Multi-Actor Platforms in theWater–Agriculture Nexus: Synergies and Long-Term Meaningful Engagement
Date
2021-11-12
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
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Publisher
MDPI
Abstract
Solutions to current complex environmental challenges demand the consultation and
involvement of various groups in society. In light of the WFD’s requirements of public participation,
this paper presents an analysis of the establishment and development of nine different multi-actor
platforms (MAPs) across Europe set up as arenas for long-term engagements to solve water quality
challenges in relation to agriculture. The MAPs represent different histories and legacies of engagement;
some are recent initiatives and some are affiliated with previous government-initiated
projects, while other MAPs are long-term engagement platforms. A case study approach drawing on
insights from the nine engagement processes is used to discuss conditions for enabling long-term
multi-actor engagement. The perceived pressure for change and preferred prioritization in complying
with mitigating water quality problems vary within and among the MAPs. The results show that
governmental and local actors’ concern for water quality improvements and focusing on pressure for
change are important for establishing meaningful multi-actor engagement when concerns translate
into a clear mandate of the MAP. Furthermore, the degree to which the MAPs have been able to
establish relationships and networks with other institutions such as water companies, agricultural
and environmental authorities, farmers, and civil society organizations influences possibilities for
long-term meaningful engagement.
Description
Publication history: Accepted - 3 November 2021; Published - 12 November 2021.
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Article
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Keywords
water governance, agriculture, multi-actor approach, engagement, participation, trust, social networks
Citation
Nesheim, I., Sundnes, F., Enge, C., Graversgaard, M., van den Brink, C., Farrow, L., Glavan, M., Hansen, B., Leitão, I. A., Rowbottom, J. and Tendler, L. (2021) ‘Multi-Actor Platforms in the Water–Agriculture Nexus: Synergies and Long-Term Meaningful Engagement’, Water. MDPI AG. doi: 10.3390/w13223204.