Policy mixes for sustainable innovation: conceptual considerations and empirical insights

Abstract

This chapter provides an overview of advances in conceptual thinking and empirical applications addressing policy mixes for sustainable innovation. It starts by providing an overview of ‘instrument mix’ studies focusing on interacting instruments aimed at achieving sustainable innovation. It then covers broader ‘policy mix’ conceptualizations which better reflect the complexity of real-world policy mixes for sustainable innovation. These broader conceptualizations encompass but go beyond instrument mixes by also paying dedicated attention to policy strategies, policy processes and policy mix characteristics. While such a broader policy mix concept has been developed in the context of sustainable innovation, it may also inform transformative innovation policy in the context of other grand societal challenges. The chapter also discusses research on the co-evolution of policy mixes and sustainable innovation, highlighting the importance of a dynamic approach to policy mix research. The chapter closes with a discussion o research implications.