Environmental sustainability and management reform in local government : An empirical analysis

A new stage of environmental policy making in local government has emerged as managerial reforms to improve the performance of local government in England seek to secure sustainability alongside more traditional measures such as economy, efficiency and effectiveness. In this article we present the first empirical test of the relationship between environmental sustainability and managerial reform, using the example of Best Value. Data are drawn from a large survey of 706 officers in 102 English local authorities. Statistical results suggest that sustainability, inspired by managerial reform, is assisted by favourable environmental attitudes and the presence of strong corporate values but is frustrated by poor integration and departmental cultures towards sustainability. An agenda of further research is offered in conclusion. © The Policy Press, 2005.