Sustainable Innovation Research Articles

Cherishing Professional Success and Personal Fulfillment: Resilience as a Pivotal Leadership Competency for Clinical Pharmacologists and Beyond.

Resilience is a critical leadership competency directly linked to engagement, sustainable innovation, and productivity. This Commentary presents resilience concepts using the Benatti Resiliency Model®, which comprises five inter-related dimensions: Well-being, Self-awareness, Brand, Connection, and Innovation. Trust is discussed as a critical leadership competency, with three levels: self-trust, trust in relationships at the team level, and community trust. The concept of Ikigai, representing the intersection of what one loves, what one is good at, what the world needs, and what one can be paid for, is discussed as a framework for self-awareness, brand development, development planning, and mentoring. Time and energy management using the Eisenhower matrix is highlighted as a strategy to build resilience, manage stress, enhance productivity, and prevent burnout. Taken together, the strategies discussed in this commentary are intended to unlock the transformative potential of resilience for sustainable innovation and impact within and beyond the dynamic and interdisciplinary field of clinical pharmacology, ultimately enabling professional success and personal fulfillment.

Ethnographic Insights into Winedocking: Bridging Wine Tourism, Producers, and Travelers for Immersive Experiences

This article examines winedocking, an innovative blend of wine tourism and boondocking, where travelers camp overnight at vineyard properties. Using ethnographic methods, it explores the behaviors and motivations of winedockers and producers, revealing how this practice enhances visitor experiences and economic opportunities for wineries. Winedocking appeals to modern travelers seeking sustainability, authenticity, and adventure. Travelers enjoy immersive connections with winemakers, while producers benefit from additional revenue and visibility. Fieldwork across U.S. wine regions, including interviews with 47 travelers and 12 winery owners, highlights the mutual benefits and challenges of this trend. The study situates winedocking within the broader wine tourism landscape, demonstrating its potential to drive sustainable tourism and innovation in the industry. It provides insights for producers and stakeholders, emphasizing winedocking’s role in meeting evolving consumer preferences and supporting local economies.

Fostering a Sustainable Ecosystem in Digitised Higher Education Through Circular Economy Models

In recent studies of competency-based curriculum, there have been five key circular competencies in education: a. systematic thinking and problem solving, b. collaboration and ethical leadership, c. innovation and creativity, d. digital and technical literacy, e., sustainability awareness and global responsibility. These had been identified through research-based studies in India. We set out to assess to what extent this set of five competencies can be followed and implemented by integrating a circular economy. Circular economy (CE) models have revolutionised entrepreneurial sustainability by fostering resource efficiency, waste reduction, and innovation across various sectors. As the global shift toward sustainability redefines how businesses and institutions approach growth, CE has emerged as a transformative framework for minimising waste and creating long-term value. Concurrently, digital education advancements are pivotal in preparing entrepreneurs to embrace and implement these sustainable practices effectively. Artificial intelligence, blockchain, and immersive learning platforms are examples of emerging technologies that are changing educational approaches and making learning experiences more dynamic and accessible while meeting the changing needs of sustainable business. This paper explores the synergy between circular economy principles and digital education innovations, analysing their collective impact on transforming entrepreneurial sustainability. It highlights key strategies, technological advancements, and best practices that empower entrepreneurs to integrate sustainability into business models. Furthermore, the paper discusses challenges and opportunities within this paradigm shift, offering insights into how digital education can accelerate the adoption of circular economy frameworks. This study underscores the potential for a more resilient and regenerative entrepreneurial ecosystem by bridging the gap between sustainability and technological innovation.

Socio-Technical Imaginaries and Techno-Social Territories: Connecting Sustainability and Open Innovation in Agroecology

Socio-Technical Imaginaries and Techno-Social Territories: Connecting Sustainability and Open Innovation in Agroecology

Integrated Biotechnological Strategies for the Sustainability and Quality of Mediterranean Sea Bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) and Sea Bream (Sparus aurata)

This review examines the current state of the supply chain management for Dicentrarchus labrax (sea bass) and Sparus aurata (sea bream), two key commercial fish species in the Mediterranean. It provides a comprehensive analysis of sustainable innovations in aquaculture, processing, and packaging, with particular attention to circular economy-based biopreservation techniques. A major focus is on the Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) system, an advanced farming approach that enhances sustainability, promotes circular resource utilization, and improves fish welfare. By fostering ecological balance through the co-cultivation of multiple species, IMTA contributes to the overall quality of fish products for human consumption. Beyond aquaculture, the review addresses the critical challenge of food loss, which stems from the high perishability of fish during storage and processing. In this regard, it highlights recent advancements in biopreservation strategies, including the application of antagonistic microorganisms, their metabolites, and plant-derived extracts. Particular attention is given to the development of edible antimicrobial films, with a focus on the valorization of citrus processing by-products for their production. By centering on innovations specific to the Mediterranean context, this review underscores that a holistic, integrative approach to supply chain management is essential for transitioning the aquaculture sector toward greater efficiency and sustainability.

