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Eco-Innovation in the Food and Beverage Industry: Persistence and the Influence of Crises

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  • Antonio García-Sánchez

    (Department of Economics and Economic History, Universidad de Sevilla Avda Ramón y, Cajal 1, 41018 Sevilla, Spain
    GRINEI (Research Group on Economics and Politics of Innovation), Instituto Complutense de Estudios Internacionales ICEI, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28223 Madrid, Spain)

  • Ruth Rama

    (GRINEI (Research Group on Economics and Politics of Innovation), Instituto Complutense de Estudios Internacionales ICEI, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28223 Madrid, Spain
    CSIC (National Research Council of Spain), IEGD (Instituto de Economía, Geografía y Demografía), Albasanz, 26–28, 28037 Madrid, Spain)

Abstract

This study explores the role of persistence in eco-innovative (EI) activities in enhancing firms’ resilience during crises, focusing on the Spanish food and beverage industry. It distinguishes between two types of eco-innovators: efficiency-focused eco-innovators, who aim to reduce material and energy usage, and environmental eco-innovators, who seek to minimize direct harm to the environment. Additionally, the analysis evaluates the impact of regulation and institutional interventions on fostering eco-innovation during economic downturns. Using panel data from Spanish food and beverage companies between 2004 and 2016, we adopt a longitudinal approach to study how long-term commitments to EI influence green technology adoption. We identify three distinct periods: 2004–2007 (boom), 2008–2013 (crisis), and 2014–2016 (recovery). Finally, the study analyses the most effective institutional interventions and corporate green strategies for fostering the green transition during challenging times. The analysis provides theoretical insights and tailored managerial and policy recommendations.

Suggested Citation

  • Antonio García-Sánchez & Ruth Rama, 2025. "Eco-Innovation in the Food and Beverage Industry: Persistence and the Influence of Crises," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(7), pages 1-35, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:7:p:2971-:d:1621862
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