Innovative models and partnership contribution for sustainable economic growth

Abstract

Unlocking the potential of New Zealand’s knowledge base, its people and diverse resources will be vital in realising socio-economic and environmental benefits for Aotearoa, New Zealand. This small nation has the potential to be a world-class leader in industries that use niche technologies and leverage partnerships. Some leading New Zealand firms are already championing this cause through their membership of the Climate Leaders Coalition (CLC), promoting business leadership and collective action on climate change. The synergistic model employs partnership contribution to propel growth, using knowledge, people and resources in a future-directed approach for industries facing strategic challenges in an environment of disequilibrium. This position paper draws on a desktop review of literature, organisational and media reports, and national data to show how some members of the CLC are leading action in emissions mitigation and sustainability. The findings evidence the many ways organisations can leverage partnerships and innovation to align with signals from government and industry, even in some of the most challenging contexts. The paper concludes with an example from the construction industry, with clear implications for our future combined tertiary education organisation, and its mandate to create a vocational education system that is geared for the needs of the future.