The role of innovators in the introduction of preventive environmental policy in local government

This article discusses the role of innovators in the introduction of “preventive environmental” policy in local government in the Netherlands. With the help of the configuration theory of Mintzberg and the innovation theory of Rogers a description is given of making this new prevention policy within the governmental organization. This process of change of five case studies is presented: two cases of provinces and three cases of municipalities. Special attention is paid to the role of innovators. The question to be answered is how innovators use networks within their organization to secure acceptance for their ideas. Finally, the authors summarize the success factors for innovators and add some recommendations for innovators within governmental organizations.