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Research article2013Peer reviewed

Place Perceptions and Controversies over Forest Management: Exploring a Swedish Example

Beland Lindahl, Karin; Baker, Susan; Waldenström, Cecilia

Abstract

This article explores the role of place perceptions in controversies over forest management. A neo-Durkheimian approach to frame analysis is used to explore actors' perceptions of places, forests and policy. This is combined with an examination of actors' varying capacity to influence policy-making using an interpretive policy analysis framework. Empirically, the analysis investigates a controversy over natural resource management in Jokkmokk municipality, northern Sweden. The research draws upon qualitative data collected from a variety of state, economic and social actors. It shows how a systematic analysis of place-related frames can elucidate the policy-making process. It demonstrates how conflicting place meanings divide actors, their frames and interpretive communities. However, social organization and loyalties are also important in shaping actions. The analytical framework offers a sociologically based approach to exploring the role of place perceptions in natural resource politics. It facilitates in-depth understanding of policy-making and may thus contribute to strengthening efforts to manage conflicts and to develop equitable governance systems for natural resource management.

Keywords

place perceptions; forest conflicts; frame analysis; interpretive policy analysis

Published in

Journal of Environmental Policy and Planning
2013, volume: 15, number: 2, pages: 201-223
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD

SLU Authors

Associated SLU-program

SLU Future Forests

UKÄ Subject classification

Environmental Sciences

Publication identifier

  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/1523908X.2012.753316

Permanent link to this page (URI)

https://res.slu.se/id/publ/54429