How Do Community Stakeholder Groups Shape Local GHG Inventories? Evidence from U.S. Local Governments

Community stakeholders play a pivotal role in shaping cities’ decisions about whether to measure local GHG emissions. Using survey data collected at two points in time, this study examines how varying levels of support from different types of stakeholder groups influence cities’ decisions to manage their GHG inventories. Notably, we find higher levels of performance measurement activity in cities where support from the public and environmental groups for climate initiatives is perceived as strong, as well as in cities that perceive opposition from business and neighborhood associations. Drawing on public management theories, we offer insights into stakeholder influence in local GHG emission measurement efforts and identify factors driving the advancement of these practices.