Methodology for selecting and implementing priorities for smart regional specialization

Purpose: is to develop the methodology for identifying long-term priorities for smart specialization in the regions and creating "transformational roadmap" for their implementation in the Russian context. This approach is designed to foster sustainable innovation ecosystems and achieve the country’s technological sovereignty.Methods: the research is based on the comparative analysis of international experience in implementing regional innovation policies and smart specialization strategies in the EU, the USA, and China. The study employs qualitative, systemic, and structural-logical analysis methods. The proposed methodology draws on the experience of regional strategy development and a series of expert interviews with representatives of regional authorities.Results: the authors propose the methodology for applying the smart specialization concept in the Russian regions, structured into four key stages: selecting smart specialization priorities, assessing regional potential for industry transformation, forming a portfolio of projects, and their implementation. Additionally, the study systematizes approaches to identifying the potential for smart transformation and selecting suitable projects within a region. Special attention is given to the process of "entrepreneurial discovery" and the development of "transformational roadmaps", which integrate both scientific and technological priorities and the unique characteristics of the regions.Conclusions and Relevance: the proposed methodology enables Russian regions to systematically and structurally organize the process of defining innovation development priorities, aligning both with national strategic goals for technological leadership and local specificities. This contributes to the formation of sustainable innovation ecosystems, the integration of science, business, and government, and the achievement of technological sovereignty. The practical significance of the study lies in the applicability of the methodology for developing regional smart specialization strategies, which can serve as a foundation for long-term economic growth and national competitiveness in emerging markets.

LEVERAGING DIGITAL PRODUCT AND PROMOTION INNOVATION TO ENHANCE COMPETITIVENESS IN SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES (SMES)

This study explores the role of product innovation and digital promotion in enhancing the competitiveness of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). In globalization and digital transformation, SMEs face significant challenges, including shifting consumer preferences and heightened competition. Product innovation is critical in adding value and differentiating SME products. Meanwhile, digital promotion provides a cost-effective avenue for SMEs to reach broader audiences than traditional media. A quantitative research approach was employed, utilizing a survey method targeting SMEs across various sectors. The sampling used the total sampling method, with a sample of 70 people. The total sampling technique was used, and data were collected through Likert scale-based questionnaires. The findings reveal that the synergy between product innovation and effective digital promotion strategies significantly enhances SME competitiveness, increased sales, stronger customer loyalty, and improved market positioning. These results highlight the importance of adopting sustainable innovation practices and leveraging digital platforms strategically to thrive in an ever-changing market landscape. This study offers practical insights for SMEs to strengthen their market presence and maintain a competitive edge.

Unraveling the relationship between corporate governance and green innovation: a systematic literature review

Purpose This study aims to identify the relationship between corporate governance (CG) and green innovation (GIN), along with its enablers, through a systematic literature review (SLR). The purpose is fulfilled using an SLR added with a few bibliometric analysis approaches for analyzing 48 peer-reviewed articles published in the English language between 1995 and 2023. Design/methodology/approach A total of 48 papers are shortlisted using online databases based on the Prisma method for keywords “Corporate governance” and “green innovation” or “sustainable innovation”. The authors propose the results with the help of a comparative analysis of the scope, methodologies used, results and context of the study. The methodology also uses initial bibliometric analysis using VOSViewer to establish the relevance of keywords and citations of the existing literature and their results. Findings This study demonstrates a positive correlation between CG and GIN and also finds 14 factors impacting the relationship. Innovation is driven by introducing transparency, accountability, environmental, social and governance initiatives, performance, organizational culture, research and development investments and digital technology interventions. This study also demonstrates the positive impact of external forces such as government policies, mergers and acquisitions that consider sustainable efforts. Practical implications This study has provided pivotal insights for organizations interested in improving their sustainability. The industries can use their CG mechanism and GIN strategies to improve sustainability, whereas academia can leverage the results to explore cross-disciplinary studies, including sustainability among corporations. Originality/value This study is a unique effort combining CG, innovation and sustainable efforts. The authors could not find any extent of work done in the congestion of CG and GIN together considering the SLR, making this a unique and original study.

