Networks, protest and regulatory systems: the case of energy from waste

Abstract

In this paper, we examine the claims that competing networks make over the safety or risk attached to an energy-from-waste (EfW) plant in Crymlyn Burrows in South Wales. The paper draws upon a governmentality perspective and identifies three networks at the heart of decision-making: a dissenter network, a developer network and a regulatory network. The arguments put forward by the networks reveal much about how power relations are realised at a local level. The paper draws upon a longitudinal case study approach to demonstrate that networks have a life beyond a development decision and that key actors can align themselves with competing networks at different points in the development and operation phase of an EfW plant.

Keywords:

• governmentality
• networks
• incineration
• participation
• stakeholders

Notes

1. Rose-Redwood (2006) claims that this is largely due to Foucault's death in 1984 which meant that only a series of lectures on the theme of governmentality has been published (1991) rather than a more complete text.