dc.description.abstract |
This research focuses on sustainability-oriented innovation (SOI) in agri-food systems. Current agri-food systems are unsustainable, exacerbating resource depletion, biodiversity loss, and greenhouse gas emissions. Transition must therefore be achieved to more sustainable forms, and innovation is critical to that project. However, current SOI literature focuses at the firm rather than systems level, and on technology rather than the impact of technology on social systems. This thesis responds to this gap in understanding by employing the multi-level perspective (MLP) to investigate SOI in agri-food systems at three levels: (1) Macro (institutional and cultural), (2) Meso (industry practices), and (3) Micro (firms and consumers). A single case study of the New Zealand aquaculture industry informs the research. In recent decades, global aquaculture has evolved from traditional practice to industrial science. However, in New Zealand, aquaculture is a relatively recent phenomenon, enabling the study of an agri-food industry from the outset. Methods and source triangulation is supported by 11 in-depth interviews of industry producers, regulators and expert observers, a seven-month participant observation of the activities of a global industry consulting group, and analysis of multiple secondary data sources. Three themes emerged: Born Green, Social Licence to Operate, and Uncertainty & Risk. New Zealand aquaculture emerged in the 1990s. The Resource Management Act ensured environmental concerns were addressed from the outset. Regulatory licence to operate, however, does not ensure social licence to operate (SLO). Public misconceptions about environmental impact, lack of positive industry visibility, and internal industry conflict exacerbate this problem. Industry expansion is constrained through social pressure to reduce consented farming space. However, expansion is critical to industry development. Consequently, industry players operate under conditions of risk and uncertainty, constraining investment in transformational (i.e. SOI-oriented) innovation. In conclusion, macro-level influences (SLO and regulation) act as a lock-in mechanism constraining SOI actors in the aquaculture agri-food system. To address this lock-in, industry players should work with government and social actors to create shared value for both internal and external stakeholders, using technology as a platform. |
en |