| 1. |
- Ahlroth, Sofia, et al.
(författare)
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Weighting and valuation in selected environmental systems analysis tools - suggestions for further developments
- 2011
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Ingår i: Journal of Cleaner Production. - : Elsevier BV. - 0959-6526 .- 1879-1786. ; 19:2-3, s. 145-156
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- In environmental systems analysis tools like Life Cycle Assessment, strategic environmental assessment, cost benefit analysis and environmental management systems, results need to be presented in a comprehensible way to make alternatives easily comparable. One way of doing this is to aggregate results to a manageable set by using weighting methods.. In this paper, we explore how weighting methods are used in some selected Environmental Systems Analysis Tools (ESATs), and suggest possible developments of their use. We examine the differences in current use patterns, discuss the reasons for and implications of such differences, and investigate whether observed differences in use are necessary. The result of our survey shows that weighting and valuation is broadly used in the examined ESATs. The use of weighting/valuation methods is different in different tools, but these differences are not always related to the application; rather, they are related to traditions and views on valuation and weighting. Also, although the requirements on the weights/values may differ between tools, there are intersections where they coincide. Monetary weights, using either endpoint or midpoint methods, are found to be useful in all the selected tools. Furthermore, the inventory shows that that there is a common need for generic sets of weights. There is a need for further research focusing on the development of consistent value sets derived with a wide range of methods. In parallel to the development of weighting methods it is important with critical evaluations of the weighting sets with regard to scientific quality, consistency and data gaps.
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| 2. |
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| 3. |
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| 4. |
- Ammenberg, Jonas, 1973-, et al.
(författare)
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Globala miljöproblem
- 2023
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Ingår i: Miljöteknik. - Lund : Studentlitteratur AB. - 9789144159355 ; , s. 39-70
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Bokkapitel (övrigt vetenskapligt/konstnärligt)abstract
- I detta kapitel beskrivs några betydande miljöproblem av global karaktär. Det handlar närmare bestämt om klimatförändringar, uttunning av ozonskiktet, minskad biologisk mångfald och användning av naturresurser. Syftet är att du som läsare bättre ska förstå vad som kännetecknar problemen, vad i samhället som orsakar dem, rådande trender och möjliga åtgärder.
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| 5. |
- Ammenberg, Jonas, 1973-, et al.
(författare)
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Tracing business and environmental effects of environmental management systems : a study of networking small and medium-sized enterprises using a joint environmental management system
- 2003
-
Ingår i: Business Strategy and the Environment. - : Wiley. - 0964-4733 .- 1099-0836. ; 12:3, s. 163-174
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- In Hackefors Industrial District in Sweden, 26 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have formed an environmental network and implemented a joint environmental management system (EMS) according to ISO 14001. Based on interviews with the environmental co-ordinators at these enterprises, the effects on business and environmental efforts and impacts are analysed.It can be concluded that the joint EMS has resulted in better relations with important stakeholders, such as existing and potential customers. For example, three-fifths said that their EMS had made it easier to receive a contract for the sale of products and services. Several environmental improvements have been observed and are presented in the paper, many of which are considered as consequences of the EMSs. Moreover, based on observations during the study, this paper discusses how boundaries and screening affect the connection between EMSs and environmental performance.
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| 6. |
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| 7. |
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| 8. |
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| 9. |
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| 10. |
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| 11. |
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| 12. |
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| 13. |
- Emilsson (Gustafsson), Sara, 1974-, et al.
(författare)
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Towards sustainability management systems in three Swedish local authorities
- 2009
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Ingår i: Local Environment. - : Informa UK Limited. - 1354-9839 .- 1469-6711. ; 14:8, s. 721-732
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- This paper explores the development towards sustainability management systems (SMSs) in three Swedish local authorities. Many local authorities have extensive experience in using standardised Environmental Management Systems (EMSs). Recently EMSs have extended their reach by widening the scope of the systems including other dimensions of sustainable development. Case studies have been performed in three of the most EMS-experienced local authorities in Sweden. These authorities have extended their EMSs into a sustainability management approach in different ways. This paper discusses the development, possible contributions, and constraints with this development. Expanding EMSs into SMSs can be seen as a learning process in which a larger systems perspective leads to increased awareness that the management system becomes limited by only managing environmental issues. Expanding the EMSs into SMSs may lead to a more complete view of the organisation's total impact on nature and society, and issues that need to be managed.
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| 14. |
- Englund, Andreas, 1968-, et al.
(författare)
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Market barriers for environmental innovations
- 2011
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Konferensbidrag (övrigt vetenskapligt/konstnärligt)abstract
- This paper describes market barriers experienced by Swedish innovators in start-up companies early in the process of bringing environmental innovations to the market. The studied innovators are mainly active in a business-to-business market that often involves capital-intensive industry sectors and large companies are seen as important customers. Most of the market barriers identified can be related to customer relations. The innovators experience their customers’ negative attitudes and unwillingness to try new technologies as major barriers. Furthermore, they perceived their customers to be conservative and reluctant to take risks. These barriers may be relevant in most innovation developments although they may be more articulated for environmental innovations since such innovations mostly evolve in emerging industries and since capital-intensive industry sectors dominate the area. Measures to stimulate diffusion of environmental innovation are discussed, including ways to encourage customers to test new technologies and to see the adoption of the innovation as worth the perceived risks.
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| 15. |
- Gustafsson (Emilsson), Sara, 1974-, et al.
