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Enviromental Innovations, Complementarity and Local/Global Cooperation

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  • Giulio Cainelli
  • Massimiliano Mazzanti
  • Roberto Zoboli

Abstract

This paper exploits a rich, new innovation based dataset of 555 industrial firms, located in the Emilia Romagna region in 2006-2008, to analyse complementarity in factors related to eco-innovation (EI) and to test the role of firm cooperation and internationally oriented strategies. EI is providing additional competitive advantage and is relevant to all EU industries. Results show that the degree of complementarity between various correlated EI factors is quite high, with networking and corporate social responsibility (CSR) playing dominant roles. It would seem that EIs do not undermine economic performance, either in the short run or in the context of the global financial crisis. Econometric analyses highlight that international characteristics, especially foreign ownership, and networking with other firms and institutions are important for EI adoption, while general research and development is less so. Over and above the structural features of firms, strategic relationships within regions and at the international level are relevant and differentiate innovative performance. Spots of a green dawn seem appearing from the historical 'brown' and polluting industrial setting of the region. Its brilliant economic performances could decouple if this improvement continues. This study provides and in depth regional investigation which could complement the information gathered in the last wave of the Community Innovation Survey which included questions on EI.

Suggested Citation

  • Giulio Cainelli & Massimiliano Mazzanti & Roberto Zoboli, 2011. "Enviromental Innovations, Complementarity and Local/Global Cooperation," Working Papers 201104, University of Ferrara, Department of Economics.
    • Handle: RePEc:udf:wpaper:201104
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Eco-innovation; complementarity; local industrial systems; networking; international strategies;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C21 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Single Equation Models; Single Variables - - - Cross-Sectional Models; Spatial Models; Treatment Effect Models
    • L60 - Industrial Organization - - Industry Studies: Manufacturing - - - General
    • O13 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Agriculture; Natural Resources; Environment; Other Primary Products
    • O30 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - General
    • Q20 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Renewable Resources and Conservation - - - General
    • Q58 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Environmental Economics - - - Environmental Economics: Government Policy

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