Unraveling the interplay between collaborative governance and experimentation for transformative potential in circular water systems

Summary

Freshwater availability is a critical climate change challenge in coastal delta regions. This challenge requires a transformative change toward circular water management. While experimentation and collaborative governance are recognized as enablers of transformative change, their interaction remains complex and insufficiently understood. Experimentation offers flexibility and learning processes with innovative solutions, whereas collaborative governance is based on collective decision-making and is often resistant to change. Despite the differences, both concepts complement each other and jointly shape the transformative potential of water systems. This paper unravels the interplay between collaborative dynamics and experimentation, advancing transformative potential in circular water systems. We operationalize the framework of Emerson et al. to analyze a Dutch case study in which a diverse actor network engages in water experiments and other initiatives aimed at developing a circular and resilient system. Data were collected through document analysis, four workshops, and 10 in-depth interviews. The findings show that the transformative potential of a water system depends on key collaborative dynamics, including open and transparent deliberation to address conflicting interests, developing a mutual understanding, and determining collective actions. Deliberation also plays a central role in fostering mutual trust and shared commitment among stakeholders. In addition, clearly defined leadership, flexible procedural and institutional arrangements for experimentation, and the availability of financial and human resources are crucial to support the transformative potential of water systems. Finally, the study demonstrates that experiments contribute to transformative potential when they function as collaborative spaces in which stakeholders jointly engage in advancing a circular water system.