(författare)
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Allt eller inget? : om kommunens roll i det hållbara lokalsamhället
- 2010. - 1
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Ingår i: Samtal pågår.... - Norrköping : Centrum för kommunstrategiska studier, Linköpings universitet. - 9789173934176 ; , s. 59-65
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Bokkapitel (övrigt vetenskapligt/konstnärligt)abstract
- Är det bättre med stora än med små kommuner? Kommer folkrörelsepartierna att bli mer kampanj- och väljarorienterade i framtiden? Hur formas en boendepolitik för det goda åldrandet? Lokala transportstrategier – hur och för vem? Hur påverkas kommunledningars samverkan om gymnasieskolan av att det finns friskolor? Är kulturekonomi framtidens lokala tillväxtmotor?Dessa och andra frågor behandlas i denna bok. Den är ett led i Centrum för kommunstrategiska studiers, CKS, arbete med att bygga en dialog – utveckla goda samtal – mellan Linköpings universitet och medlemskommunerna i CKS. Den innehåller fjorton olika artiklar, inlägg, som forskare författat för att förmedla sina resultat, men också för att stärka en dialog med politiker och tjänstemän i kommunerna. Inläggen spänner över många olika ämnen och frågeställningar. De är i vissa fall konkreta och koncisa i andra fall beskrivande och reflekterande. Alla är de av kommunstrategisk karaktär.I en kommun fattas en mängd olika politiska beslut kring de mest skiftande ämnen. Det kräver kunskap, reflektion och gedigna beslutsunderlag. Då kan forskares analyser och kunskapsproduktion vara till nytta. För att en fördjupad och samhällsrelevant forskning ska komma till stånd behövs emellertid reaktioner från politiker och tjänstemän. Det finns alltså ett ömsesidigt beroende. Det kan hanteras genom samtal i vilka forskare, politiker och tjänstemän kan utbyta erfarenheter, tankar och kunskaper. Inläggen i denna bok visar att samtal pågår.
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| 16. |
- Gustafsson, Sara, Biträdande professor, 1974-, et al.
(författare)
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Strategic spatial planning -a missed opportunity to facilitate district heating systems based on excess heat
- 2019
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Ingår i: European Planning Studies. - : Taylor & Francis. - 0965-4313 .- 1469-5944. ; 27:9, s. 1709-1726
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Strategic spatial planning is important for developing long-termvisions and strategies towards regional and local sustainability.This paper explores if and how strategic spatial planning could beuseful for overcoming some barriers related to new sustainableways of heating residential areas, using district heating systemsbased on industrial excess heat. This longitudinal study builds oninterviews with municipal and private actors in six Swedishmunicipalities. It highlights that important barriers can beovercome by influencing the design and location of residentialdistricts and industrial activities. Further, it identifies missedopportunities in local spatial planning practice as stakeholders areinvolved late in the planning when much is set, leaving littlespace for stakeholders to have an impact. Consequently, theremight be a lack of knowledge and expertise in how such issuescould enhance planning. Strategic spatial planning could facilitateconditions for excess heat-based systems of district heating as itimplies a broader systems perspective which could enhance abroader planning scope. Plan programs could bring about morestrategic spatial planning processes as these require earlystakeholder involvement. If taking stakeholder involvement onestep further to stakeholder collaboration or co-production, aneven broader planning scope would be achieved.
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| 17. |
- Halvarsson Lundqvist, Agneta, Filosofie doktor, 1961-, et al.
(författare)
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Grön omställning i svenska tillverkningsföretag : En interaktiv förstudie av omställningsprogram för små och medelstora företag
- 2022
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Rapport (övrigt vetenskapligt/konstnärligt)abstract
- Denna rapport behandlar hur grön omställning i små och medelstora företag inom svensk tillverkningsindustri kan påskyndas. Utgångspunkten är att dessa företag behöver öka sin kunskap om hur hållbarhetsfrågor kommer påverka deras verksamhet och framtida konkurrenskraft och utifrån denna kunskap genomföra ett omställningsarbete. För att underlätta denna gröna omställning bedrivs ett stort antal satsningar ofta finansierade av offentliga myndigheter såsom den svenska innovationsmyndigheten Vinnova. Rapporten utgör en del av en förstudie tillika följeforskningsprojekt, benämnt IFGO (interaktiv forskning för grön omställning), och inriktas mot fem VINNOVA-finansierade program/projekt som avser att utveckla metoder för, samt stödja den gröna omställningen hos huvudsakligen små och medelstora tillverkande industriföretag. Syftet med denna rapport är att förmedla kunskap om program för att stödja grön omställning i svensk tillverkningsindustri och vidareutveckla denna kunskap, samt att kategorisera ett urval av sådana program som finansierats av Vinnova. Förstudien resulterade i sex slutsatser vilka bedöms ha avgörande betydelse för en storskalig och verkningsfull stöttning av små och medelstora tillverkande företags gröna omställning. Flertalet av slutsatserna kan vara brett tillämpbara för hela näringslivet.
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| 18. |
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| 19. |
- Hjelm, Olof, 1967-
(författare)
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Advantage Eco-design - A partnership for promoting ecodesign activities in small companies
- 2004
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Ingår i: Partnership for Sustainable Development,2004.
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Konferensbidrag (övrigt vetenskapligt/konstnärligt)abstract
- This paper evaluates a project that promotes eco-design activities in small companies. Small companies have special needs when it comes to eco-design. Here I present a way of working that uses partnerships between small companies, authorities, consultants, and universities to promote such activities. The project addresses two connected parts: training and network activities as well as individual product development at each company. At the start, the companies were given advice about environmental work, eco-design, and life-cycle thinking. Before starting the eco-design activities, the project actively tried to find the right resources (consultants) needed for each company. The product development activities greatly differed between companies, depending on the type of project and the ambitions of the companies. After some time, we had more network meetings that included training, exchange of experience during the individual project work, and site-visits at companies in the project. The project was finalised by an official exhibition where the companies displayed new products or product ideas developed in the project. With support from the project, four companies developed a new generation of an existing product and introduced it on the market, one developed new concepts to be used in further development, two made initial work and changes on existing products, and finally one company developed a design tool to be used in coming eco-design-activities. These examples are now used for marketing eco-design activities in the work with regional economic development. This paper describes the network of actors, way of working, and outcomes of -Advantage Ecodesign-. In addition, the paper discusses how good examples can be used in the regional economic development and the importance of creating good partnerships to build a platform for continuous eco-design activities in small companies.
