Local Innovation Research Articles

Innovation in distributed energy services for sustainable development: case studies from sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract In this work, we explore how locally led innovations can advance sustainable energy access in low-income regions of Africa. Given the emphasis of the Sustainable Development Goals on the importance of affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy, we critically assess how local innovations can address the unique challenges of regions characterized by informality and low purchasing power and where existing grid-based electricity supply is weak. Through case studies, we highlight successful initiatives in expanding energy services access, including product bundling, pay-as-you-go financial models, leveraging existing supply chains, and securing strong funding support. Our findings underscore the importance of local ownership, contextual knowledge, and the adaptation of innovations to specific socio-economic and cultural conditions. By comparing the case studies, we identify common strategies that can contribute to the effectiveness of local innovations in improving energy access and sustainability that can inform efforts to replicate and scale up such initiatives. We conclude by identifying common elements contributing to the success of these cases and their significance, focusing on those crucial for achieving speed, scale, and impact.

Analysis of Local Innovation Productivity Agents Within Micro and Small Businesses in The Trade, Industry and Services Segments of The Federal District

Objective: To analyze the effects of the Local Innovation Agent – ​​Productivity program on the adoption of innovative practices and its impacts on the productivity of small businesses monitored in the Federal District in 2023. Theoretical Framework: Innovation is a central element for economic development, a strategy to make companies efficient and competitive in the markets in which they operate, through various types of changes in management and production processes, with results that impact productivity and commercial performance. Method: This research adopted a quantitative-exploratory approach based on the ALI Management System database, which uses the Innovation Radar tool to measure the impact on SMEs and bibliographic research focused on the culture of innovation in organizations. Results and Discussion: The results obtained revealed that the companies monitored during the program generally improved their scores in the dimensions analyzed. The results demonstrate that the commerce, industry and services sectors have different impacts and that innovation is still a topic that requires support and access for small businesses. Research Implications: The data collected in this study show the effectiveness of the Local Innovation Agent Program - Productivity in inducing the adoption of innovative practices by small businesses. It is a fact that by adopting measures to monitor entrepreneurs, it is possible to encourage reflection on the part of managers of these businesses so that they prioritize innovative measures that assist and result in business management capable of facing the adversities of market competition. Originality/Value: This study is valuable for analyzing the effectiveness of public innovation policies, with a focus on small businesses. It is clear that other studies are needed to compare results from different territories to better understand the needs of small businesses.

Knowledge source switching under state interventions of latecomer regions: A case study of Shenzhen

This paper aims to unpack the process and analyze the mechanisms of knowledge source switching in latecomer regions that have evolved from peripheral to core positions. Drawing on four decades of matched patent-company data from Shenzhen, we classify patents into various knowledge classifications and calculate their percentage changes to observe the dynamics of knowledge source switching. Furthermore, we employ Difference-in-Differences (DiD) estimation to examine the causal effects of state interventions on this dynamic. The findings indicate that Shenzhen's knowledge sources have switched from multinational corporations (MNCs) and foreign subsidiaries to global inventors. Notably, state interventions exhibit a significant positive causal effect on this dynamic, particularly following the implementation of independent innovation policies. These findings contribute to the cross-fertilization of regional innovation studies and the Global Production Networks (GPN) approach, highlight the critical role of the state in ensuring the right and dynamic mode of global knowledge sourcing and offer implications for local innovation policies in latecomer regions.

Impact of Local Government Debt on Regional Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Evidence from China

Local government debt serves as a crucial source of funding for local governments to provide public services and steer regional economic development. Exploring the impact of local government debt on regional innovation and entrepreneurship holds significant practical importance. This paper uses the data of 295 cities in China from 2015 to 2020 and uses the fixed effect model for empirical analysis. Our findings reveal a positive association between local government debt and regional innovation and entrepreneurship. This positive effect is attributed to the amplification of both the venture capital agglomeration effect and the technology agglomeration effect. Moreover, this relationship is particularly pronounced in cities characterized by high fiscal transparency, officials’ promotion pressure, and poor business environment. Ultimately, this paper enriches the existing literature by enhancing our comprehension of the economic implications of local government debt and the factors influencing regional innovation and entrepreneurship. Furthermore, it furnishes empirical evidence regarding the effectiveness of local government debt management in China.

