Housing managers as middle actors implementing sustainable housing policies in Finland

Abstract

ABSTRACTImplementing policies for sustainability transitions calls for actors that translate policy aims into practical solutions. This is particularly important in cases where policies require the application of new technologies. An example of such a policy is the requirement to install apartment-level water meters with the purpose of enabling fair invoicing and the saving of water. Economic incentives are expected to fulfil the objectives. In Finland, professional housing managers provide expert services that are crucial for implementing the policy requirements on metering in buildings. In this, they become middle actors between policy, technology, residents and their practices. In this study, the role of housing managers and their relationship to the different rationales that are used to justify decisions on apartment-level water metering is explored. The study shows that, although housing managers emphasize economic aspects, they also recognize technological and equity aspects. This raises questions of how middle actors should be considered in developing policies for sustainable housing. The results suggest that progress could be made by recognizing them in policy development and by raising their awareness as true intermediaries in advancing wider sustainability goals.