Bridging the Gap: A Comparative Study of Green Innovations and Collaborative Networks in European Lagging Behind and Knowledge Intensive Regions

This study investigates the role of green innovation in facilitating interactions between the core and periphery regions within the European Union. Drawing upon the core-periphery model, which explains the unequal distribution of innovation capabilities and outcomes across regions resulting in a technological gap, this thesis critically examines relevant literature on the innovation gap, its drivers, and EU policies addressing it. Additionally, the study conceptualizes green innovation as an environmentally conscious form of innovation that promotes collaboration. It argues that green innovation can serve as a link between the core and periphery regions by promoting knowledge transfer and collaborative efforts. To validate this contention, patent data from OECD REGPAT database are employed as indicators of green innovation and regions interactions. Descriptive statistics and case studies are used to contextualize and analyze data to draw implications and findings. Significantly, this research contributes to the existing body of literature on regional innovation and green innovation domains, while offering policy recommendations aimed at bolstering the cohesion and competitiveness within the EU. ​