Instrument Innovation in an Environmental Lead State: 'New' Environmental Policy Instruments in the Netherlands

摘要

'New Environmental Policy Instruments' (NEPIs) have a vital role to play in the Netherlands, but should not be overemphasised. They remain part of a mix of instruments that retains a considerable role for the traditional command and control instruments. Dutch environmental innovation shows much evidence of gradual, adaptive learning stimulated by changes in governments, philosophies and external pressures, such as the Kyoto Agreement. Some instruments (that is, covenants) fit the Dutch institutional context and style, and its economic context, better than others, such as eco-labels.