Upgrading Environmental Innovation for the 21st Century
Sanjana Paul & Camille Minns
Abstract
Who gets to be an innovator, and who gets to decide what innovation is? This essay examines the current paradigm of environmental innovation, focusing on the philosophy of climate tech development, the intersection of justice and environmental innovation, and challenges the existing dynamics of who "innovates" and who bears the costs. We advocate for a cultural shift, where the inclusion of justice in environmental innovation is standard, not exceptional. The necessity of justice in environmental innovation is underscored, moving beyond viewing it as an 'nice to have' feature in 'tech for good' projects. Instead, the essay posits that our current technology development paradigm may be inherently flawed, operating as 'tech for bad', necessitating a fundamental reevaluation of our innovation processes and priorities. We argue that we need a redefined approach to environmental innovation, one that is inclusive, equitable, and justice-oriented, challenging the status quo and reshaping how we view technological progress in relation to environmental challenges.