ABSTRACT
This conclusion presents some closing thoughts on the concepts discussed in the preceding chapters of this book. The book highlights the importance of recognizing different styles of infrastructure management shaped by locally specific social and technical contexts. The re-ordering of urban technical networks creates the potential to develop new styles of management that keep a downward pressure on resource use and its associated environmental impacts. The transition of urban infrastructure systems in Europe is, at the same time, giving valuable insight into the forces that shape environmental innovation. The voices of private utility companies, environmental groups, transport providers, local authorities, housing associations, technology manufacturers, architects, developers, investors, all types of building occupiers and other urban actors all shape the debate on sustainable cities. The promotion of sustainable infrastructure and cities must start with a contested vision of both network management and the city.
