Abstract:

The aim of this paper is to analyse, describe and discuss the processes contributing to the development of product eco-innovations in companies-suppliers of environmentally sound technologies (ETSs) in Poland based on Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) model. The key research question in this paper is: How do companies-suppliers of ESTs develop product eco-innovations? The paper is based on empirical data gathered through qualitative research techniques: in-depth, semi-standardized and semi-structured interviews. The research results allowed to identify and describe two main scenarios of developing eco-innovations in Polish EST companies. First, to use the idea of an innovator, and then develop it personally or with the help of specialists from previously existing company or research institution (this path was usually followed). Second, to set up a company specifically to create a new product. Common to both scenarios of creating eco-innovations are: the variety of knowledge areas necessary to create new technologies, the importance of knowledge, experience and competences of actors involved in the process of creating innovations, and the need to conduct research and development activities, cooperation between the entrepreneurs and users aimed at improving offered technologies and adjusting them to market needs. The detailed process of developing product eco-innovations was described based on TRL model. In case of Polish companies some phases TRL3 and TRL4, as well as TRL5 and TRL6 overlap, whereas TRL7 was not performed at all.