Preface

Recent advancements in Mechanical Engineering, particularly in areas such as thermo-fluids and system design, have spurred the need for comprehensive discussions on the development of associated sciences and their diverse applications worldwide. This initiative aimed to foster global awareness among researchers, including those who participated in our inaugural conference, ICTFSD 2022, and others from India and abroad eager to join our collaborative platform for exchanging ideas and showcasing local innovations. Thus, the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra, Ranchi (India) organized the 2nd International Conference on Thermo-Fluids and System Design (ICTFSD) 2024 on April 4-5, 2024. The conference convened experts from academic institutions, research organizations, industries, and policymakers to facilitate in-depth interactions. Keynote speakers from India, the US, and Europe delivered talks on various applications within these fields. The conference was heavily supported through financial assistance from the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), Government of India. Partial financial support was also received from private partners viz. ANSYS Inc., Entuple Technologies and COMSOL Multiphysics Pvt. Ltd. ICTFSD 2024 aimed to promote industry-relevant research in academic and research institutions, establishing networks for collaborative research and development. It identified emerging research areas while showcasing high-quality papers spanning both emerging and traditional fields. All conference papers underwent rigorous peer review by a technical committee, with select papers earmarked for publication in the Journal of Physics Conference Series, IOP Publications. The conference conveners and organizing secretaries, who also served as Editors of the Conference Series, extend gratitude to the Morressier team and the IOP publications team for helping us in the entire review and publication process. We especially acknowledge the valuable inputs of the expert reviewers for their pivotal role in quality check of the manuscripts. We would like to extend our sincere appreciation to all the conference sponsors, whose financial contributions were instrumental in making the event a success. Appreciation also goes to all researchers who contributed papers and participated in ICTFSD 2024, the eminent guests who took their valuable time to join us in the event, as well as to the faculty and staff of our department whose efforts ensured the conference’s success. Looking ahead, we envision continued success for the ICTFSD conference series. List of ICTFSD 2024 Organising Committee is available in this Pdf.

THE HISTORICAL BEDROCK OF HOLY QUR’AN’S MANUSCRIPT IN MALAYSIA: A STUDY ON ITS STYLE OF CALLIGRAPHY AND ILLUMINATION

The focus of this article is to examine the historical foundation of the Holy Qur’an’s manuscript in Malaysia, with specific attention to its calligraphic style and illumination. Islamic calligraphy and manuscript traditions hold significant importance within the Malaysian Muslim heritage. These traditions have been inherited and evolved over generations, with the earliest examples of Arabic calligraphy being found in the Holy Qur'an, commonly inscribed in a script known as Kufic. The historical roots of Islam are deeply intertwined with the Holy Qur'an's manuscript, making it a primary source for understanding the advent of Islam. In this research, an extensive array of resources from the Islamic Art Museum Malaysia (IAMM) and the National Library of Malaysia (NLM) were utilised, alongside personal collections and secondary sources. Data analysis involved employing philological, comparative, deductive, and inductive methodologies. Through this approach, it was revealed that the production of Malay Holy Qur'an's manuscripts has been significantly influenced by local creative input and intellectual contributions from regions such as Turkey, China, and Persia. The study particularly accentuates the diverse calligraphic and illumination techniques across different nations. Notably, manuscripts from the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia, specifically from Malacca and Johor, exhibit distinct artistic qualities that set them apart from those originating from the east coast, including Kelantan and Terengganu. This underscores the prevalence of varied artistic expressions resulting from a broad spectrum of cultural interactions. The development of calligraphy and illumination methods in Malaysian Holy Qur'an's manuscripts mirrors a wide range of artistic expressions, which are shaped by both local innovation and broader Islamic intellectual traditions.

The dark side of local public sector innovation: insights from SAMPADE innovation

The dark side of local public sector innovation: insights from SAMPADE innovation

Influence Public Service Innovation to Public Services Value and Satisfaction to Form Community Passion Build Village (Studies in the Village Boat, Mengwi, Badung, Bali)

There are demanding conditions for innovation in public services in accordance with Regulation Government Number 38 Year 2017 about innovation local arrange how local governments carry out local innovation and policy scope This includes innovation in government structuring and service delivery The public of Kapal Village, Bali, is facing ongoing public service problems satisfying. Initial observations show problems such as waste management TPST that is not yet optimal and complaints regarding road maintenance and public facilities. This research aims to find out and analyze the influence of public service innovation towards public service delivery and public service value to build passion public build village. Studies on Ward boat, Subdistrict Mengwi Badung Regency Bali. Respondent in study This is Public Ward Boat, Mengwi District, Badung Regency, Bali Province with a sample size of 387. This research uses analysis Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) with SMARTPLS program assistance 4. The results of this research show that: Innovation public services significantly increase the value of public services, but not influential direct on satisfaction or excitement public. On the contrary, mark service public relate positive with satisfaction And excitement public, whereas satisfaction society does not affects arousal they in a way significant...