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| 20. |
- Hjelm, Olof, 1967-, et al.
(författare)
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From Tool Technique to Tool Practice : Experiences from the Project Seamless : Strategic Environmental Assessment and Management in Local Authorities in Sweden
- 2011
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Rapport (övrigt vetenskapligt/konstnärligt)abstract
- This report contains the results from the project SEAMLESS, Strategic Environmental Assessment and Management in Local authoritiES in Sweden. The aim of SEAMLESS was to explore conceptual foundations as well as feasibility of establishing better operational and methodological linkages between tools for strategic environmental planning, assessment and management, especially between SEA (according to the EG directive 2001/42/EC and EMS based on the main principles of ISO 14001/EMAS) in local authorities. The rationale for the study was that local authorities are important actors on the environmental arena, which make and implement a large number of decisions directly and indirectly affecting the environment. A multitude of different systems and tools have been developed to support environmental management at local authorities and an integrated use of different tools can have various benefits. The SEAMLESS project has been realized through five main steps. First, a literature review and a survey of international practice were performed. Second, in parallel to the first step, an initial conceptual framework was constructed. The third step in the research process was to carry out case studies in six selected Swedish local authorities in order get a better understanding of how SEA and EMS are dealt with in practice. In the fourth step, the results from the previous steps in the research process were compiled and analyzed in order to develop and conduct a pilot study. Finally in the fifth step, general recommendations for integrated use of strategic planning, assessment and management tools were formulated. Theoretically, local sustainable development strategies could benefit from having influence from some of the main approaches and principles in SEA and EMS methodologies. Achieving this in practice, however, is a challenge that requires a wide systems perspective and a certain degree of maturity in the organization. At the time of SEAMLESS an integrated approach of SEA and EMS was not possible nor asked for by the studied local authorities. The SEAMLESS project‘s core concepts tool technique and tool practice were used for explaining and analyzing the preconditions, possibilities and difficulties in integrating SEA and EMS. Tool technique addresses the more technical aspects of the tools use and integration, neglecting the context in which it is to be used. Applying a tool technique perspective there are several possible linkages between the studied tools that could enhance each tool, e.g. widening the scope of EMS and facilitating follow up of SEA. It is important to understand the context, since it influences the feasibility of tool integration; therefore a tool practice perspective is needed. Furthermore tool integration is another important concept in the SEAMLESS project, where three different stages of integration were identified: formal integration, learning integration and interactive integration. A too strong focus on formal integration (which is closely connected to tool technique) might lead to that potential linkages are not realized. To make such integration possible the focus should be more on learning integration. Interactive integration is hard to achieve and it can be questioned if it is desired. Too much focus on interactive integration might lead to complex resource demanding tool causing ineffectiveness and tool fatigue. The SEAMLESS project resulted in a set of recommendations based on that integration should not be seen as a goal in itself; that attempts of tool integration should focus on bridging the different professional cultures; and that a wide systems perspective is needed.
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| 21. |
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| 22. |
- Hjelm, Olof, 1967-
(författare)
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Organohalogens in coniferous forest soil
- 1996
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Doktorsavhandling (övrigt vetenskapligt/konstnärligt)abstract
- This thesis is focused on naturally produced organohalogens in soil. It was long assumed that organohalogens found in the environment were mainly of anthropogenic origin, but recent research has shown that large amounts of naturally produced organohalogens are stored in terrestrial environments. The present study show that halogens are natural constituents of soil organic matter and that an in situ production takes place in soil. Moreover, it is strongly indicated that this production is related to decomposition of organic matter and that fungi generally produce organohalogens during degradation of organic matter. Together, these findings infer that degradation of organic matter is a key process in the formation of organically bound halogens in terrestrial ecosystems. Evidence is also presented that supports the hypothesis that halometabolite production is a source of the organohalogens found in soil, but the relative contribution from this and other potential sources remains to be elucidated.The investigations of the present thesis were limited to coniferous forest soil, and the intention was to examine soil under natural conditions, thus emphasis was placed on field studies. However, since soil in itself is a complex system, laboratory studies were performed to examine aspects not easily observed in the field. The distribution of organohalogens and organic matter at different depths in a soil profile was investigated. The results indicated that organohalogens were produced in the top soil, hence subsequent studies were focused on top soils, in particular the litter layer.Changes in the total amount of organohalogens during decomposition of organic matter in top soil was studied by employing the conventional litter bag technique. Furthermore, experiments were conducted that focused on organisms that degrade organic matter. The fungus Lepista nuda was used as a representative of litter degrading fungi, and investigations were conducted both as field studies of a fairy ring formed by this fungus and as laboratory studies under controlled conditions. Furthermore, the ability of white-rot fungi to produce organohalogens while decomposing wood was examined under laboratory conditions. The chemical analytical methods primarily used were GC-MS (gas chromatography-mass spectrometry ) and GC-AED (gas chromatography-atomic emission detection).
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| 23. |
- Hjelm, Olof, 1967-, et al.
