A classification of eco-innovators: Insights from the Slovak forestry service sector

In the current economy, considerable attention is being paid towards the environmental aspect of carrying out activities in the forest. Therefore, eco-innovation implementation can be considered as a basic and crucial condition for the success and competitiveness of businesses. The aim of this study was to identify and classify the different types of eco-innovators in the Slovak forestry service sector according to their innovative behaviour, with emphasis on the contractors' environmental awareness. At the same time, the study focused on a better understanding of the factors influencing implementation of eco-innovations in the Slovak forestry service sector. Methodologically, it is based on the analysis of quantitative data collected through a questionnaire method from a representative sample of 204 contractors. To analyse the data, the statistical program R was used. Subsequently, based on factors influencing innovation behaviour and eco-innovation implementation, two basic categories: (1) eco-adopters and (2) non eco-adopters, as well as eight subcategories of eco-adopters, were identified and characterised. The most important factors affecting eco-innovation implementation are associated with availability of financial sources and information about innovations, forestry consultancy, cooperation with other actors, as well as laws and regulations. However, one of the most important aspect is the environmental awareness of the company. Eco-adopters with stronger environmental awareness invest more in eco-innovations. On the other hand, there are passive (non) eco-adopters that need to gain necessary knowledge and be pushed to eco-innovation implementation from the outside environment. In conclusion, the study outlines possible policy recommendations for improving the eco-innovation activities within the Slovak forestry service sector.

Automated summary

This study identifies and classifies different types of eco-innovators in the Slovak forestry service sector based on their innovative behavior and environmental awareness, while also exploring factors influencing eco-innovation implementation. The availability of financial sources, information about innovations, forestry consultancy, cooperation with other actors, and laws and regulations were found to be important factors affecting eco-innovation implementation. Companies with stronger environmental awareness tend to invest more in eco-innovations, while passive non-adopters may need external push towards eco-innovation implementation. Policy recommendations for enhancing eco-innovation activities in the Slovak forestry service sector are outlined in the study.