Technological environmental innovations (TEIs) in a chain-analytical and life-cycle-analytical perspective

Abstract

This paper is based on an empirical survey of technological environmental innovations (TEIs), i.e. new products, processes and practices that come with benign environmental effects. The survey is based on product chain analysis and innovation life cycle analysis. It turns out that most TEIs occur upstream rather than downstream, i.e. chain-upwards in the beginning rather than in the end of product chains, and in early stages of technology or product development rather than in later, more mature stages. There are conclusions to be drawn for 'upstreaming' environmental activities and for focusing environmental policy upon innovation.

Innovating for sustainability: a framework for sustainable innovations and a model of sustainable innovations orientation

“…Any kind of innovations-technical, economic, legal, institutional, organizational and behavioural-that relieve strain on environmentally sensitive resources and sinks (Huber 2008).…”

Developing eco-innovations: a three-stage typology of supply networks

“…A firm can engage in these practices by taking newly discovered eco-innovations and transferring them to suppliers so that the technology or process can be implemented in that supplier's operations. For example, process eco-innovations usually incorporate cleaner production technologies that reduce waste and effluents during raw material extraction, manufacturing and distribution; three activities often within a suppliers remit (Huber, 2008;Rennings et al, 2006). Product eco-innovations engage suppliers in the design stage potentially leading to the use of more environmentally sound (Lamming et al, 1999) materials and reductions in product and packaging waste (Hart and Milstein, 2003;van Hemel and Cramer, 2002).…”

Inovação E Sustentabilidade: Um Olhar Sobre a Produção Científica Publicada Em Eventos Da Associação Nacional De Pós-Graduação E Pesquisa Em Administração

“…-Inovações de processo: referem-se à produção de bens e serviços, muitas vezes com o objetivo de aumentar a eco-eficiência ou consistência metabólica (HUBER, 2008). Eles são ainda mais diferenciados em soluções de final de processos e tecnologias de produção mais limpa (RENNINGS et al, 2006).…”