Sustainable innovations in digital twin technology: a systematic review about energy efficiency and indoor environment quality in built environment

Sustainable innovations in digital twin technology: a systematic review about energy efficiency and indoor environment quality in built environment

Enhancing the transformative potential of sustainability innovations: An application of the values-rules-knowledge framework.

To respond to global sustainability challenges with transformative solutions, there is a need to pinpoint the necessary and sufficient conditions that enhance the transformative potential of sustainability innovations. To this end, we examined 129 sustainability innovations in two European Biosphere Reserves, and analysed (1) their transformative potential, assessed based on a leverage points perspective, and (2) their supportive conditions (i.e. decision contexts, or constellations of values, rules and knowledge). Specifically, we used social network analyses to characterise different rules, or governance arrangements in the two Biosphere Reserves. By comparing the decision contexts of transformative and incremental innovations, we provide empirical evidence that plural values, coproduction and networks that are diverse, collaborative and influential, enable transformative innovations. Shallow leverage points seem insufficient but necessary to operationalise transformative change. Future research should explore the co-evolution of decision contexts and transformative potential, to better understand how to shift incremental to transformative innovations.

Advancing circular economy in the equipment manufacturing sector: The role of environmental management systems, innovation and policy support.

Advancing circular economy in the equipment manufacturing sector: The role of environmental management systems, innovation and policy support.

Not Just Cocreation: Exploring the Shifting Interaction Logics in Sustainable Innovation

ABSTRACTSustainable innovations that address complex societal and environmental challenges require interactions between organisations. Yet previous research demonstrates that these interactions are not easy, and interactions themselves pose challenges. In this paper, we explore how organisations interact across sectors to develop a sustainable innovation. Specifically, we investigate coordination, cooperation, collaboration and cocreation as logics of interaction in the pursuit of sustainable innovation. An in‐depth case study of a unique sustainable innovation project with ambitions of cocreation reveals that all interaction logics are at play but dominate in different phases. We further trace the antecedents of shifts in the dynamics of dominant logics. Our findings provide important insights into how organisations can better engage in sustainable innovation by understanding the dynamics of interaction logics. We show how the normative ideal of cocreation is challenged in practice and that other logics of interaction are engaged in the pursuit of a sustainable innovation.

BEYOND THE FAMILY TIES: COMPETITIVE INTELLIGENCE AS A CATALYST FOR INNOVATION IN FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESSES

This study investigates the effect of Competitive Intelligence (CI) in supporting sustainable innovation (SI) in Nigerian family-owned businesses (FOB), with a specific emphasis on the moderating effects of Generational Ownership (GO), Business Agility (BA), and Strategic Planning (SP). Using a quantitative approach, data were collected from 237 respondents drawn from 25 Nigerian family-owned firms in diverse sectors and analyzed using regression analysis. The results suggest a positive correlation between CI and sustainable innovation, which confirms that CI substantially improves a company's ability to implement sustainable practices. The result also revealed that Generational Ownership moderates this relationship, as family businesses owned by the third or fourth generation exhibit greater dedication to sustainability through CI. The impact of CI on sustainable innovation was also found to be enhanced by Business Agility and Strategic Planning. This suggests that family businesses with well-structured and dynamic planning processes are better positioned to leverage CI for long-term sustainability. The findings of this study have practical implications for Nigerian family business leaders, policymakers, and practitioners by emphasizing the significance of CI and adaptive practices in the context of swiftly changing markets concerning resilience. Providing a pathway for family-owned businesses in emergent economies to contribute to sustainable development through informed, innovation-driven strategies, this study is in alignment with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 9 on industry, innovation, and infrastructure. KEYWORDS: Sustainable Innovation, Generational Ownership, Business Agility, Strategic Planning.

Quantum Technologies in the Context of Climate Change: Emphasizing Sustainability in a Responsible Innovation Approach to Quantum Innovation

Using quantum technologies (QTs) to solve problems related to climate change is a key goal for many physicists at the research and development stage. Recent research anticipates numerous real-world applications for quantum technologies that will address climate change and further sustainable development goals. However, currently there is no guiding framework for implementing responsible, sustainable innovation, or criteria for evaluating the sustainability of QTs. The goal of this article is to augment previous responsible innovation (RI) analysis of, and recommendations for, quantum innovation by emphasizing sustainability as a key value. This article will also provide specific recommendations for developing sustainable QTs and criteria to assess the sustainability of QTs. With increases in funding for quantum innovation and the predicted operationality of many QTs in the coming decades, this is a key moment to discuss values and shape the quantum innovation trajectory. By using an RI approach with an added emphasis on sustainability, this article offers tools for developing responsible, sustainable QTs that are sensitive to the climate change context.

