Open innovation and environmental sustainability–A systematic literature review from the firm-level perspective

This study presents the results of a systematic literature review of research on open and environmentally sustainable innovation (OESI) from the firm-level perspective. The main aims were to synthesize and aggregate findings of the existing body of literature on OESI, identify research gaps, and set directions for future studies in this field. Based on a content analysis of 324 papers, we identified the drivers and barriers to OESI development and implementation, and indicated models of OESI. Additionally, we emphasized the specificity of external knowledge sourcing and the integration of external and internal knowledge in OESI development. Furthermore, a comprehensive analysis of the effects of OESI, along with an overview of the mediating and moderating mechanisms affecting relationships between OESI antecedents, performance, and effects was presented. Our findings provide valuable insights and demonstrate to both academics and practitioners how to facilitate efficient implementation and development of OESI within specific contextual settings. • An in-depth content analysis of 324 publications on open and environmentally sustainable innovation (OESI) was conducted. • The drivers, barriers, and models of OESI development and implementation were identified. • The importance of external knowledge sourcing in OESI development was highlighted. • OESI effects and the mediating/moderating mechanisms linking OESI antecedents, performance, and outcomes were characterized. • The findings provide valuable insights and demonstrate ways to facilitate efficient implementation and development of OESI.