Niche Providers' Perspective : Barriers towards LOD implementation in Stockholm

Abstract: Studies indicate that there will be an increase in precipitation and flooding in cities due to coming climate changes. The current stormwater management systems in Stockholm are not equipped to handle such a change. This necessitates a momentum towards sustainable stormwater solutions. This paper intends to examine from a Niche Providers' perspective what a sustainable stormwater solution in Stockholm could entail, to which extent it is being implemented and what the perceived barriers are towards a regime shift, using Strategic Niche Management theory as a framework. The Niche Providers interviewed were in agreement that LOD (local management of stormwater) is the desired solution for sustainable stormwater management in Stockholm. This was also supported by the literature. When asked how far the implementation of LOD has come in Stockholm, the Niche Providers were unable to provide concrete answers. Their answers indicated however, that attempts are being made to as far as possible work with LOD. The research shows that despite this, there has been no significant change in the overall implementation of LOD in recent years showing that there is in fact inertia towards regime shift. Through the interviews conducted the Niche Providers were given an opportunity to articulate what they saw as barriers towards using LOD solutions both in their everyday life and in the industry in general. An analysis of the data provided through these interviews gives a good indication of what these Niche Providers perceive as being obstacles that explain the inertia towards a regime shift. The biggest perceived barriers were Governmental and regulatory factors, Technological factors and Demand factors. These results correspond well with the strategic niche management theory that shows that in order for a regime shift to occur, you first and foremost need to have a viable technological solution, but you also require the government to take active measures in order to ensure forward momentum as a way to counteract the significant barrier provided on the demand side. However, the research indicates that the inertia towards LOD might be coming to an end as there have been some significant steps taken in one of the biggest barriers, the governmental and regulatory framework factor.