(författare)
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Production of organically bound halogens by the litter-degrading fungus Lepista nuda
- 1999
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Ingår i: Soil Biology and Biochemistry. - 0038-0717 .- 1879-3428. ; 31:11, s. 1510-1515
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- The ability of Lepista nuda to produce organically bound halogens was tested both in a laboratory study of a pure culture and in a field study. It was found that L. nuda caused an increase in the total amount of organically bound halogens in the study of a pure culture, but possibly because of large variance between replicates, no such increase could be detected in the field study. In addition, in both the laboratory and the field studies, low-molecular-weight organohalogens such as chlorinated benzaldehydes were detected in all samples affected by the fungus and the amounts were 0.2–82 μg/g d.w. These low-molecular-weight compounds correspond to approximately 30% of the increase in organohalogens detected in the laboratory study. It is suggested that the low-molecular-weight organohalogens detected, most likely are produced de novo by L. nuda and that production of such compounds followed by an incorporation into high-molecular-weight compounds is an explanation for the increase in amounts in the laboratory study.
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| 24. |
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| 25. |
- Hjelm, Olof, 1967-
(författare)
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The SIMPLE methodology for supporting innovations in the field of renewable energy and energy efficiency
- 2011
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Ingår i: World Renewable Energy Congress – Sweden, 8–13 May, 2011, Linköping, Sweden. - : Linköping University Electronic Press. - 9789173930703
-
Konferensbidrag (refereegranskat)abstract
- In this article, I present my experiences stimulating development of new products and services in small companies in the environmental arena. The focus on small companies is justified since many new innovations originate from such companies and they often have special needs compared to larger companies. In the region of Östergötland Sweden, we have developed a model called SIMPLE (Successful implementation of eco-design in small enterprises) to support small companies’ environmental innovations. SIMPLE uses the Triple Helix approach. Triple Helix is often used to describe the interaction between university, government, and industry to promote innovation by building on active participation and interaction between regional actors. In short, the SIMPLE methodology uses coaching, network activities and education, and financial support to encourage development of new ideas. Three cases are presented to illustrate the diversity of innovations that can be supported using the SIMPLE methodology. Observations suggest that individual company’s needs must be the main concern of any methodology and networks can significantly stimulate individuals and organizations to speed up the development process and time to market.
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| 26. |
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| 27. |
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| 28. |
- Hjelm, Olof, 1967-
(författare)
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Varför finns miljöproblem?
- 2023. - 2
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Ingår i: Miljöteknik. - Lund : Studentlitteratur AB. - 9789144159355 ; , s. 33-36
-
Bokkapitel (övrigt vetenskapligt/konstnärligt)abstract
- I det här kapitlet introduceras begreppet miljöproblem. Vidare berörs flera viktiga globala utvecklingstrender som ligger bakom problembilden. Tanken är att bidra med information som underlättar förståelsen av kommande kapitel.
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| 29. |
- Kanda, Wisdom, 1985-, et al.
(författare)
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A function of innovation systems approach for analysing the roles of intermediaries in eco-innovation
- 2015
-
Konferensbidrag (övrigt vetenskapligt/konstnärligt)abstract
- This article draws from two bodies of literature, innovation intermediaries and technological innovation systems, to develop an approach for analysing the functions of intermediaries in eco-innovation. The link between the functions of innovation intermediaries and the functions of technological innovation systems has seldom been explicitly established in the scientific discourse and thus this article contributes to theoretical development in both literatures. To the technological innovation systems literature, this article addresses the lack of attention to the functions of innovation intermediaries who are a critical part in the formation of networks and also contribute to a number of innovation system functions. To the innovation intermediary literature, the functional approach advocates for a synthesis and consensus building in the literature regarding intermediary functions in view of the several redundancies and ambiguities on the subject matter. Empirical operationalization of the analytical approach including methodological choices from case studies in Region Scania, Sweden and North Rhine Westphalia, Germany are also discussed. The results of our analysis show that the functions of the innovation intermediaries are particularly relevant for the overall goals of an innovation system as compared to the configuration of intermediary actors. Particular challenges with a functional approach in this context include the difficulties of establishing a causal relation between the support functions of intermediaries and eco-innovation outcomes in firms.
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| 30. |
- Kanda, Wisdom, 1985-, et al.
(författare)
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A technological innovation systems approach to analyse the roles of intermediaries in eco-innovation
- 2019
-
Ingår i: Journal of Cleaner Production. - : Elsevier. - 0959-6526 .- 1879-1786. ; 227, s. 1136-1148
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- The literature on intermediaries faces challenges regarding how to conceptualise and empirically demonstrate the system-level impact of intermediaries. Thus, researchers and policy analysts may experience difficulties in grasping the potential contributions of intermediaries beyond individual projects and firms to aggregate levels of an innovation system. This article combines innovation intermediary and technological innovation systems literature to develop fundamentals of an approach for analysing how organisations acting as intermediaries support firms in eco-innovation and potentially contribute to technological innovation system functions. The operationalisation of the analytical approach is illustrated using case studies on a total of eight support organisations acting as intermediaries in the region of Scania, Sweden and North Rhine Westphalia, Germany. For researchers and policy analysts, the analytical approach presented in this article offers the opportunity for a step-by-step, comprehensive and transparent analysis of different types of intermediaries, their roles, and potential contributions to innovation system functions.
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| 31. |
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| 32. |
- Kanda, Wisdom, 1985-, et al.
(författare)
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Boosting eco-innovation : The role of public support organizations
- 2014
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Ingår i: XXV ISPIM Conference on Innovation for sustainable Economy and Society. - 9789522655912
-
Konferensbidrag (refereegranskat)abstract
- This paper uses a multidisciplinary and systematic review of 45 journal articles and two case interviews to investigate the role of public support organizations in the development of eco-innovations. Even though eco-innovations are regarded as a driving force within sustainable development, entrepreneurs developing such innovations face barriers such as lack of some technical expertise, limited financial, time and human resources. Generally, two aspects are needed for eco-innovation support i.e. support for technology as well as business development. The selected public support organizations offered business development support through networking, bridging and financing. However, preliminary findings on their current support activities indicate bridging to other actors who can provide technical expertise such as environmental impact assessment and eco-design could be a promising addition to business development. Potential further research includes deeper empirical investigations on the role of public support actors in the development of eco-innovations.
