Search

Begin New Search Topic Innovation Publication Year within 3 Years

91. National Science Foundation Technology Innovation Partnership Evaluation

Author:
Barry Bozeman, Nick Hart, Randolph Lyon, Theresa Pardo, and Janet Weiss
Publication Date:
11-2023
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
The National Academy of Public Administration (NAPA)
Abstract:
The National Science Foundation (NSF) is an independent federal agency established in 1950 by Congress "to promote the progress of science; to advance the national health, prosperity, and welfare; to secure the national defense." NSF supports research and the fields of fundamental science and engineering, except for medical sciences, and helps the United States drive leading discoveries. In March 2022, NSF established the Directorate for Technology, Innovation, and Partnerships (TIP). TIP was created to focus on significant challenges and opportunities across the entire science and engineering enterprise and to strengthen and scale the critical research that will drive future technologies and solutions. The NSF required an assessment of the organizational and management structure of the NSF's Directorate for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships. The Academy: Evaluated and made recommendations to efficiently and effectively implement the Directorate for Technology, Innovation, and Partnerships; and Evaluated and made recommendations to ensure coordination of the Directorate for Technology, Innovation, and Partnerships with other directorates and offices of the Foundation and other Federal agencies.
Topic:
Government, Science and Technology, Innovation, Management, Performance Evaluation, and Public Administration
Political Geography:
North America and United States of America

92. The Economics of Reduced-Risk Products: Global policy landscape and principles for policy treatment

Author:
Oxford Economics
Publication Date:
11-2023
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Oxford Economics
Abstract:
Heated Tobacco Products (HTPs) and vapour products (e.g., e-cigarettes) are new categories of Reduced-Risk Products (RRPs) in the tobacco market that have gained in popularity in recent years, with global sales of approximately US $20 billion each in 2020. In response, the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) has generally advocated a precautionary stance. For HTPs that can mean imposing equivalent fiscal and non-fiscal rules that are applied to combustible tobacco products. For e-cigarettes, it can mean strict controls on usage, with a focus on protecting vulnerable groups. However, pursuing a harsh stance towards RRPs could potentially limit policymakers’ options for mitigating health risks, and puts at risk the positive economic footprint supported by the RRP industry, in terms of the GDP, jobs, wages, and large R&D investments it supports. Against this backdrop, we propose three key principles that regulating authorities should adhere to for optimal outcomes in their approach to RRPs: tailor restrictions on RRP usage to different groups; differentiate the treatment of RRPs from combustible tobacco products; and incentivise innovation in industry to achieve better health outcomes at the population level.
Topic:
Economics, Health, Regulation, Innovation, Tobacco, and Reduced-Risk Products
Political Geography:
Global Focus

93. Foreign Linkages, Innovation & Productivity: Evidence from Enterprise Surveys

Author:
Anmol Kaur Grewal
Publication Date:
09-2023
Content Type:
Working Paper
Institution:
Centre for Trade and Economic Integration, The Graduate Institute (IHEID)
Abstract:
This paper estimates a three-stage structural model of how foreign linkages affect innovation which in turn affects firm productivity. Using harmonized firm-level data from the World Bank Enterprise Surveys, I construct a panel dataset for 47 developing countries spanning 2003 to 2019. I distinguish between four types of foreign linkages (exports, imports, inward foreign direct investment (FDI) and the use of foreign-licensed technology), and two types of innovation (product innovation and process innovation). To mitigate concerns regarding sample selection and endogeneity biases, I employ advanced panel data methods. In the first stage, I find that being an exporter, using foreign inputs, and using foreign-licensed technology makes firms more likely to invest in R&D, relative to other firms. I also find evidence of sample selection bias which is corrected by using a two-step Heckman selection model. In the second stage, I find that while increases in the R&D intensity increase the probability of product innovation, they have no statistically significant effect on the likelihood of process innovation. In the third stage, I find that product or process innovation is associated with increases in firm-level productivity. These results remain robust across alternative measures of innovation and firm productivity.
Topic:
Development, Foreign Direct Investment, Exports, Innovation, Imports, Productivity, and Foreign Linkages
Political Geography:
Global Focus

