Technological Transitions and Critical Raw Materials.

Welcome to a Centre for Innovation Research seminar:

• Date: Thursday February 6^th
• Time: 12:00 - 13:00
• Room: UiS Campus Ullandhaug, Elise Ottesen-Jensens hus, room EOJ 276/277 and on Teams

Link to Teams meeting, Meeting-ID: 339 975 726 512, Password: Nd2Bx6q5

• Seminar speaker: Professor of Applied Economics, Simona Iammarino, University of Cagliari and LSE

• Title of the presentation: Technological Transitions and Critical Raw Materials

Abstract:

Critical Raw Materials (CRMs), such as rare metals and rare earth elements, are essential inputs in the current technological and industrial transformation, working as a (for now) irreplaceable material basis for technological innovations enabling the dual (digital and green) transition. In recent research, revisiting the role of natural resources in technological shifts, we proposed the notion of material-based technological regime underlying innovation in some specific industries, arguing that the dual transition can also be viewed as a material-based paradigm shift.

At the same time, global CRM supply and value chains are subject to significant geopolitical risks and vulnerability, which affect firms’ advantages and strategies, and places’ development opportunities. Drawing on the Multinational Enterprises’ (MNEs) technological accumulation and competence theory, and using micro-data obtained by merging patent data and firm-level information through ORBIS IP, we first shed preliminary light on the relevance of CRMs in shaping MNE technological and internationalisation strategies. The lecture concludes by emphasising the urgency of factoring in geographical and spatial equity when discussing the role of natural resources critical to the dual technological transition, drawing implications for current European Union policies.