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| 33. |
- Kanda, Wisdom, 1985-, et al.
(författare)
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Challenges of circular new ventures: An empirical analysis of 70 cases
- 2024
-
Ingår i: Journal of Cleaner Production. - : Elsevier. - 0959-6526 .- 1879-1786. ; 442
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- The challenges encountered by established firms transforming their linear business models into circular business models (CBMs) have received extensive research attention. Such firms have experience and market foothold but tend to adopt an incremental approach to CBMs due to risks of business model cannibalization. However, there is relatively limited research on the challenges experienced by new ventures developing CBMs from scratch – circular new ventures. New ventures are often agile, experimental and deploy disruptive CBMs even though they lack resources. The lack of knowledge specific to this topic is constraining for entities such as incubators and accelerators that seek to facilitate the emergence and scale-up of circular new ventures. Furthermore, researchers cannot presume that the challenges experienced by established firms are the same for new ventures when developing CBMs. Thus, the aim of this article is to explore the challenges that new ventures experience while developing circular business models from scratch, synthesize the sources of these challenges and provide practitioner implications to overcome them. In doing so, we studied 70 circular new ventures across Europe. Our article makes four original contributions to the literature. First, our study is seminal in using a large cross-country dataset to qualitatively analyse the empirical challenges of new ventures developing circular business models. Second, we identify which challenges are generic for CBMs, which challenges are specific for certain CBM types and for circular new ventures in particular. Third, we show that the challenges of circular new ventures are determined by their: (i) type of circular business model, (ii) industrial sector, (iii) institutional context, and (iv) new ventures liabilities. Altogether, we highlight that while circular new ventures and new ventures experience several similar challenges, circular new ventures particularly struggle to scale-up due to their liabilities of newness and smallness which limits their resources and legitimacy to enter strategic partnerships crucial for new venture survival.
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| 34. |
- Kanda, Wisdom, 1985-, et al.
(författare)
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Challenges of start-ups developing circular business models
- 2023
-
Ingår i: Proceedings of IDEAS 2022 - An InterdisciplinaryConference on Innovation, Design, Entrepreneurship, and Sustainable Systems.. - : Springer. - 9783031291296 - 9783031291289 ; , s. 139-148
-
Konferensbidrag (refereegranskat)abstract
- The circular economy aims for an effective and efficient resource use. Thus, application of the concept can benefit the sustainability performance of companies. Specifically, business modelling is a key enabler for the transition to a circular economy. However, the related research is dominated by a focus on incumbent companies and their transition from linear to circular business models. This focus risks missing out on actors such as start-ups who can experiment with and develop potentially more radical circular business models. Thus, using interviews with 37 start-ups developing circular business models, we analyzed their characteristics and challenges. Our findings reveal that, such firms encounter general challenges related to circular business modelling and new venture development. Furthermore, such start-ups are often dependent on an ecosystem of actors to create, deliver and capture value based on circular principles. Thus, they encounter challenges to scale up their business based on their liabilities of smallness and dependency. Altogether, these challenges of “circular start-ups” call for a holistic approach to understanding their development process.
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| 35. |
- Kanda, Wisdom, 1985-, et al.
(författare)
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Components of business concepts for the diffusion of large scaled environmental technology systems
- 2016
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Ingår i: Journal of Cleaner Production. - : Elsevier. - 0959-6526 .- 1879-1786. ; 128, s. 156-167
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Strategies for sustainable development are arguably part of the most discussed issues among political and corporate actors. These discussions are spurred by global challenges such as climate change, urbanization, and critical natural resource depletion. Sustainable development will require deep structural and wide-reaching changes in current institutions, technologies, and businesses. Furthermore, new approaches are needed to facilitate the development, diffusion, and implementation of environmental technologies. In the academic discourse different concepts, e.g., ecodesign and Product/Service System design, have been proposed within the framework of sustainable development. To deliver even more system-wide environmental improvements, these concepts have been challenged to be expanded in focus beyond products and services to include large technical systems encompassing non-technological dimensions. Motivated by these, the goal of this article is twofold. First, to offer an expanded view on ecodesign of product/service systems using a perspective of large technical systems. Second, to propose and discuss important components to consider when developing business concepts for the diffusion of large scaled environmental technology systems such as district heating supply, waste management, and renewable energy systems. Using qualitative semi-structured interviews and company documentation analysis, this study examines five companies that develop and diffuse large scaled environmental technology systems. As a result of these case studies, we propose components of business concepts that incorporate both technological and non-technological dimensions. Our proposed business concept components are: market (including regulation), finance, resources, activities, partnership (especially public-private partnership), ownership and responsibility, and legitimacy. Regulation, public-private partnership, and legitimacy are particularly important in the diffusion of large scaled environmental technology systems.
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| 36. |
- Kanda, Wisdom, 1985-, et al.
(författare)
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Conceptualising the system level activities of intermediaries – experiences from the support system for eco-innovators in Finland, Germany and Sweden
- 2018
-
Konferensbidrag (övrigt vetenskapligt/konstnärligt)abstract
- A conceptual gap exists regarding the system level activities of intermediaries. This article addresses this gap by answering research questions about how the system level activities of intermediaries can be conceptualised, and empirical demonstrated. In doing so, we study intermediaries in support systems for eco-innovators in three regions across Finland, Germany and Sweden. From our empirical findings and the literature on systemic intermediaries we conceptualise four systems levels of intermediation: (i) between individual entities, (ii) within networks, (iii) across networks and (iv) within innovation systems. These four conceptual levels are based on: (a) the entities between which the intermediaries operate, (b) the intermediation roles and (c) the scope of appropriation of the potential intermediation benefits. Contrary to previous literature on systemic intermediaries which presents such intermediaries as coherent entities, our discussions suggest a heterogeneity of roles within such intermediaries on multiple system levels which can generate internal tensions. Thus, we introduce the term systemic intermediation as a flexible alternative for describing the system level activities of intermediaries compared to systemic Intermediaries dominant in the literature. For researchers and policy makers, this contribution is an essential step which can facilitate a systematic analysis of the impacts of intermediaries in innovation systems.
