Green innovation (GI) is pivotal for enterprises aiming at green development. However, there is a lack of comprehensive research on the configurations that lead to high-level GI, especially considering the diversity among firms. Leveraging the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) framework, this study employs fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA) on data from 1,293 listed Chinese enterprises spanning 2010-2021 to uncover the intricate paths towards achieving substantial GI. Our findings reveal distinct pathways for high-tech and non-high-tech enterprises, elucidating the nuanced interplay between internal capabilities and external incentives. Specifically, we identify five configurations for high-level GI in high-tech enterprises, epitomised by a 'dual-wheel drive' of government support and digital transformation underpinned by signal theory. In contrast, two configurations are discernible for non-high-tech enterprises, characterised by a synergistic 'government and senior executive cooperation' model grounded in resource-based theory. These insights culminate in two propositions regarding GI configuration, advocating for an outcome equivalence perspective. This research represents a pioneering exploration that connects firm heterogeneity with the configuration of internal and external conditions through lenses of 'structure' and 'collaboration,' offering novel pathways for green innovation across diverse enterprise landscapes.

Liu Yiyang; Wang Ying

Technology analysis & strategic management，2024-04, p.1-15