Supporting Local Implementation of the European Green Deal through a Place-Based, Participatory Approach

Testi, Andrea; Zetti, Iacopo; Tarsi, Elena; Fontana, Cassandra; Gisotti, Maria Rita; Rossi, Maddalena (2023). Supporting Local Implementation of the European Green Deal through a Place-Based, Participatory Approach: Methodology for a Comprehensive Analytical Framework. SUSTAINABILITY, vol. 15, pp. 0-16.


Through the European Green Deal (EGD), Europe is aiming to take the lead in the global ecological transition. But how can these high-level strategies be turned into concrete, local action? This study argues that the key to success lies in a “place-based” approach, which is an analytical method that recognises and respects the unique characteristics of each area. A multidimensional understanding of the land is essential for bridging the gap between local administrations and citizens, going beyond technical data. Moving away from ‘one-size-fits-all’ solutions, this research proposes a novel framework to ensure the green transition is a democratic and participatory process, not just a bureaucratic mandate, fostering truly effective and shared policies.