Enterprise's sustainable innovation in China: practice and theoretical research

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to increase understanding of the real situation of Enterprise's Sustainable Innovation (ESI) in China.Design/methodology/approachFirst, the paper analyzes the practice of Chinese ESI in the past 30 years, and then reviews research results of the topic in China, by the authors and by other Chinese scholars. Finally, it provides the future prospects for ESI in China.FindingsThe practice of Chinese ESI started in 1978 when this country began reform, and two stages of Chinese ESI practice has been summarized. Otherwise, six major characteristics have been highlighted. China is one of the earliest countries that began to research on ESI and has achieved significant results since 1995. The paper summarizes major research findings of ESI in China, which can be divided into two categories. Especially, it stresses that one of the distinguishing achievements is research on mechanisms of ESI in China.Research limitations/implicationsThe research on ESI in China is initially implemented based on Chinese practice. So, future research may explore whether the research results could be suitable for abroad, or not.Originality/valueThis original paper analyzes ESI practice and research findings in China, and may have value in helping people to understand ESI's real situation.