Challenges and Opportunities in Including Sustainability in the Pre-Owned Automobile Value Chain

In this research, the author studies on preowned automobile value chain with sustainability and Recent innovations, such as carbon-neutral production and the electrification of vehicles, demonstrate the growing importance of sustainability in the automotive business. In this study, they used different variables of methodology for data collection for research and also used the SPSS and Excel tools for analyzing and presenting the data. The author used the primary data for their research and prepared their study with the help of questionnaires. The result of the study is Environmental Impact" presents the responses to a series of questions regarding the perceived environmental impact of pre-owned vehicles and "Financial Benefits and Drawbacks" presents responses to a series of questions evaluating the financial implications of incorporating sustainability measures about pre-owned vehicles.

Empirical insights on organisational sustainability: exploring the influence of communities of practice and associated technologies

Purpose This study aims to provide empirical insights into the role of communities of practice (CoPs) and associated technologies in fostering organisational sustainability (OS), particularly social and environmental sustainability within the oil and gas (O&G) sector in the Middle East. It explores how these mechanisms contribute to the enhancement of these sustainability through knowledge management (KM) and innovation. Design/methodology/approach This quantitative study examines the causal relationships among the key variables. A survey of 330 engineers from six O&G firms across three northern governorates in Iraq was conducted using a structured questionnaire. The collected data were analysed through Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling to validate the research model. Findings The study highlights that knowledge is a fundamental resource for driving innovation and sustainable organisational practices. CoPs serve as a dynamic KM framework, facilitating efficient knowledge exchange, dissemination and application. This, in turn, enhances employees’ ability to address daily professional challenges while reinforcing social and environmental sustainability initiatives. The findings also reveal that CoPs and associated technologies significantly contribute to the economic, social and environmental dimensions of OS, demonstrating a moderate to substantial effect. Practical implications The findings provide actionable insights for O&G companies aiming to integrate sustainability through technology-driven CoPs. By institutionalising CoPs and leveraging digital technologies, organisations can enhance collaborative learning, knowledge retention and sustainable innovation. This research also underscores the need for leaders and managers within O&G firms to prioritise technological advancements and knowledge-sharing strategies to drive social and environmental sustainability efforts. Social implications The study highlights how technology-driven CoPs can foster knowledge-sharing, collaboration and social sustainability within organisations, particularly in the O&G sector. By leveraging digital platforms, virtual knowledge-sharing tools and AI-driven analytics, organisations can enhance workplace inclusivity, cross-disciplinary collaboration and employee engagement in sustainability initiatives. Furthermore, the adoption of CoPs and emerging digital technologies promotes a culture of collective learning and professional development, ensuring that employees at all levels contribute to and benefit from sustainable business practices. This research also underscores the role of technology-enhanced CoPs in bridging knowledge gaps, improving social equity in professional settings and strengthening corporate social responsibility efforts. Originality/value While existing studies have demonstrated a link between KM and sustainable performance, this research uniquely examines CoPs and related technologies as enablers of social and environmental sustainability in the O&G sector. It provides a novel perspective on how organisations can leverage technological tools and knowledge-sharing platforms to enhance OS, bridging a critical gap in sustainability research.

The Effect of Supervisor Support and Work Engagement on Innovative Work Behavior of Government Statisticians

Sustainable innovation is predominantly propelled by individuals' innovative work behavior (IWB). Nonetheless, investigations of IWB in the public sector are still limited. This study aims to examine the effect of supervisor support and work engagement on the innovative work behavior of government statisticians. A total of 197 statisticians from BPS-Statistics Indonesia, encompassing both headquarters and provincial offices throughout Indonesia, participated as respondents. The data were examined using the Confirmatory Composite Analysis (CCA) approach within PLS-SEM, utilizing SmartPLS software. The results revealed that supervisor support positively influences statisticians' innovative work behavior, both directly and indirectly through work engagement. Furthermore, work engagement exhibits a beneficial and a direct effect on the innovative work behavior of statisticians. Consequently, it is important for BPS-Statistics Indonesia to perpetually augment the socio-emotional and technical support provided to statisticians by supervisors.

