This fascinating volume examines the recent increase in subnational environmental policy agreements between different countries, with a particular focus on Germany and the US. Holley Ralston explores why international environmental partnerships are forming at the state level and the factors that both aid and inhibit their long—term success.
The book begins with an in—depth analysis of the theoretical and historical frameworks of transnational partnerships, before transitioning into a discussion of specific environmental agreements between US and German states. The following partnerships are covered in detail: California and Bavaria (1995 and 2000), Wisconsin and Bavaria (1998), Maryland and Schleswig—Holstein (2002) and California and North Rhine—Westphalia (2004). Taken together, these examples provide important insights into the ways in which multi—level governance structures allow subnational actors to shape policy developments around global environmental issues.
This timely study — the first of its kind on this topic — will appeal to both academic researchers and policymakers with an interest in global environmental governance, environmental policymaking, comparative governance and the roles of individuals versus institutions.