Public participation in environmental decision-making: A water sector perspective

Public participation in water governance and management has evolved significantly, with various institutions and measures established to enhance public input. This study employs a two-step qualitative approach, combining stakeholder perspectives with the International Association for Public Participation (IAP2) Spectrum and the Aarhus Convention as analytical frameworks. The findings reveal that public participation in decision-making and implementation processes in Ireland remains a work in progress, with significant gaps in fully integrating public perspectives into water governance and management decisions. Drawing on international best practices and stakeholder insights, this study proposes targeted interventions to promote inclusive participation, including the integration of digital technologies to enhance accessibility and transparency while balancing digital and traditional engagement approaches. It also underscores the role of environmental and sustainability education in promoting long-term public commitment and shared responsibility. • Public Participation in Ireland is complex, involving multi-level interactions among diverse stakeholders. • Legal ambiguities and GDPR lead stakeholders to work in silos or remain uncertain about Public Participation. • Public participation has gained increasing recognition due to reforms under the 2 nd RBMP (2018–2022). • LAWPRO Catchment Community Fora aims to enhance Public Participation in decision-making. • Water policy and implementation actions require attention to diversity and inclusion.