ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book presents the research design, which generated the data for the study. It presents the sampling strategy as well as methodological reflections, methods used, and difficulties faced in the process. The book develops the theoretical framework of urban resource commons. It discusses the empirical findings of the three resource systems, energy, green spaces, and water, and the capability to self-organise in the cities. The book considers labour markets and shows how spatial attributes are integrated into the function of the institutions. It examines an institutional setting for market-based mechanisms and shows how European and national policies have effects on it, whether they are place-based or place-blind. The book discusses the local level and shows how socio-ecological transitions affect several levels and how they are entangled.
