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Project title

Waste & Circular Economy Governance

Primary Funding Agency

Environmental Protection Agency

Co-Funding Organisation(s)

n/a

Lead Organisation

Institute of Public Administration (IPA)

Lead Applicant

John O Neill

Project Abstract

We are now at a pivotal point in Ireland’s approach to waste policy and it is within this context that a proposed research programme will look to support the delivery of the new National Waste Policy. To achieve this, it is envisaged that a similar approach will be adopted to that used in the IPA-EPA water governance research programme (including an examination of the relevance of experimental governance), where strengths and limitations will be identified from a strategic review of; • Existing waste governance arrangements at national and local level (i.e. RWMPOs), and • What governance structures and processes are emerging/proposed in respect of the new waste policy (A Waste Action Plan for the Circular Economy) to support implementation However, it is recognised that waste governance structures and processes are not as developed as they are in respect of water. The first task will be to map the structures, processes, actors and linkages that support waste governance in Ireland and to understand both areas of strength but also possible barriers and challenges to effective waste governance. This will involve extensive research across the relevant waste structures both at national and local level. It is anticipated that semi-structured interviews will be the most appropriate research method, though similar to the water governance research, workshops may be used to review research findings. As in the case of water governance it is also intended that the research will support policy makers in ensuring a robust approach to waste governance in Ireland. As noted above, policy in respect of waste is complex and evolving with a new National Waste Policy to be published in 2022. However, as the research in respect of water (O’Riordan et al, 2021 and Boyle et al, 2021) has highlighted implementation of policy is highly dependent on good governance. This research will support better governance in the area of waste.

Grant Approved

�217,000.00

Research Hub

Green and Circular Economy

Research Theme

n/a

Start Date

01/07/2022

Initial Projected Completion Date

30/06/2024