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Making technological innovation work for sustainable development
Laura Diaz Anadon1, Gabriel Chan2, Alicia G Harley3
1Harvard Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138; Department of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Public Policy, University College London, London W1T 6EY, United Kingdom;
Summary
Harnessing technological innovation for sustainable development requires understanding complex systems and reforming institutions. Action proposals focus on learning, inclusivity, and reorienting innovation towards societal needs.
Area of Science:
- Sustainable Development Studies
- Innovation Studies
- Socio-technical Systems Analysis
Background:
- Technological innovation is crucial for sustainable development but faces complex challenges.
- Innovation processes are not linear but emerge from adaptive systems with multiple actors and institutions.
- Existing institutions often fail to align innovation with sustainable development goals due to power imbalances.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide insights and action proposals for leveraging technological innovation for sustainable development.
- To identify barriers and opportunities within innovation systems.
- To propose reforms for inclusive and effective innovation.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of scholarship and practice in technological innovation for sustainable development.
- Cross-sectoral comparisons of innovation systems.
- Identification of institutional barriers and potential reforms.
Main Results:
- Technological innovation emerges from complex adaptive systems, not linear sequences.
- Barriers exist at all stages of innovation, from invention to retirement.
- Current institutions often exclude marginalized populations, hindering sustainable development.
Conclusions:
- Regularized learning channels across practice domains are essential.
- Measures to include underserved populations throughout the innovation process are needed.
- Institutional reform is critical to reorient innovation systems toward sustainable development goals.
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