Analysis On Policy Network Of LPG Public Transport Project In Guangzhou

Vehicle emissions and consumption of large quantities of oil in cities have aroused extensive attention all over the world. In practice, clean alternative fuel vehicles(CAFVs) have been one important ways to reduce pollution emissions,improve energy structure and ease the country's energy crisis.Policy network theory has developed from 1960's and 1970's in Western countries. It provided a new theoretical model and research framework for researcher to analyze relations between interest groups more clear. However, there are few works in using the method of policy network to evaluate the results of public policy in China. Hence, this paper try to use this method to analyze policy process of application of CAFVs in Guangzhou, and it may has important practical and theoretical significance.The methods of case study and empirical research are used , and other theories, such as political science,Economics and related disciplines theory, are also used for reference in this paper . Based on a simple analysis of China's participation into public policy, this paper first analyzes the policy background and project process of LPG(liquefied petroleum gas) vehicles in Guangzhou. In accordance with the research needs,the policy process is divided into four stages: issues formation period,policy decision-making programs period,the implementation of policies period,and the policies improved and revised period. Then, the paper analyzes the relevant interests between each group. Referring to classification methods of Rhodes & Marsh and analysis means of Marsh & Smith, we investigate types,characteristics and interactions of the policy network in application of CAFVs in Guangzhou. Finally,we evaluate the results of policy in achievements of objective,applications and effects of LPG. The analyses indicated:1. In public policy process, core interest groups have the power to determining the policies and the core organization of the group determines the structure of benefit distribution and the development of policy. Although the Chinese government has erected a system for the multi-interest groups enter into the public policy process, but "strong government-weak society" model remains yet. Thus multiple interest groups have less impact on the public policy. 2. Because of public goods characteristics of atmospheric pollution, promoting clean alternative fuel vehicles must be an action of government in the first. The increased environmental benefits and social welfare are main revenue of government. Recognize of the revenue is main excitation of government. Studies show that how to minimize lost interests of blocked group and the recognition of future benefit of interest group may be the key to success.3. Author pointes that network theory assists to analysis the policy process and the impact of relevant interest groups of LPG vehicles in Guangzhou. Based on understanding and trust between the relevant interest groups and the government, the rational policies of LPG vehicles were made up.It is necessary that governments should work out clear policies to encourage the relevant interest groups to participate, establish developed policy network. Those will solve public problems in lower cost and more democratic way. Meanwhile, the infrastructure, the coordination and convergence of different parts are the main factors to the development of clean alternative fuel vehicles in long-term.