Diffusion and Adoption of Innovations for Sustainability

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Author(s): Helen E. Muga (University of Mount Union, USA)and Ken D. Thomas (Auburn University, USA)
Copyright: 2012
Pages: 16
Source title: Technological, Managerial and Organizational Core Competencies: Dynamic Innovation and Sustainable Development
Source Author(s)/Editor(s): Farley Simon Nobre (Federal University of Parana, Brazil), David Walker (University of Birmingham, UK)and Robert J. Harris (The University of Wolverhampton Business School, UK)
DOI: 10.4018/978-1-61350-165-8.ch005

Keywords: Business & Management / Business & Organizational Research / Business and Organizational Research / Business Science Reference

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Abstract

The primary focus of this chapter is on the theory and concepts of sustainability and why they are important to innovation and vice-versa. Key reductionist approaches to assessing sustainability such life cycle assessment (LCA), life cycle cost analysis (LCCA), and sustainability indicators are discussed in detail and applied to an engineering infrastructure scenario. The integrated sustainability methods of life cycle assessment and life cycle cost analysis enable a business to assess alternative products or processes at the planning and design stages. They may also be used during the production stages to assess whether a business needs to use a different raw material to make their products. The role of management, social network analysis, and mental models of individuals in the diffusion and adoption of innovations are also explored.

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Diffusion and Adoption of Innovations for Sustainability

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