Climate risk and energy-saving technology innovation: Evidence from Chinese prefecture-level cities

In the face of the challenges of energy and environmental issues posed by climate risk, actively promoting energy-saving technology innovation is crucial in addressing climate risk. This study focuses on the electricity elements as the research object, and examines the impact of climate risk on energy-saving technology innovation by constructing a Spatial Durbin Model, using 2007–2021 data on temperature and electricity-saving technology patents at the prefecture-level cities in China. The findings reveal that climate risk promotes energy-saving technology innovation. Furthermore, it is discovered that climate risk exhibits significant positive spillover effects on energy-saving technology innovation through the decomposition of spatial effects, implying that the climate risk in neighboring areas has a notable positive influence on local energy-saving technology innovation. Mechanism tests indicate that climate risk directly promotes regional energy-saving technology innovation through increasing energy consumption, research and development (R&D) investment, and strengthening government environmental regulation. Particularly under the influence of climate risk, the increase in energy consumption and R&D investment more effectively drives regional energy-saving technology innovation. Moreover, variances in cities' geographical locations, carbon emission levels, electricity price levels, and electricity resource endowments result in substantial discrepancies in the effect of climate risk on energy-saving technology innovation. Based on these findings, Governments could incorporate climate risk into synergistic regional planning and enhance energy-saving technology innovation to address climate risk.

Technology foresight in Indonesia: developing scenarios to determine electrical vehicle research priority for future innovation

Purpose The purpose of this study is to determine research areas that are most favorable in supporting the development and manufacturing of electric vehicle (EV) components locally in Indonesia for 2025–2035. Therefore, will provide direction for the formulation of the related government policies and programs. Consequently, an EV technology research priority must be identified. Design/methodology/approach A technology foresight (TF) procedure which consists of a STEEPV analysis, followed by scenarios development and expert elicitation techniques, was conducted to determine an EV technology research priority that may direct future specific local component innovations, and therefore businesses. Findings The results of this study indicate that research in a range of EV battery technologies, technologies relating to a variety of key components (to increase local content) and autonomous systems were important to support the local development and manufacturing of EV components in Indonesia. Research limitations/implications In this study, the scenarios development process was conducted based on selected available experts, mostly internally from BRIN. Some biased opinions may be present. Originality/value There have not been any TF studies regarding the development of EV technology research priority in Indonesia.

Government spending efficiency, fiscal decentralization and regional innovation capability: Evidence from China

Improving regional innovation is the key to achieving high-quality development, and regional innovation requires government support. However, a notable research gap exists in studies examining the relationship between government spending efficiency and regional innovation. Based on the panel data of 30 provinces in China from 2000 to 2021, this study verifies the positive impact of government spending efficiency on regional innovation capacity and its mechanism. Notably, the Consumer Price Index has been selected as an instrumental variable through a rigorous theoretical analysis to address the potential endogeneity and ensure the robustness of the findings. The findings also suggest that government spending efficiency can do better in promoting regional innovation capability in higher-investment preference areas, less financial development level regions. Further analysis reveals that human capital and advanced industrial structure play a great channel effect, while fiscal decentralization positively moderates the relationship between government spending efficiency and regional innovation capability. This study deepens our understanding of the impact of fiscal policy on local innovation development from different perspectives. Furthermore, it provides a reference to developing countries on the importance of local government in optimizing regional innovation.

Myth and Cyber: A Study of the Narrative and Visual Language of Chinese Cyberpunk Anime Films

Abstract The cyberpunk genre started a new trend in Chinese anime movies after 2020, represented by the hugely commercially successful New Gods: Nezha Reborn (2021). Unlike Western cyberpunk, which focuses on portraying the future as a subcategory of science fiction, Chinese cyberpunk anime chooses to look back, fusing ancient myths with cyborgs, which is called myth-cyberpunk, reconstructing traditional Chinese culture, and broadening the boundaries of cyberpunk. This paper focuses on spatial construction and characterization in Chinese cyberpunk anime films. It traces the influence of Western cyberculture on Chinese animation and the uniqueness and local innovation of the Chinese side. Importantly, it examines the role of audience participation in the processes of cultural encoding and decoding, as proposed by Stuart Hall, to understand the dynamics behind the growing popularity of cyber animation in China. This paper aims to interpret the evolution of the cyberpunk style in Chinese animations, its reception, and its deeper societal motivations, offering insights into the unique allure of Chinese cyberpunk anime within the contemporary socio-cultural context.

