Local varieties of state-directed green and digital innovation processes in China

Evidence from Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Longyan

verfasst von

Chris Brueck, Ingo Liefner

Abstract

This paper analyzes the state-directed organization of green and digital innovation processes in China. Building on a qualitative approach, we selected the three case study regions Shanghai, Hangzhou (Zhejiang) and Longyan (Fujian), and conducted 23 expert interviews with various private and government actors. Following an analytical framework based on state rescaling processes, the data were analyzed using a content analysis and categories structured according to government levels, governance processes and technology domains. The findings reveal that state-directed innovation processes are shaped between local actor constellations and national, regional and local government levels, impacting local policy application. While Shanghai pursues a top-down approach in guiding multinational and domestic enterprises, Longyan traces agency-driven bottom-up processes centered around a local flagship company, and Hangzhou combines a top-down approach with selective bottom-up policy. Based on the findings, we develop a typology for local coordination processes during policy implementation. Our findings help to better understand the diversity of the organization of green and digital innovation processes in Chinese cities.

Organisationseinheit(en)

Institut für Wirtschafts- und Kulturgeographie

Externe Organisation(en)

University of Stellenbosch

Typ

Artikel

Journal

GEOFORUM

Band

161

Anzahl der Seiten

13

ISSN

0016-7185

Publikationsdatum

05.2025

Publikationsstatus

Veröffentlicht

Peer-reviewed

Ja

ASJC Scopus Sachgebiete

Soziologie und Politikwissenschaften

Ziele für nachhaltige Entwicklung

SDG 11 – Nachhaltige Städte und Gemeinschaften

Elektronische Version(en)

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.geoforum.2025.104247 (Zugang: Offen)