THE ECO-INNOVATION CONCEPTS THROUGH A STRATEGIC PERSPECTIVE

摘要

The eco-innovation has been playing a major role in the adaptation of organizations to climate changes. In this regard, several studies have been proposed in connection with the concepts and types of eco-innovation, as well as the effectiveness of environment management practices within companies. Although it is relatively simple to identify the concepts of eco-innovation which have achieved success, the analysis of the structure and content of potential eco-innovations has been a challenge - mainly regarding products development, which is more often associated with greater competitive advantage. With a focus on eco-efficiency, the eco-innovation presented in results of empirical studies seems to be·far from the types of innovation that have the potential to achieve sustainable development. Despite of being broadly defined in a number of taxonomies and typologies, some conceptualizations of eco-innovation differ on the strategic nature that is directed towards environmental issues. Similarly, the approach of companies to the environmental dimension is not homogeneous, indicating different levels of practice, which can vary from mere compliance with applicable regulation, to the environmental pro-activity, which transforms environmental issues into business opportunities. These levels of practice are distinguished mainly by the articulation between environmental objectives and business strategy. This study aims to develop a theoretical framework through the analysis of taxonomies and typologies of eco-innovation comprising the definition of the term, the innovative potential and the patterns of corporate environment management. The research proposes a debate about the relevance of the environmental issues strategic nature in the concept of eco-innovation, in order to relate the strategic bias to its innovative potential - in terms of degree of novelty. Through the conceptual-theoretical research method, it could be verified that the inclusion of environmental issues as a guide to the development of an innovation, i.e. as part of the company strategic planning, brings greater possibilities for real sustainable potential. It was possible to confirm the importance of a strategic bias, in addition to the eco-efficiency, in the classification of eco-innovations. The proposed debate is extremely valuable to enrich the relevant field of knowledge and to stimulate changes in environmental perception and positioning within a organizational context.