Unearthing the multidimensional roles of place attachment in sustainable entrepreneurship: a longitudinal study of an ethnic minority entrepreneur in the UK

PurposeWhile place significantly influences entrepreneurial processes, it has received limited theoretical attention in entrepreneurship literature, particularly regarding its connections to enterprises and sustainability. This study addresses this gap through a longitudinal qualitative case study conducted in Birmingham, UK, examining how the multidimensional roles of place attachment shape the sustainable entrepreneurial journey of ethnic minority entrepreneurs through the lens of place attachment theory.Design/methodology/approachUtilising Scannell and Gifford’s (2010) three-dimensional person–process–place framework, this study undertook a rigorous four-year longitudinal qualitative study from 2020 to 2023 by conducting six interviews with an ethnic minority entrepreneur and observing entrepreneurial activities. The data were analysed using thematic analysis to interpret the themes and insights systematically.FindingsThe findings revealed that the interplay of individual place attachment, psychological processes and physical place characteristics drives sustainable entrepreneurial actions within ethnic minority contexts. The personal experiences of environmental deprivation and cultural constraints can paradoxically enhance environmental consciousness and catalyse sustainable innovation, while ethnic minority cultural values naturally align with and strengthen sustainable business practices. By leveraging both social and physical aspects of place, the entrepreneur has created a business model that is deeply rooted in and responsive to the local context, demonstrating the potential of place attachment to foster innovative and sustainable forms of ethnic minority entrepreneurship.Practical implicationsTo enhance sustainable venture creation among ethnic minority entrepreneurs, this study recommends tailoring business support by considering both cognitive and behavioural factors. This tailored support can empower ethnic minority entrepreneurs, foster long-term business sustainability and inform a comprehensive policy framework.Originality/valueThis longitudinal qualitative study offers a nuanced understanding of the role of place attachment in sustainable entrepreneurship, particularly among ethnic minority entrepreneurs. It introduces a holistic approach by exploring both the cognitive and behavioural aspects of place attachment, enriching the current understanding of its influence on the entrepreneurial journey.

Green product innovation: influences on environmental sustainability performance

PurposeIn the contemporary era, practices that are not sustainable pose risks to both businesses and the environment. Thus, this study explores the interplay between workforce agility, knowledge sharing and product innovation flexibility and their collective impact on driving green product innovation and environmental sustainability.Design/methodology/approachData were collected from 448 managers in the industrial sector to explore how workforce agility facilitates the exchange of critical information with customers and suppliers, thereby fostering collaborative innovation and the development of environmentally friendly products.FindingsThe study reveals a synergistic relationship where workforce agility enhances knowledge sharing, which in turn significantly contributes to green product innovation. This innovation, fostered through collaborative efforts and adaptable product development processes, is crucial for advancing a company’s environmental sustainability performance.Practical implicationsThis study emphasizes the importance of workforce agility and robust knowledge-sharing practices for enhancing environmental sustainability. Firms that invest in adaptable employees and foster open communication with stakeholders can drive sustainable innovation and adapt swiftly to market changes. These strategies enable organizations to meet evolving sustainability demands effectively, strengthening their competitive position.Originality/valueThis study highlights the crucial roles of knowledge sharing and flexible product development in driving sustainable innovation. It provides actionable insights for organizations, underscoring the need to integrate workforce agility and collaborative knowledge sharing as strategies for achieving sustainable business practices and enhancing environmental sustainability.

THE CULTURE OF INNOVATION IN SMES IN GUANAJUATO: AN EVOLUTIONARY ANALYSIS

Objectives: The study aims to analyze the evolution of innovation practices in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Guanajuato, Mexico, over a decade. It seeks to understand what business leaders know about innovation, the steps they are taking to foster it, and what is required to integrate a culture of innovation to enhance competitiveness. Theoretical Framework: The framework centers on organizational and innovation culture. Organizational culture influences how companies adopt and promote innovation, while an innovation culture encourages creativity and improvement in products, services, or processes. The study highlights that despite the regional economic need for innovation, cultural barriers like resistance to change limit innovation in many SMEs. Method: A cross-sectional, descriptive, longitudinal comparative study was conducted, collecting data from 157 companies in Guanajuato in 2022 and comparing it with data from 2012. This approach involved a survey of innovation knowledge, practices, and needs across various sectors, using a questionnaire modified from a prior study. Results and Discussion: The results reveal an increase in the awareness and strategic incorporation of innovation in SMEs. While companies now view innovation as essential for competitiveness, many still lack a cohesive strategy and resources for sustained innovation. There is an improved understanding of customer-focused innovation, yet formalized knowledge management and technology tracking are still limited. Research Implications: The findings imply a need for policies that support knowledge and resource accessibility for innovation. Collaboration with academic institutions and government incentives could address resource shortages and support the development of a robust innovation culture among SMEs. Originality/Value: This study is valuable as it provides an evolutionary analysis of innovation practices within a decade, offering insights into the changing dynamics of SMEs in Guanajuato. It underscores the importance of innovation culture for competitiveness, especially in regions with significant economic dependence on SMEs.