Sustainable entrepreneurs are considered to play a crucial role in fostering sustainable development. However, transitions in sociotechnical systems, such as a transition to low-carbon energy solutions, are unlikely to succeed without the coordination with regional political actions, particularly in sectors characterized by path dependency and lock-ins. Based on an empirical analysis of the interplay between firms and public authorities when opening new energy niche markets through Sustainable Energy Action Plans, this article explores the role of sustainable entrepreneurs. We investigate the different levels of engagement with public authorities in coevolutionary processes toward sustainable development. From this empirical research, four types of co-evolutionist sustainable entrepreneur are derived—hero, visionary, bandwagoner, and explorer. These correspond to the different degrees of interaction with public authorities and system level of action, and extend the definition of the sustainable entrepreneur. The related academic and managerial implications contribute to the current debate on sustainable entrepreneurship.
The Interplay Between Sustainable Entrepreneurs and Public Authorities: Evidence From Sustainable Energy Transitions
Gasbarro, Federica
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2017-01-01
Abstract
Sustainable entrepreneurs are considered to play a crucial role in fostering sustainable development. However, transitions in sociotechnical systems, such as a transition to low-carbon energy solutions, are unlikely to succeed without the coordination with regional political actions, particularly in sectors characterized by path dependency and lock-ins. Based on an empirical analysis of the interplay between firms and public authorities when opening new energy niche markets through Sustainable Energy Action Plans, this article explores the role of sustainable entrepreneurs. We investigate the different levels of engagement with public authorities in coevolutionary processes toward sustainable development. From this empirical research, four types of co-evolutionist sustainable entrepreneur are derived—hero, visionary, bandwagoner, and explorer. These correspond to the different degrees of interaction with public authorities and system level of action, and extend the definition of the sustainable entrepreneur. The related academic and managerial implications contribute to the current debate on sustainable entrepreneurship.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
