Exploring network strategies for eco-innovation in manufacturing from a triple helix perspective

Networks in modern manufacturing are crucial for pooling resources, and eco-innovation enables manufacturers adopt sustainable production and environmentally friendly offerings. This article aims to explore network strategies for eco-innovation in manufacturing, from the viewpoints of industrial, academic, and governmental experts, i.e., using the triple helix model. Based on semi-structured interviews with 46 purposive sampled manufacturing experts, the article applies thematic analysis to identify categories of collaborative network and complex ecosystem strategies for eco-innovation. The analysis finds eight themes as strategies that centre on actions and commitment for stakeholder involvement, benchmarking support, capacity building, information protection, transition readiness, awareness campaigns, management audits, and plant designs. Theoretically, the findings imply network framings for the problem, potential, and priorities of eco-innovation in manufacturing, and practically the study suggests three critical factors for enhancing eco-innovation networks: (i) network platforms and forums, (ii) strategic alignment, and (iii) sustainability roadmaps. Using these network framings, the research contributes to current debates on eco-innovation strategies in cleaner production. The article concludes with discussions on the limitations and potential future research directions.