There are often conflicts between the central and local governments in China: the centre has decided on policies that are not being implemented on the ground, creating a ‘local implementation gap’, particularly in environmental policies. This thesis explores how local governments operate in the Chinese polity. What factors influence their choices and actions in the policy processes? This is examined through a case-study of Shanghai’s climate and energy policy processes. A key finding is that the commonly found central-local discrepancy was not there to the same extent. The Shanghai authorities were not opposed to contributing its share of greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reductions. On the contrary, Shanghai wanted to do its part, and sought to work together with the central government.
This thesis contributes new insights on local policy processes, in particular concerning energy, and climate mitigation. Building on studies of how institutional dynamics have shaped Chinese politics, the theoretical contribution lies in how power is applied, using a framework that allows for inclusion of various aspects of power that a local government may experience and utilize, often simultaneously.
Iselin Stensdal successfully defended her dissertation on 7 January 2025.
Trial lecture
Designated topic: "Climate policy development and implementation in China: Strengths and weaknesses of the Shanghai Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS)"
Evaluation committee
- Professor emeritus Jørgen Delman, Københavns Universitet (first opponent)
- Professor Genia Kostka, Freie Universität Berlin (second opponent)
- Associate Professor Koen Wellens, University of Oslo (committee administrator)
Chair of the defence
- Head of Department Rune Svarverud
Supervisors
- Professor II Anna Lisa Ahlers, University of Oslo