The goal of this research project was to assist with the effective implementation of community sustainability plans (CSPs) and Local Agenda 21s (LA21) through the examination of governance structures and outcomes. The main objective was to develop and test theoretical frameworks on the relationships between collaborative strategic plans, implementation structure features (and configurations) and two types of outcomes (plan and partner outcomes). The project drew from and contributed to the strategic management, sustainability management, cross-sector partnerships, urban studies, sustainability justice and environmental studies literatures.
The practice-oriented objective of this project was to share the findings with municipal decision-makers, with the idea in mind that by making better strategies and structures, local governments can achieve better results. Our work was done in collaboration with practitioners, and aimed to help achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals #11, #13 and #17.
Project LA21 wrapped up in 2021.