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Towards a Sustainable Digital Economy: The Role of Knowledge Search in Green Innovation

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  • Kim, Chang Hyun
  • Lee, Kyung Yul
  • Kwon, Youngsun

Abstract

This study explores how knowledge search depth and breadth in green patenting influence environmental innovation in the mobile industry, a sector facing increasing scrutiny for its environmental impact. Using a panel of 42 mobile firms from 2001 to 2023, we find that search depth exhibits an inverted U-shaped relationship with green innovation, suggesting that while leveraging internal knowledge initially boosts environmental innovation, excessive reliance can hinder progress due to organizational rigidity. Conversely, search breadth demonstrates a consistently positive effect, indicating that expanding external knowledge sources enhances a firm's capacity for sustainable innovation. These findings underscore the strategic importance of balancing internal and external knowledge strategies to foster green innovation in the mobile sector.

Suggested Citation

  • Kim, Chang Hyun & Lee, Kyung Yul & Kwon, Youngsun, 2025. "Towards a Sustainable Digital Economy: The Role of Knowledge Search in Green Innovation," 33rd European Regional ITS Conference, Edinburgh, 2025: Digital innovation and transformation in uncertain times 331286, International Telecommunications Society (ITS).
    • Handle: RePEc:zbw:itse25:331286
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    References listed on IDEAS

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