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| 37. |
- Kanda, Wisdom, 1985-, et al.
(författare)
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Conceptualising the systemic activities of intermediaries in sustainability transitions
- 2020
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Ingår i: Environmental Innovation and Societal Transitions. - : Elsevier. - 2210-4224 .- 2210-4232. ; 36, s. 449-465
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- This article contributes to the literature on sustainability transitions, innovation systems, and eco-innovation by addressing conceptual challenges regarding the systemic activities of inter-mediaries. Specifically, the article addresses a research gap pertaining to the ways in which the systemic activities of (eco-)innovation intermediaries can be conceptualised and empirically demonstrated. Empirically, the paper examines selected intermediaries in the context of support systems for eco-innovators in three regions across Finland, Germany, and Sweden. Drawing from our empirical findings and the literature on intermediaries, we conceptualise three system levels within which intermediation occurs: (i) in-between entities in a network, (ii) in-between networks of entities, and (iii) in-between actors, networks, and institutions. Our discussion suggests a heterogeneity of roles that individual intermediaries take at multiple system levels, complementing an emerging, more nuanced perspective of intermediaries in sustainability transitions. Thus, we suggest the term systemic intermediation for describing the system-level activities of intermediaries.
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| 38. |
- Kanda, Wisdom, 1985-, et al.
(författare)
-
Design of business concept with environmental technology
- 2013
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Annan publikation (övrigt vetenskapligt/konstnärligt)abstract
- In recent years, strategies for sustainable development are arguably among the most discussed issues among political, public and corporate actors. These discussions are spurred by major trends such as climate change, rapid urbanization, critical material and energy resource depletion. To facilitate sustainable development, deep structural and wide reaching changes seem needed in current technologies, infrastructure, businesses and institutions. In the academic discourse, different concepts, methods and tools, have been proposed and continue to be expounded within the framework of sustainable development. Notable among them include the concepts of ecodesign, and product and service systems design. These concepts have contributed to environmental improvements but have been challenged by critics to be expanded beyond products and services to include non-technological changes in order to deliver system wide environmental improvements.Departing from this background, the goal of this article is twofold, first to offer an expanded view on environmental conscious design of products and services with large scaled sociotechnical systems and then to propose and discuss important components to consider when developing business concepts based on large scaled environmental technology systems. In doing this, we offer a new way of describing business concepts based on large scaled environmental technology systems which incorporates non-technological dimensions such as meeting formal and informal expectations. We propose a set of components to consider when developing business concepts based on large scaled environmental technology offering. These components are: market (including regulations), finance, resources, activities, partnership (especially public-private partnership), ownership and responsibility, and legitimacy. Among these factors, regulation, public-private partnership, and legitimacy were found as particular for environmental technology diffusion.
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| 39. |
- Kanda, Wisdom, 1985-, et al.
(författare)
-
Drivers for and barriers to the diffusion of biogas technologies through export
- 2021
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Ingår i: Technological forecasting & social change. - : Elsevier. - 0040-1625 .- 1873-5509. ; 168
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- The technology diffusion literature has extensively analysed drivers for and barriers to the adoption of renewable energy technologies. However, there are relatively few studies that analyse drivers and barriers from the perspective of renewable energy technology suppliers. An analysis of the supplier-side is complementary to demand-side studies as policy makers seek to stimulate the international diffusion of renewable energy technologies. The international diffusion of renewable energy technologies is necessary for countries to reach their often-ambitious targets regarding independence from fossil-based energy sources. Thus, the aim of this article is to analyse the drivers for and barriers to the international diffusion of renewable energy technologies from the perspective of technology suppliers. In doing so, a survey was conducted amongst 85 biogas technology suppliers in Sweden, with a 34% response rate. Using a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), we analysed differences between their perceived barriers and drivers in the international diffusion of biogas technologies through export. Our findings suggest the need for technology and market-specific export promotion initiatives to complement the generic initiatives available for all exporters and make them more effective.
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| 40. |
- Kanda, Wisdom, 1985-, et al.
(författare)
-
Environmental technology exports : Analyzing Swedish government and firms' initiatives
- 2012
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Konferensbidrag (övrigt vetenskapligt/konstnärligt)abstract
- Some countries have historically relied to a great extent on exports as an important component of theireconomic system. With the current globalization trends and increased competitiveness, promotingexports has therefore become a common strategy in order to boost economic growth. Exports ofenvironmental technologies represent a new window of opportunity for economic growth and acontribution to global sustainability. For this objective, governments provide different initiativesaimed at promoting foreign commerce among firms. The aim of this article is to assess the perceptionof the effectiveness of governmental initiatives for export promotion among Swedish environmentaltechnology firms. In addition, the article addresses firms’ internal initiatives to reach potential foreignmarkets through the use of modern communication channels. Data about 728 Swedish environmentaltechnology companies was collected and analyzed by using a combination of desktop research and aweb-based survey. The findings show a relatively high export orientation among the respondentcompanies. However, a majority of the respondents claim not to be aware of governmental initiativesthat fit their particular needs. Those who do show a high level of participation in such initiatives, butmost could not relate this participation to successful businesses abroad. From the firms’ perspective,presence on the Internet was considered to be a plausible indicator of their internal initiatives tocapture potential foreign customers. An analysis of the companies’ web sites, their languagecustomization options and the information they provide was undertaken. Results show that a largenumber of companies have functional web sites. However, the percentage of web sites with languagecustomization options was relatively low.The findings suggest that governmental initiatives have to consider the particular composition andneeds of the environmental technology sector in order to be more effective. On the other hand,although companies show to be proactive in the use of the Internet for increasing their outreach,language customization must be addressed as an important component when using such a tool. Bothgovernmental and firms’ initiatives remain important contributions to export success. In this regard,collaboration and communication between governmental export promotion agencies and firmsrepresents an important first step.
