and theory of organized interests are used. These potentials are described through the following variables: a) compatibility of the program, guidelines, personnel and activities of an organization with the socio-political conditions of the network, b) influence evolved from internal organizational potentials and structures and expressed through specific exchange relations (trust, obedience, commitment and information) and c) cost effectiveness of joining (internal regulations, external rearrangements and surveillance). Compatibility factors should be examined before joining. These relations are determined by certain potentials and structures (expertise, financing resources, centralization, etc.). The most influential organization gains trust, obedience and commitment and can provide the less influential organizations with information. The influence position of an organization in a network is conditioned by these exchange relations. A policy maker can evaluate the status of an organization through these and assess its chances. Cost effectiveness can be evaluated in each particular case through empirical analysis.

Keywords: exchange relations; compatibility; influence; cost effectiveness; environmental policy networks; power theory; theory of organised interests.

DOI: 10.1504/IER.2004.053973

Interdisciplinary Environmental Review, 2004 Vol.6 No.2, pp.101 - 116

Published online: 13 May 2013 *

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