Moving beyond disruptive innovation: A review of disruption in sustainability transitions

Because of the urgency of accelerating transitions, we examine the emerging understanding of the concept of 'disruption' in the context of sustainability transition studies to critically assess its value, pitfalls and potentials. By conducting a qualitative systematic review of 47 articles, we analyse how disruption is seen in this literature and what is being disrupted. We identify four nontechnical dimensions of disruption, adding 'behaviour, practices and cultural models' to previously suggested dimensions, i.e., markets and business models, regulations and policy, and actors and networks. We summarise what the literature identifies as disruption in transitions and draw on other literatures (e.g. social practice theory and institutional theory) to elaborate the dimensions of disruption. We provide a new definition of disruption in sociotechnical transitions, with focus on both speed and magnitude of change. We end by highlighting the importance of disruptive practices and low-tech solutions alongside disruptive technologies and policies.

Automated summary

This study critically evaluates the concept of disruption in the context of sustainability transition studies, identifying technological and non-technological dimensions of disruption. A new definition focusing on speed and magnitude of change is provided, with an emphasis on the importance of disruptive practices and low-tech solutions alongside disruptive technologies and policies.