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| 41. |
- Kanda, Wisdom, 1985-, et al.
(författare)
-
Export of environmental technologies by publicly-owned companies : Approaches, drivers and obstacles among Swedish municipal companies
- 2016
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Ingår i: European Planning Studies. - : Taylor & Francis Group. - 0965-4313 .- 1469-5944. ; 24:12, s. 2175-2196
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- This article focuses on the export of environmental technology by publicly-owned companies. The export of such technologies has the potential to contribute to economic competitiveness and environmental sustainability. However, research on this emerging topic has so far largely focused on privately-owned SMEs compared to publicly-owned companies. Using interviews with twelve Swedish municipally-owned companies which develop such systems and a survey with thirty-six others, we analyse their approaches, drivers for and obstacles to export. These companies use a combination of different approaches such as subsidiaries, independent projects, licensing and private-public partnerships to engage in export. However, in contrast to private companies which are often driven by internal factors such as extra sales, these municipally-owned companies are largely motivated by external factors such as customer requests and opportunities to contribute to environmental sustainability. Furthermore, their main export barriers relate to differences between the business culture and political systems in their home and target markets. Their export experiences are influenced by their municipal ownership, the types of technologies they develop and the institutional contexts within which they operate. This study reveals an actor type struggling to find a balance between domestic obligations and commercialization in international markets.
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| 42. |
- Kanda, Wisdom, 1985-, et al.
(författare)
-
From circular business models to circular business ecosystems
- 2021
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Ingår i: Business Strategy and the Environment. - : John Wiley & Sons. - 0964-4733 .- 1099-0836. ; 30:6, s. 2814-2829
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- The circular economy aims to minimize resource inputs and waste and emission outputs of the economy and its organizational subsystems. This can benefit both financial and sustainability performance of companies. To analyze industrial implementation of the concept, the prevalent unit of analysis on the firm level is currently the circular business model. Our investigation of nine Swedish biogas companies and one branch organization indicates a range of conceptual shortcomings that challenges this approach. Our comparative case analysis points towards circular ecosystems being a more appropriate concept to describe the high level of coordination between different stakeholders necessary to implement circular systems. This increases the suitability to analyze, plan, and communicate circular economy systems on an organizational level, especially if value chain integration is low. An ecosystem perspective can thus support innovation and entrepreneurship in the context of the circular economy.
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| 43. |
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| 44. |
- Kanda, Wisdom, 1985-, et al.
(författare)
-
Functions of intermediaries in eco-innovation: a study of business development organizations and cluster initiatives in a Swedish and a German region
- 2015
-
Konferensbidrag (övrigt vetenskapligt/konstnärligt)abstract
- Eco-innovation continues to gain support as a driving force for sustainable development. In this regard, pressing questions include how to stimulate the development, diffusion and use of eco-innovations. Often, firms engaged with eco-innovation need to connect to intermediary organizations (e.g. business development organizations, regional clusters, universities, financers, incubators) to get hold of necessary resources to tackle the challenges in the innovation process. This article analyses the functions of such intermediary organizations for eco-innovation by focusing on public–owned business development organizations and cluster initiatives in the Region Scania, Sweden and North Rhine Westphalia, Germany. We synthesise at least eight functions of intermediaries for eco-innovation as: (i) forecasting and road mapping (ii) resource mobilization (iii) networking and partnerships (iv) commercialization (v) technical consulting (vi) information scanning and distribution (vii) sector branding and legitimation (viii) prototyping and piloting. The support functions often take a “one-size-fits-all” approach with few initiatives particularly tailored for eco-innovations. This can be explained by the market complementarity roles of public intermediaries, their resource constraints and the cross-sectoral nature of eco-innovation. Even though, intermediary functions are often appreciated by clients and financers, it is often difficult to establish a causal relation between the support and eco-innovation outcomes, a challenge which undermines the existence of intermediaries themselves. Despite these challenges, potential good practices point to a mix between general “one-size-fits-all” and tailored support activities for different types of eco-innovations and firms. Furthermore, interaction between various types of intermediaries is important since there are often numerous actors and initiatives working with eco-innovation which can confuse firms. When it comes to stimulating radical eco-innovations, a proactive approach to intermediation is particularly important.
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| 45. |
- Kanda, Wisdom, 1985-, et al.
(författare)
-
Governmental export promotion initiatives : awareness, participation, and perceived effectiveness among Swedish environmental technology firms
- 2015
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Ingår i: Journal of Cleaner Production. - : Elsevier. - 0959-6526 .- 1879-1786. ; 98, s. 222-228
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Some countries rely heavily on exports as an essential component of their economic competitiveness. With the current trends in economic globalization, promoting exports has become a common strategy to boost economic growth. Exports of environmental technologies represent a new window of opportunity for economic growth and a contribution to global sustainability. With this in mind, national governments have designed initiatives that aim to promote exports within this sector. To address their objectives, governments provide initiatives to promote foreign commerce with their environmental technology sector. This article assesses the awareness, participation, and perceived effectiveness of such governmental initiatives to promote exports among Swedish environmental technology firms. An Internet survey was sent to 693 Swedish environmental technology companies, previously identified and classified, with a 25% response rate. The responses show a relatively high export orientation although a majority of the respondents claimed they were unaware of governmental initiatives that fit their particular export needs. The companies that did find appropriate governmental initiatives showed a high level of participation in such initiatives, but only a few of these participants could relate their participation to actual exports. The findings suggest there is a need to design support instruments based on the particular characteristics of the environmental technology sector rather than to offer generic solutions for such export promotion.
