A stakeholder perspective on overcoming governance gaps in order to create a climate-adapted landscape at the Utrechtse Heuvelrug

Abstract

National Park Utrechtse Heuvelrug is a nature area that currently faces many challenges related to climate change. Climate adaptation (CA) is required to ensure that the Utrechtse Heuvelrug (UH) can fulfil its current functions relating to recreation, nature conservation, living, drinking water etc. This CA transition involves various stakeholders, who already play a role. However, the implementation of CA solutions proceeds slowly. This thesis researches the social-ecological system (SES) of the UH to analyse what acceleration possibilities exist for the transition towards a climate-adapted landscape.

This was done by conducting an actor-issue network analysis, which provides insight into the interconnectedness of actors and/or climate issues. The network was complemented by a power-interest matrix, showing the different levels of power and interest held by stakeholders, and by a PESTEL-analysis, which is a strategic planning tool that helps define key drivers for change (KDFC). The network and the power-interest matrix were developed based on data collected through desk research and 22 interviews. The PESTEL-analysis resulting in the KDFC was based on two workshops with relevant stakeholders.

12 KDFC were identified to accelerate the transition towards a climate-adapted landscape at the UH: 1) Set priorities and frameworks, 2) Strengthen governmental leadership (“regie”), 3) Invest in CSR, 4) Stakeholders should better argue what benefits their solution has, 5) Combine functions and always consider CA, 6) Work from intrinsic motivation, 7) Increasingly connect other stakeholders and boost CA solutions, 8) Seize opportunities, 9) Prioritise long-term solutions, 10) Establish an overarching research direction: measuring and monitoring, 11) Increase the capacity of municipalities, and 12) Better substantiate why stakeholders believe a project should proceed.

These results apply to the UH and while some KDFC may be useful to other national parks, the results cannot directly be generalised, due to different governance structures and climate issues. Implementing the KDFC can help to accelerate the transition toward a climate-adapted landscape. Various stakeholders have been identified to be responsible for implementing one or more KDFC. However, in the end, it is up to all stakeholders to collaboratively take responsibility in this transition.