Enhancing the sustainability dimension in smart specialisation strategies: towards a framework for reflexive policy practice

Michał Miedziński, Lars Coenen and Henrik Larsen

Chapter 3 in Research Handbook on Regions and Transformative Innovation Policy, 2026, pp 29-51 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: This chapter develops a framework for embedding sustainability challenges and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into Smart Specialisation Strategies (S3). Originally designed to foster regional competitiveness and economic growth, S3 has only partially engaged with the complexity of sustainability transitions, often overlooking tensions and synergies between economic, social and environmental objectives. Building on insights from sociotechnical transitions, social–ecological resilience and challenge-led innovation policy, the chapter proposes a reflexive policy practice approach to strengthen the sustainability dimension of S3. The framework was co-created with policymakers from diverse regions and offers guiding principles, reflective questions and practical entry points for enhancing diagnosis, governance, visioning, priority-setting, action plans and evaluation in S3 processes. By emphasising responsibility, reflexivity and continuous learning, the framework helps policymakers address normative dilemmas, trade-offs and systemic interdependencies. While designed for S3, it has broader relevance for aligning regional innovation strategies with ambitious sustainability goals and just transitions.

Keywords: Smart specialisation; Regional innovation policy; Sustainable development goals; Sustainability transitions; Sociotechnical transitions; Social–ecological resilience (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
ISBN: 9781035309924
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