Novel urban water systems in Germany: governance structures to encourage transformation

Abstract

Novel technologies and concepts for urban water systems regarding the supply of different types of water, the separation of wastewater streams and the use of wastewater as a resource already exist, but for the most part have only been implemented in Germany in pilot projects. Limitations in the ability of governance structures to adapt might be one reason for the stagnation in their implementation. This hypothesis was investigated by means of literature analysis, expert interviews and stakeholder workshops. Obstacles to innovation were identified along with activities and measures that encourage implementation. In particular, institutional barriers and the difficulties institutions have in adapting represented key constraints. Thus routes to institutional innovation and new institutional arrangements among key players were identified and optimised. All in all, specific measures leading to cooperative management have the potential to support the necessary restructuring of institutional arrangements and pave the way for transformation.