North-South Perspectives on Stakeholder Structure Governing Ambient Air Quality - the Case of Germany and India

Abstract

There is a difference in the degree of success in curbing air pollution in different regions of the world. Therefore, it is of interest to explore how the management of air quality is organised. This paper investigates the role of stakeholders in air quality management in Germany and India, countries with a similar mix of policy instruments but different outcomes. It compares the problem solving capacity taking into account the nature of problems, policy measures and stakeholders. This paper draws attention to the fact that although the number and nature of pressures influencing air quality are important for the success of environmental policies, a clear stakeholder structure is at least of same importance. Concentrating on the stakeholder structure, the study indicates that the management of air quality seems to benefit from empowered civil society and implementation of subsidiarity principle. Further research on the participation opportunities of the stakeholders is needed.