Transformative Economies

^{Graphic: Valentin Rüegg 2023}

Motivation

Considering grand challenges like biodiversity loss and climate change, a profound change toward economic activities within planetary boundaries may become necessary. As so-called “transformative enterprises” small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can become important change agents in this process. Such enterprises contribute in important ways to the sustainable development of the local economy in mountain regions. This research project examines transformative enterprises using the example of the wood-processing industry in the Canton of Berne (CH) and the Vorarlberg region (AUT).

Goals

This research projects aims at identifying and characterizing transformative enterprises in the wood-processing industry. Further, it illuminates the challenges transformative enterprises encounter and proposes support measures for such enterprises.

Support

This research project is co-financed by the Wyss Academy for Nature, Hub Bern, and the Canton of Bern.