Theoretical Framework: Sustainability and Innovation

Felix Kaup
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Felix Kaup: Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research

Chapter Chapter 2 in The Sugarcane Complex in Brazil, 2015, pp 13-44 from Springer

Abstract: Abstract The theoretical chapter looks at the concept of sustainability with regard to the main objectives of biofuel policies while it considers the importance of innovation and technological development in order to reach a transition towards sustainability and sustainable mobility. The Environmental Kuznets Curve is quoted in order to explain technological optimism with regard to innovations which imply that a transition towards sustainability can be reached. Different strands of economic research are concisely presented in order to identify a theoretical framework where innovation is put at the center of attention. Evolutionary economic theory is hereby considered as the most applicable approach that provides an explanation for technological development and innovation. Different concepts that reflect on the importance of innovation and technological change are subsequently presented. The strong connection between institutional economics and evolutionary economic theory is referred to in detail in especially with regard to the concepts of innovation systems. The technicalities and attributes of Technology Innovation Systems are introduced as the concept of Energy Technology Innovation System (ETIS) is being introduced and further elaborated upon. The feature of product/process level and institutional level analysis that provides comprehension of physical technologies and social innovations is explained in more detail since the ETIS concept is applied to the analysis of the Brazilian sugarcane complex.

Keywords: Complex Sugarcane; Technological Innovation System; Economic Development Theory; Sustainable Mobility; Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2015
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DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-16583-7_2

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