Challenge-oriented regional innovation systems (CORIS): sustainability transformations in the timber sector

Abstract

Given ecological and economic challenges in natural resource-based industries, the timber sector is usually not perceived as particularly innovative or transformative. However, in the Austrian province of Vorarlberg, this industry has played a key role in socio-economic transformation since the 1960s when so-called Baukünstler (building artists) started to revolutionise the local architectural scene with their timber houses. They induced changes which led to the integration of sustainability challenges in the regional innovation system (RIS) of the timber sector. In contrast, the timber sector of the Canton of Bern in Switzerland represents a case of latecomer when it comes to transformative changes. By drawing on the concept of challenge-oriented regional innovation systems (CORISs) and comparing the case of Vorarlberg with that of Bern, we study RIS reconfiguration, i.e., how RISs integrate sustainability challenges and eventually become a CORIS. The comparison is insightful for identifying RIS elements (actors, networks and institutions) which enhance challenge orientation. Moreover, it indicates that individual change agents with extra-regional connections and networking capabilities are key bearers of system-level change agency. Our insights contribute to understanding transformation processes at a systemic level and illustrate how natural resource-based industries can show the way to sustainable futures.