Abstract
Applying Kearns's concept of the “accountability environment, ” this study of a reform of solid waste policy finds that the relationship between the state and local jurisdictions can best be described as structured by mechanisms of emergent accountability. After distinguishing hierarchical from emergent accountability, the author tests the following hypothesis: Under a structure of emergent accountability, progress toward a stated goal will be partial, as initial success plateaus short of full attainment. The findings support the hypothesis. It is recommended that future research on accountability relate the structure of the accountability environment to the level of outcomes achieved.
Get full access to this article
View all access options for this article.
