Technological innovations and sustainability transitions in the bioeconomy: a multiscalar approach toward the development of bioclusters

Abstract

The bioeconomy offers solutions to urgent sustainability challenges, such as climate change, resource scarcity, and world hunger. Bioclusters, which are localized hubs of bioeconomy activities, can create synergies in the use of natural resources and new technological knowledge, thereby providing fertile ground for sustainability transitions and technological innovations in the bioeconomy. Following an interdisciplinary perspective, this dissertation adopts a multiscalar view toward bioclusters to link them with broader contexts and study their role in the bioeconomy transition. By employing quantitative and qualitative methodologies, I analyze the technological and ecological development of the French Bazancourt-Pomacle biocluster. The results reveal the dynamics and interrelations among specific scales and levels linked to positive ecological and technological outcomes, providing valuable insights for policymakers and managers aiming to advance the bioeconomy.