Exploring collaboration dynamics and representation in environmental justice councils

Abstract

Abstract A collaboration's ability to convene diverse stakeholders and knowledge is often associated with success. However, a more nuanced evaluation of representation is needed to understand if meeting‐level factors (e.g., who attends as well as including facilitators or external technical experts) influence representation. This article examines representation via two‐way communication in meetings to explore: (1) patterns of discussion across sectors (i.e., appointed citizens, agency delegates, and external stakeholders), (2) how patterns of discussion change given attendance differences across sectors, and (3) how meeting‐level factors associate with observed discussion patterns. Using meeting‐level data, across three US, state‐level, legislatively‐mandated environmental justice councils, results suggest: (1) sectors have different patterns of how much and with whom they discuss, (2) retreat meetings increase discussion for all, and (3) other meeting‐level factors and discussion patterns are narrowly focused to specific sectors. The discussion applies the findings of this study to the broader field of collaborative governance.