Green global value chains and innovation systems: pathways for upgrading and just transitions in developing economies

Innovation and Development invites contributions to a special issue that aims to advance scholarly and policy debates on how green global value chains, energy transitions, and innovation systems interact to create pathways for sustainable upgrading and inclusive development in developing economies.

Innovation and Development invites submissions for the Special Issue “Green Global Value Chains and Innovation Systems: Pathways for Upgrading and Just Transitions in Developing Economies.” The call examines how the global transition toward low-carbon production is reshaping industrial development, technological capabilities and participation in global production networks, particularly in developing economies. Taylor & Francis Online

The Special Issue seeks theoretical, empirical and policy-oriented contributions exploring the interaction between green global value chains, energy transitions and innovation systems. Particular attention is given to the ways firms, institutions and governments can build capabilities for green innovation, technological learning and sustainable industrial upgrading while ensuring socially inclusive and just transitions. Taylor & Francis Online

Suggested topics include environmental upgrading in global value chains, green industrialization, renewable-energy technologies, circular economy practices, innovation systems for low-carbon development, technology diffusion, digitalization and Industry 4.0, SME participation in green value chains, workforce transformation, gender and social inclusion, sustainability standards, industrial policy and international cooperation. Sectoral studies on renewable energy, batteries, critical minerals, automotive electrification and green mobility are also welcomed. Taylor & Francis Online

Manuscripts should be 7,000–10,000 words, including references, with an abstract of 200–250 words and 4–6 keywords. Papers should be submitted through the Innovation and Development online submission system and authors should select the corresponding Special Issue during submission. Taylor & Francis Online

Deadline: 30 December 2026
First review decisions: 31 January 2027
Revised manuscripts due: 28 February 2027
Expected publication: June 2027 Taylor & Francis Online

Special Issue Editors:
Dr Maruf Sanni — National Centre for Technology Management (NACETEM)
Dr Ann Kingiri — African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS)
Dr Babatunde A. Aodu — National Centre for Technology Management (NACETEM) Taylor & Francis Online

Journal: Innovation and Development
Publisher: Taylor & Francis / Routledge
Location: Online / International Call for Papers