Barriers and drivers for sustainable housing : A case study of pre-existing conditions and perceived barriers and drivers for energy and resource efficiency in the housing sector in Östergötland

Abstract: This case study intends to understand and identify perceived barriers and drivers within the housing sector in Östergötland. By deeper understanding of the pre-existing conditions and the perceived barriers and drivers that both limit and enable development, the thesis contributes to the existing literature with extended knowledge. Previous literature within the field along with interviews make up the empirical material analysed in a qualitative exploratory way. This study finds that the importance of different barriers and drivers can vary depending on location and owner-category as well as culture and socio-economic factors. This means that policy and design of drivers also have to be customized accordingly with the different target groups. One can, based on this thesis also conclude that energy and climate development in the housing sector is a slow process that takes time. Regardless the measure or action, nothing changes overnight. This case study has on a regional level begun to identify decisive conditions, barriers and drivers as well as differences within Östergötland, pointing out the direction for future studies and for future policy and action plans.