About Leading Sustainable Innovation
Leading Sustainable Innovation shows how to deliver eco-innovation within technical environments. It is tailored to support innovation leaders and managers in fields such as transport, engineering, infrastructure, energy, utilities and sciences.
This book offers practical methodologies, tools, frameworks and actionable steps that readers can implement to create lasting sustainable change for their projects and programs. Through following a step-by-step process, readers will craft a comprehensive roadmap for sustainable innovation, customized for any team or organization. It is aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Leading Sustainable Innovation examines multiple drivers of sustainable innovation, such as innovation strategies, state-of-the-art technologies, circular solutions and organizational factors necessary for success. It emphasizes distinguishing good ideas from weak ones and provides guidance on building a sustainable innovation culture. It features real-world, global examples and case studies such as the Microsoft Sustainable Datacenters (global), the Sellafield Nuclear Power Station Decommissioning (UK), Wunsiedel (Germany), Clean Path (New York), Roads and Transport Authority (Dubai) and Agriphotovoltaic Assets (China), enabling readers to learn valuable lessons from adjacent industries.
Praise for Leading Sustainable Innovation
“In a world where sustainability is no longer optional, Leading Sustainable Innovation is a vital resource for forward-thinking leaders. Clear, concise and directly actionable, this book will help shape the future of complex, technical sustainable innovation projects, bridging the gap between theory and practice.” ― Lucy Armstrong, CEO, The Alchemists and Chair, Port of Tyne
“This book is a breakthrough. No buzzwords, not a wasted word or paragraph. Jo North’s book provides accessible, smart, practical and structured advice. Not just on what sustainable innovation is, and importantly how to do it, but inspirational and accessible information for leaders and those who aspire to leadership on why successful sustainable innovation is critical for them and for the health and future of our planet.” ― Dr Joanna Berry, Associate Dean for Engagement, Durham University Business School and Director for Business, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Durham Energy Institute
“A brilliantly well researched and practical step-by-step guide on how to innovate whilst holding true to your values. Jo North peppers the theory with relatable examples which will inspire leaders from all sectors to address their challenges head-on and with sustainability at the core.” ― Heidi Mottram CBE, CEO, Northumbrian Water Group
“This will be an invaluable guide for anyone working in infrastructure, construction or the wider industry who is navigating the challenges of leading sustainable innovation. With invaluable insights, toolkits, checklists and case studies, it provides both the theory and the action.” ― Julia Prescot, Co-Founder, Meridiam; Deputy Chair, NIC and Port of Tyne; Chair, Neuconnect and Fulcrum Infrastructure Group; Honorary Professor, The Bartlett School of Sustainable Construction UCL
“This is a must-read for anyone passionate about merging innovation with environmental and economic responsibility. Jo North offers practical strategies and inspiring case studies that bring her approaches to life and demonstrate how businesses can thrive while prioritising sustainability. Her expertise and forward-thinking approach make this book an invaluable resource for leaders who want to grow their business and innovate their assets in a sustainable way that delivers societal and environmental benefits.” ― Amanda Selvaratnam, Associate Director of Research and Enterprise and Head of Enterprise Services, University of York
“Leading sustainable technical innovation is a tough and complex business. This wonderful book demystifies, simplifies and inspires.” ― Patrick Dunne, Chair, Boardelta, and Chair, Royal Voluntary Service
“A one-stop shop for business leaders in how to become a sustainable business. Transformative and inspiring. Essential for leaders of technical programs driving impactful change in today’s challenging business environment.” ― Joe Lavan, Commercial Director, Coffey Group
“This book offers practical methodologies, tools and a clear roadmap for business leaders to achieve lasting change in their projects and programmes. Essential reading for technical professionals and leaders alike, it empowers them with the knowledge and confidence to identify, drive and embed sustainable growth and resilience in an ever-evolving global landscape.” ― Dr Maxine Mayhew, Chief Operating Officer – Collections & Specialist Services, Biffa
“This book very clearly explains the importance of sustainable innovation and provides a clear roadmap for implementing sustainable innovation projects in complex technical environments. It provides a great insight into all building blocks and key ingredients in creating a sustainable ecosystem and how to manage innovation. Critical for students, academics and researchers who aspire to take a leadership role in sustainable innovation.” ― Prof. Tony Roskilly, Director, Durham Energy Institute; Director, UK National Clean Maritime Research Hub; Chair of Energy Systems, Dept of Engineering, Univ. of Durham
“There is a lot written and said on concepts like green business models, whole life cycles, and the circular economy. This book shows managers and practitioners how to implement these and how to understand them in their own industries, through a plethora of practical frameworks, tools for thought and measurement and checklists that build into a road map toward sustainable innovation.” ― Professor Jonathan Sapsed, Chair of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Newcastle University Business School
About the Author
Jo North is an expert on sustainable innovation within technical industries, with experience spanning sectors such as transport, manufacturing, engineering, infrastructure, energy, utilities, nuclear science and oil and gas. She is the Founder and CEO of The Big Bang Partnership Ltd, where she guides businesses in driving sustainable growth and capitalizing on the unique challenges and opportunities of sustainable innovation in complex STEM industries. North also founded and leads the UK’s inaugural Maritime Innovation Hub, transforming eco-friendly ports and supply chains and setting new benchmarks for clean energy, social impact, and economic growth. North is also an Associate Lecturer in Business Innovation and Creativity at the University of York.
She has worked with organizations such as Sage, Microsoft, Aviva, National Nuclear Laboratory, Transport for London and Transdev. As part of her work, North has facilitated sustainable innovation road mapping for international oil and gas companies, worked on 25 year environment and sustainability strategies for water companies and collaborated with energy and waste-to-energy companies on their innovation plans. She has also previously held directorship roles at Northern Rail and East Coast trains. She is based near Newcastle, the UK.