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| 46. |
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| 47. |
- Kanda, Wisdom, 1985-, et al.
(författare)
-
Policy coherence in a fragmented context : the case of biogas systems in Brazil
- 2022
-
Ingår i: Energy Research & Social Science. - Amsterdam, Netherlands : Elsevier. - 2214-6296 .- 2214-6326. ; 87
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Policy mixes are needed to overcome the different barriers hindering sustainability transitions. This creates the need for policy coherence. Policy coherence studies in sustainability transitions literature are dominated by European cases, limiting their generalizability. This article analyzes policy mixes related to biogas systems and their related coherence issues, and, how that influences biogas production and use in Brazil. We identified policy coherence within and between biogas related sectors and over time, showing how the pre-conditions for biogas production, distribution and use differ considerably between the Brazilian states. This points to a need for decentralized governance structures to enable policy differentiation, as a complement to policy coherence. The article concludes that the characteristics of biogas systems as being locally embedded constitutes a challenge in hierarchical market economies such as Brazil, where policy development, resource mobilization and allocation are highly centralized.
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| 48. |
- Kanda, Wisdom, 1985-, et al.
(författare)
-
Promoting the export of environmental technologies : governmental initiatives in selected countries
- 2013
-
Annan publikation (övrigt vetenskapligt/konstnärligt)abstract
- Rapid international and widespread diffusion of environmental technologies remains an essential requirement within the framework of sustainable development. Export offers a desired means for technology diffusion due to its strategic flexibility compared to other means such as foreign direct investment and aid. However, the export of environmental technologies is stifled by market failures. Among other reasons and as a response to such market failures, several governments are formulating initiatives to promote the export of environmental technologies. Although diffusion promotion is highlighted as an important research focus, a systematic overview of governmental initiatives that aim to promote environmental technology export is not available in the literature. This gap in the literature makes it difficult to analyse program effectiveness, and identify best practices. Using documentation from export promotion and export credit agencies in eight selected countries across Asia, Europe, and North America, we discuss governmental initiatives that aim to promote the export of environmental technologies. Our synthesis reveals that governmental promotion can be categorised according to alternative promotional services and is applied across target country(ies), environmental technology type(s), firm size(s), and firm involvement in export. In addition, using theories from market failure and diffusion studies, we discuss similarities and differences between country initiatives. Trends indicate a focus on support for small and medium sized environmental technology exporters but interesting differences emerge with the choice of target markets, technologies, and the specific export promotion services.
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| 49. |
- Kanda, Wisdom, 1985-, et al.
(författare)
-
Promoting the export of environmental technologies: An analysis of governmental initiatives from eight countries
- 2016
-
Ingår i: Environmental Development. - : Elsevier. - 2211-4645 .- 2211-4653. ; 17, s. 73-87
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Export represents a means for the diffusion of environmental technologies with potential socio-economic and environmental benefits. However, environmental technology providers experience export barriers which stifle export and thus several governments continue to formulate export promotion initiatives towards this sector. Although export promotion is identified as essential in the environmental technology policy literature, it is yet to receive attention as to which initiatives are available in different countries including their potential relevance for environmental sustainability. Such knowledge is fundamental for policy learning and transfer including identification of good practices.To address this knowledge gap, we use market failure and comparative public policy theories to analyse export promotion initiatives from export promotion and export credit agencies across eight countries in Asia, Europe, and North America. Three major conclusions emerge: (1) governmental initiatives to promote environmental technology export can be categorised under financial aid, information provision, education and training, and trade mobility programs; (2) policy choices regarding promotion initiatives are mediated by the institutional context and interests of policy actors (3) relevant aspects of such initiatives for environmental sustainability include the incorporation of particular environmental technology characteristics in initiative formulation, and the prioritisation between different technology and markets types for implementation.
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| 50. |
- Kanda, Wisdom, 1985-, et al.
(författare)
-
Roles of intermediaries in supporting eco-innovation
- 2018
-
Ingår i: Journal of Cleaner Production. - : Elsevier. - 0959-6526 .- 1879-1786. ; 205, s. 1006-1016
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Eco-innovation is an approach to environmental sustainability. However, the process of eco-innovation can be challenging especially for small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs). Thus, SMEs might seek external support to tackle some of their challenges in eco-innovation. In this article, we focus on one type of organization providing and also assisting SMEs to access support, intermediaries, i.e. an organization or body that acts as an agent or broker in the innovation process. Intermediaries support firms in the innovation process through various generic and customised activities. To identify such activities and describe the roles intermediaries take in eco-innovation, we conducted interviews and documentation analysis on selected intermediaries in two regions – Scania, Sweden and North Rhine Westphalia, Germany. The identified roles among our cases include: (i) forecasting and road mapping, (ii) information gathering and dissemination, (iii) fostering networking and partnerships, (iv) prototyping and piloting, (v) technical consulting, (vi) resource mobilisation, (vii) commercialisation, and (viii) branding and legitimation. In relation to the specific characteristics of eco-innovations, the intermediary roles such as prototyping and piloting, information gathering and dissemination, and branding were directly targeted at validating the environmental benefits of eco-innovations to tackle their “double externality” challenge. However, we found little intermediation activities from our cases directed explicitly at policy change for eco-innovation. For policy makers, our results suggest a complementary use of different types of intermediaries to support eco-innovation.
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