Eco-innovation and driving forces in Taiwan

Eco-innovation that focuses more on reducing environmental impact has gotten more attention recently. Government plays important role in fostering eco-innovation by using policy instruments. For example, Taiwan has legislated or seriously considered regulations that encourage resource recycling, environmental labeling, renewable energy, Carbon tax and green procurement. This paper discusses details of regulatory and market driving forces for eco-innovation in Taiwan. Several cases of eco-innovation are included to explain both intended and unintended effects of the two drivers. An imaginary break point between regulatory driven stage and market driven stage is proposed using S-curve theory to explain transition of the two driving forces for some eco-innovation. Also, a figure is proposed to show relative position of certain eco-innovation that under effects of the two major driving forces.