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Vancouver’s “EcoDensity†Planning Initiative: A Struggle over Hegemony?

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  • Marit Rosol

Abstract

The proclaimed aim of EcoDensity, an initiative of the former mayor of Vancouver, Canada, was the achievement of a more sustainable city development through densification of existing neighbourhoods. Since the invention of EcoDensity in summer 2006 it has become a highly debated topic. This paper aims at a critical analysis of how a planning strategy of densification tried to tie itself onto a discourse of sustainability, and also how it had to re-invent and reform itself through contestation and public debate in order to gain acceptance. Thus, the development of the strategy and its contestation are the focus of this paper. Theoretically informed by the theory on hegemony by Laclau and Mouffe, the paper shows why EcoDensity has been—although eventually approved by Council—a failing hegemonic strategy. By referring to a theory on hegemony, the paper theoretically captures practices and struggles around a particular ‘urban sustainability fix’.

Suggested Citation

  • Marit Rosol, 2013. "Vancouver’s “EcoDensity†Planning Initiative: A Struggle over Hegemony?," Urban Studies, Urban Studies Journal Limited, vol. 50(11), pages 2238-2255, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:urbstu:v:50:y:2013:i:11:p:2238-2255
    DOI: 10.1177/0042098013478233
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Peter Brand, 2007. "Green Subjection: The Politics of Neoliberal Urban Environmental Management," International Journal of Urban and Regional Research, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 31(3), pages 616-632, September.
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    Cited by:

    1. Pablo Mendez & Noah Quastel, 2015. "Subterranean Commodification: Informal Housing and the Legalization of Basement Suites in Vancouver from 1928 to 2009," International Journal of Urban and Regional Research, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 39(6), pages 1155-1171, November.
    2. Chung-Shing Chan, 2019. "Which city theme has the strongest local brand equity for Hong Kong: green, creative or smart city?," Place Branding and Public Diplomacy, Palgrave Macmillan, vol. 15(1), pages 12-27, March.

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