94. Defence Innovation and Women’s Participation in the Armed Forces: An Analysis of PISFLEMB

Author:
Natalia Diniz Schwether and Carlos Eduardo Franco Azevedo
Publication Date:
09-2023
Content Type:
Journal Article
Journal:
Contexto Internacional
Institution:
Institute of International Relations, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro
Abstract:
Throughout history, on several occasions, technological advances have driven fundamental changes in the defence sector. The increasing availability and technological dependence led to the redefinition of pre-established functions, the modification of the main missions, and even the rearticulation of traditional values ​​of the military institution. From this perspective, the article aims to answer the following question: in what way did the Project for the Integration of Female Personnel in the Line of Military Warfare Education (PISFLEMB) promote innovation in the Brazilian Armed Forces? It is argued that the participation of women in a traditionally male institution is responsible for generating organizational innovation, both in values and conduct. Data will be collected through official documents and primary sources as modelled for analysis of military innovations. The study is distinguished by the understanding that innovations in the defence sector are an opportunity for transformation and a stimulus for changing patterns of conduct.
Topic:
Defense Policy, Science and Technology, Armed Forces, Women, and Innovation
Political Geography:
Brazil and South America

95. The Sources of China’s Innovativeness: Why China’s “Unstoppable” Innovation Powerhouse Might Falter

Author:
Tim Rühlig
Publication Date:
10-2023
Content Type:
Commentary and Analysis
Institution:
German Council on Foreign Relations (DGAP)
Abstract:
Western governments appear to fear that China is an ­innovation power­house on an almost unstoppable path to dominating ­future technologies. This is quite a turnaround. Only a few years ago, Western policies were crafted on the assumption that China was a copycat incapable of innovation. A focus on Intellectual Property theft as the Chinese “sin” that drove China’s technological development led many in the West to miss what I have identified as the “Five Virtues” that have made China the innovation powerhouse it is today. China’s future success is not ­in­evitable, however, but dependent on a delicate policy ecosystem.
Topic:
Science and Technology, Intellectual Property/Copyright, Innovation, and Geoeconomics
Political Geography:
China and Asia

96. Technological Sophistication Made in China? – New Insights from Germany’s Evaluation of COVID-19 Antigen Rapid Tests

Author:
Silas Dreier and Wan-Hsin Liu
Publication Date:
11-2023
Content Type:
Working Paper
Institution:
Kiel Institute for the World Economy (IfW)
Abstract:
By analyzing a unique dataset from Germany’s evaluation of COVID-19 antigen rapid tests, we show that Chinese firms can excel under today’s global competition and produce tests at quality levels higher than China’s income level would suggest. We find these achievements are positively associated with China’s rising innovation capability and robust industrial base. Further strengthening China’s innovation and industrial base to support Chinese firms’ future accomplishments is what the Chinese government clearly aims for. This would intensify the challenges facing Western economies that strive for technological sovereignty and eagerly seek to de-risk their economic relations with China.
Topic:
International Trade and Finance, Science and Technology, Innovation, Trade, COVID-19, Production, and Geoeconomics
Political Geography:
China, Asia, and Germany

97. Awareness of artificial intelligence: Diffusion of information about AI versus ChatGPT in the United States

Author:
Rajeev K. Goel and Michael A. Nelson
Publication Date:
11-2023
Content Type:
Working Paper
Institution:
Kiel Institute for the World Economy (IfW)
Abstract:
This paper addresses the awareness about the artificial intelligence across states in the United States. We uniquely create indices of Google internet search results for general AI awareness and about ChatGPT, normalizing alternatively by internet users and land area. An understanding of the awareness about AI would provide useful insights into regulatory attempts to monitor and guard the AI technologies, besides suggesting alternatives for laggard states to catch up. Econometric results to explain the drivers of AI awareness show that, ceteris paribus, more prosperous states had greater awareness about AI and ChatGPT. On the other hand, states with greater economic freedom had a lower awareness. States with more men to women has lower AI awareness when hits were normalized by area, but the reverse was true when weighted by internet users. States with a higher proportion of the elderly population were no different from the other states, while those with greater urbanization had more AI/ChatGPT awareness when the internet hits were weighted by land area. Finally, states bordering Canada were no different from other states, while states bordering Mexico generally had a lower AI/ChatGPT awareness.
Topic:
Urbanization, Innovation, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Digitalization, Gender, and ChatGPT
Political Geography:
North America and United States of America

