The local agenda 21 in Andalusia, Spain: A model for sustainable innovation

This study proposes an integrative model that includes a set of variables that define and influence an innovation process. This model suggest that, both organizational and institutional factors, affects the innovation process. The innovation under study is the implementation of a sustainable practice, the Local Agenda 21 (LA21), by the local councils in Andalusia, Spain. Since 2002, the City 21 program encourages these organizations adopting a LA21. The paper proposes, through thirteen case studies, nine propositions that show how empowerment, receptiveness to the change, climate of implementation, support for the implementation, culture organizational, institutional pressures, communication and coordination and participation of stakeholders are relevant factors that affect this innovation process.