This significant study discusses the emergence of partnerships for sustainable development as an innovative, and potentially influential, new type of governance. With contributions from leading experts in the field, the 'partnership paradigm' is discussed and the contributors explore the process, extent and circumstances under which partnerships can improve the legitimacy and effectiveness of governance for sustainable development. Scientific research on partnerships within the context of governance theory is fairly new, and there is a clear need to systemize a knowledge base to further define the international research agenda. In addition, there is an urgent demand from governments and international organizations, as well as from non-governmental actors, for strategic insights to build upon their activities in this field. This book is designed to address the questions, debates and agendas related to this new mode of governance. This multi-disciplinary book brings together unique perspectives from organizational theory, policy science, sociology and political science. As such, it will be warmly welcomed by academics of environmental policy and politics as well as scholars and researchers interested in governance for sustainable development. It will also appeal to public policy scholars.

This volume examines the environmental issues currently under debate in the international arena. The text approaches the topic at a conceptual level, and from an interdisciplinary viewpoint. It analyses the roles of key players in environmental policy, the nation state, non-governmental organizations and the business community. It continues with an examination of the importance of international relations (trade, east, west, north, south), and goes on to consider the prospects for sustainable development and social changes required for sustainable development to become a reality.