98. Technology needs for climate adaptation in agriculture: Evidence from Africa

Author:
African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF)
Publication Date:
01-2023
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF)
Abstract:
The adoption of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) plays a pivotal role in driving innovation to combat climate change in African agriculture. This policy brief underscores key factors influencing ICT adoption in agriculture, with a special emphasis on affordability, cost-effectiveness, and clear economic benefits. Access to digital farming solutions and ICT tools is rapidly spreading across the continent, particularly in providing farmers with essential weather information, market access, and improved agricultural practices. Despite these promising developments, significant challenges such as high data costs, limited digital literacy, and gender-based digital disparities must be addressed to ensure inclusivity in technological access. Furthermore, the knowledge product demonstrates the critical role of climate-resilient crop varieties and adaptable livestock breeds in agricultural technological innovation. This includes drought-tolerant, heat-resistant, and diseaseresistant crops, as well as livestock breeds suited for changing environmental conditions. Water management and irrigation technologies, such as precision agriculture and data analytics, are critical to optimizing resource use, increasing efficiency, and empowering women in agriculture. This document emphasizes the importance of ICT in closing technological gaps, improving weather monitoring, promoting resilient crops and livestock, and fostering sustainable practices across African agricultural systems. A gender-responsive approach to technological innovation is essential for ensuring equitable participation and closing existing gaps. Finally, the knowledge product emphasizes the importance of policy support, capacity development, and public-private partnerships in effectively integrating ICT into agriculture. By harnessing the potential of ICT while prioritizing gender-responsive solutions, Africa can successfully adapt to climate change, empower its farming communities, foster sustainable development, unlock economic opportunities, provide access to vital information, and scale up adaptation efforts. Ultimately, technological innovation through ICT is critical to building climate resilience and securing a prosperous and sustainable future for Africa.
Topic:
Agriculture, Climate Change, Science and Technology, Communications, Innovation, and Adaptation
Political Geography:
Africa

99. Overcoming Barriers to Improve Antimicrobial Access, Innovation, and Stewardship in India

Author:
Parshuram Hotkar, Deepak Jena, Mohammed Abdul Rahman, Snigdha Das Sweety Shreyashi, and Javier Guzman
Publication Date:
07-2023
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
Center for Global Development (CGD)
Abstract:
India is racing against the clock in its fight against antimicrobial resistance. A combination of complex regulatory and procurement systems, a lack of health insurance penetration, and little groundwork on state and national action plans has stymied progress. A multi-fold approach is needed to improve access to, and innovation of next-generation antimicrobials and enhance stewardship practices. Improving access to the World Health Organization’s list of Watch and Reserve categories of antimicrobials through existing and new procurement channels, strengthening stewardship and diagnostic facilities in hospitals, and developing an environment conducive to antimicrobial research and development is key to achieving these goals.
Topic:
World Health Organization, Innovation, Public Health, Global Health, Healthcare System, and Antimicrobial Resistance
Political Geography:
South Asia and India

100. Ukrainian Innovation in a War of Attrition

Author:
Seth G. Jones, Riley McCabe, and Alexander Palmer
Publication Date:
02-2023
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS)
Abstract:
Russia suffered more combat deaths in Ukraine in the first year of the war than in all of its wars since World War II combined, according to a new CSIS analysis of the force disposition and military operations of Russian and Ukrainian units. The average rate of Russian soldiers killed per month is at least 25 times the number killed per month in Chechnya and 35 times the number killed in Afghanistan, which highlight the stark realities of a war of attrition. The Ukrainian military has also performed remarkably well against a much larger and initially better-equipped Russian military, in part due to the innovation of its forces.
Topic:
Defense Policy, NATO, Geopolitics, Innovation, Defense Industry, and Russia-Ukraine War
Political Geography:
Russia, Europe, Ukraine, and Eastern Europe