Revaluating the Sustainable Development Thesis: exploring the moderating influence of Technological Innovation on the impact of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) on Green Growth in the OECD Countries

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) advocate for advancing green growth, a concept that balances economic prosperity with environmental protection. At the core of this vision are principles of sustainable consumption, production, and energy usage, all aimed at mitigating climate change and safeguarding ecosystems. This study investigates how technological innovation influences the relationship between Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and green growth in OECD member countries. Specifically, we examine two facets of green growth: production-based CO2 productivity and demand-based CO2 productivity. We employ empirical analyses using the EKC and STIRPAT framework, which includes Ordinary Least Squares (OLS), smoothed instrumental-variables quantile regression (SIVQR), and System GMM methodologies, to uncover significant insights. Our analysis reveals that FDI impedes green growth, while technological innovation is pivotal in enhancing it. This pattern holds steady across various time frames and renewable energy sources. Furthermore, our findings indicate that combining FDI and technological advancement leads to heightened production-based CO2 productivity but diminished demand-based CO2 productivity. We also identify the presence of an environmental Kuznets curve for production-based CO2 productivity. Adding to significant scientific value by demonstrating how technological innovation moderates FDI's impact on green growth in OECD countries, we advocate for fostering collaborative partnerships between foreign investors and local innovators to leverage global expertise while advancing green objectives. Additionally, policy interventions should focus on stimulating demand for eco-friendly products and services to bolster demand-based CO2 productivity.

AI-Driven Governance: Transforming Public and Addressing Legacy Issues in Post-Colonial Africa

This paper examines the transformational potentials that artificial intelligence (AI) may hold to reshape our public policies and methods of administration in the unique post-colonial context of Africa. We thus seek to unearth how AI technologies can be employed at a continental scale in the remedy of legacy issues arising from colonialism including; governance inefficiency, literacy gaps, and inequitable service delivery across the continent. From critically analyzing the application of AI in various public sectors, our research seeks to unveil opportunities for AI in inclusive decision-making processes to improve transparency as well as tailoring public service delivery to the diversified needs of African populations. The paper describes the way forward in the adoption of AI solutions that involve issues on a variety of considerations, infrastructure requirements, financial obstacles, and capacity development, among others. Highlighting the potential of AI in governance, this research underscores the place of local innovation stakeholder engagement, and international collaboration in assuring that AI plays out as a development lever for both sustainable development and empowerment in post-colonial Africa.

A Comprehensive Review of Malaria Control Strategies in Africa: Historical Perspectives, Policy Frameworks, Innovations, and Future Directions

Malaria remains a significant public health challenge in Africa, affecting children under five and pregnant women. Historically, malaria has impacted Africa from ancient Egyptian times to the colonial era, with early control efforts often thwarted by limited resources and political instability. Today, Africa accounts for approximately 94% of global malaria cases and deaths, primarily affecting children under five and pregnant women. Despite progress in some regions, challenges such as financial constraints, inadequate healthcare infrastructure, and the need for robust community engagement persist. This review evaluates the role of African governments and regional bodies in malaria control, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive policy frameworks, effective governance, and well-structured National Malaria Control Programs. Innovative strategies and technologies, such as malaria vaccines, genetically modified mosquitoes, and digital tools, offer new avenues for malaria control. However, challenges in implementation, funding, and acceptance need addressing. Strengthening healthcare infrastructure, capacity building, community health workers, and public awareness campaigns are crucial for malaria control. Ongoing research and development are essential for advancing malaria control efforts, and indigenous knowledge and local innovations should complement modern approaches for culturally sensitive interventions. In conclusion, achieving a malaria-free Africa demands a multifaceted approach involving historical insights, innovative strategies, strengthened healthcare systems, community engagement, sustainable funding, and continuous research. The collective efforts of governments, international partners, researchers, and communities are pivotal in overcoming malaria and securing a healthier future for millions across the continent. Keywords: Malaria, Africa: Historical Perspectives, Policy Frameworks, Innovations, Future Directions

