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

Evidence from Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Longyan

authored by

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.

Organisation(s)

Institute of Economic and Human Geography

External Organisation(s)

University of Stellenbosch

Type

Article

Journal

GEOFORUM

Volume

161

No. of pages

13

ISSN

0016-7185

Publication date

05.2025

Publication status

Published

Peer reviewed

Yes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

Sociology and Political Science

Sustainable Development Goals

SDG 11 - Sustainable Cities and Communities

Electronic version(s)

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.geoforum.2025.104247 (Access: Open)