Conceptualizing "SPES" policy mix(es) for just twin transitions: Policy mapping on Science, Technology, and Innovation initiatives in Europe and other countries

The recent policy debates have increasingly centred around the green and digital transitions, aiming to address the dual challenges of environmental sustainability and technological advancement. The green transition focuses on sustainable practices and climate change mitigation, and the digital transition aims to harness technology for societal benefit, albeit with associated risks such as inequality and security concerns. The European Green Deal represents a strategic initiative to integrate these transitions, targeting a climate-neutral EU by 2050 and coupling economic growth with environmental stewardship.

This report examines policies related to science, technology, and innovation (STI) from the EC-OECD STIP Compass dataset. The focus is on the European Union and its member states but extends to non-European countries where possible. It highlights the emergence of diverse policy mixes that blend innovation with environmental and social sustainability goals, reflecting varying national commitments to sustainability transitions. The analysis leverages the Science, Technology, and Innovation Policy (STIP) Compass database, co-managed by the European Commission and the OECD, which documents STIP interventions aimed at achieving a net-zero transition.

Utilizing the SPES framework, which aligns the 2030 Agenda's goals with Sustainable Human Development (SHD) principles, the report adopts an integrated approach to assess these policies. It emphasizes the importance of balancing human activities with social inclusion and environmental preservation, advocating for multi-sectoral cooperation and ecological awareness.