Peran Seni Dalam Mempertahankan Identitas Budaya Lokal Di Era Modern

This study is a systematic literature review utilizing sources from Scopus, DOAJ, and Google Scholar, focusing on publications from 2013 to 2023. The findings assert the significant and relevant role of cultural arts in preserving local identities in the modern era. Cultural arts serve as social cohesion agents, safeguarding local traditions and values amidst the changes and influences of globalization and modernization. Various forms of artistic expression such as painting, music, dance, and literature play a crucial role in strengthening and preserving local identities, fostering awareness of cultural diversity within the dynamics of the modern world. Cultural arts also facilitate dialogue between local traditions and modern innovations, enabling productive interaction between existing and emerging elements, and stimulating critical reflection on the interpretation of traditional values in the evolving context of time. However, there are gaps in this research highlighting the lack of in-depth studies on the impact of modern technology on cultural artistic expression and local identity, which require further attention in the future.

Impact of Import and Export on Innovation Efficiency in Japan

Japan's economic development has always been a research hotspot in the academic community. Japan experienced a huge trade deficit in 2022, and in the four years before 2022, Japan's import and export fluctuations were very balanced and structurally stable. Based on the fact that Japan will experience a huge trade deficit in 2022, this paper analyzes the relationship and current situation of innovation and trade in Japan with existing theories and data. As an old developed country, Japan is hardly affected by the local competition brought by the trade impact on its local innovation at the present stage. Moreover, the independent research and development of its advantageous industries led by enterprises makes its advantageous industries more competitive in the trade market and obtain more export opportunities. More export opportunities promote innovation in large Japanese companies and create a virtuous cycle of innovation and exports in Japan.

Peran Tokoh Masyarakat dalam Pelestarian Kearifan Lokal Pasca Ketiadaan Kepala Adat di Desa Adat Cireundeu Cimahi

Establishing a cultural community becomes a valuable asset capable of supporting the dissemination of cultural values. The community in Kampung Adat Cireundeu Village, Cimahi City has long upheld traditional values. This research aims to explain how the Cireundeu community can preserve and maintain its culture despite the absence of an official adat leader. Using a qualitative method with a case study approach, data collection techniques were derived from interviews, observations, and documentation studies. This research found that the Cireundeu community successfully overcame this challenge through collective leadership mechanisms and the use of modern technology. Community figures, including elders and the deputy adat leader, play a crucial role in preserving customs and traditions through the effective distribution of responsibilities and active involvement in various customary activities. Despite facing some obstacles, such as uncertainty in decision-making and suboptimal coordination, the Cireundeu community has adopted adaptive strategies that allow them to maintain cultural preservation and ensure their social continuity. This research demonstrates that even without an Indigenous leader, community strength, local figures, and local innovation can support cultural preservation in sustaining the Indigenous community.

Tourist Walking Trails in Italy and Argentina: Navigating Political Recognition and Socio-Territorial Innovation

Tourism is often considered the world’s biggest industry, as it contributes approximately 10% of the global GDP. Despite this economic impact, tourism also includes important critical issues like territorial inequalities, diminishment of local engagement, and has high environmental and cultural impacts. This study investigates the rise of “walking trail tourism”, a niche sector where the respect for local communities and the environmental sustainability are particularly important. The focus is on Italy and Argentina: two countries with very different political, tourism, and biophysical backgrounds, but with the common recent development of walking trails and forms of social innovation. This study explores three main questions: the trends in walking trail tourism, the role of these trails in fostering local social innovation, and the influence of national policies in this domain. The study combines historical-statistical analysis, political–legislative review, and interviews with experts in order to assess all these aspects. Findings reveal significant social innovation trends within walking trail tourism but also challenges in territorial coordination and the establishment of national governance. Italy and Argentina are both characterized by an opposite situation regarding walking trails: there are several local initiatives but a lack of national guidelines in the former, and some good national policies but few bottom-up initiatives in the latter.

Patents as a quality requirement to attract venture capital for amazonian bioindustries

Patents are important elements for the protection of industrial property, in addition, studies have revealed that they can also be allies in signaling the quality of innovations with the aim of attracting private risk capital – venture capital. This is a relevant aspect because for companies to generate innovations they need to be able to expand their investments. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze patents from the perspective of quality signaling and mitigation of information asymmetry to attract venture capital investments for bioindustries in Amazonas. A qualitative bibliographical review research was used in which the results indicate that patents can be important quality signals for venture capital investors, however, when analyzing Amazonian bioindustries, a low number of patents is found, which may be a reflection of the technological level with low and medium complexity of local innovations, associated with bureaucracy and maintenance of patent records and local entrepreneurs' perception of the low added value that a patent can have for their business.