Department Environmental Social Sciences

Cirus

 

Cirus is the cluster for sustainability transitions research in infrastructure sectors. We focus on the geography of transitions and contribute towards understanding how transitions unfold across different geographical contexts. We analyse sector transitions in relation to green technologies (e.g. on-site wastewater treatment, water recycling, renewable energy technologies, etc.), focussing on local and global innovation dynamics, and where and why transitions occur.


Cirus researchers utilize social science perspectives mainly building on insights from innovation studies, transition studies, economic geography and institutional sociology. Based at a research institute with a strong focus on natural and engineering sciences, team members have actively contributed to several national and international inter- and transdisciplinary research projects. In a number of recent projects, Cirus researchers have worked on case studies in Europe, South Africa, China, Kenya, and the USA.

Focus areas

Industry dynamics and Sectoral Transformations

The group is analyzing potential processes of sustainability transitions in sectors like urban water management, electricity and transport and associated industry dynamics for radically new service options. Particular emphasis is on preconditions provided by particular regions and countries for pioneering these processes. more

Globalization and Transformations to Sustainable Development

The research group analyzes how transition dynamics in distant places get increasingly interconnected and whether and how they may be steered toward increased sustainability. more

Team

Group Leaders

Prof. Dr. Bernhard Truffer Department head, Cluster Cirus Tel. +41 58 765 5670 Send Mail
Dr. Christian Binz Group Leader, Cluster: Cirus Tel. +41 58 765 5030 Send Mail

Scientists / PostDocs

Dr. Xiao Shan Yap Scientist, Cluster Cirus Tel. +41 58 765 5420 Send Mail
Dr. Huiwen Gong Postdoctoral researcher Tel. +41 58 765 6744 Send Mail

PhD Students

Research assistants & guests

Stefan Vollenweider Guest Researcher, Cluster: Cirus Tel. +41 58 765 5427 Send Mail

Publications

2020

Binz, C., Gosens, J., Yap, X. S., & Yu, Z. (2020). Catch-up dynamics in early industry lifecycle stages - a typology and comparative case studies in four clean-tech industries. Industrial and Corporate Change, 29(5), 1257-1275. doi:10.1093/icc/dtaa020, Institutional Repository
Binz, C., Coenen, L., Murphy, J. T., & Truffer, B. (2020). Geographies of transition - from topical concerns to theoretical engagement: a commentary on the transitions research agenda. Environmental Innovation and Societal Transitions, 34, 1-3. doi:10.1016/j.eist.2019.11.002, Institutional Repository
Binz, C., & Truffer, B. (2020). The governance of global innovation systems: putting knowledge in context. In J. Glückler, G. Herrigel, & M. Handke (Eds.), Knowledge and space: Vol. 15. Knowledge for governance (pp. 397-414). doi:10.1007/978-3-030-47150-7_17, Institutional Repository
Cherunya, P. C., Ahlborg, H., & Truffer, B. (2020). Anchoring innovations in oscillating domestic spaces: why sanitation service offerings fail in informal settlements. Research Policy, 49(1), 103841 (16 pp.). doi:10.1016/j.respol.2019.103841, Institutional Repository
Gosens, J., Binz, C., & Lema, R. (2020). China's role in the next phase of the energy transition: contributions to global niche formation in the Concentrated Solar Power sector. Environmental Innovation and Societal Transitions, 34, 61-75. doi:10.1016/j.eist.2019.12.004, Institutional Repository
Heiberg, J., Binz, C., & Truffer, B. (2020). The Geography of technology legitimation: how multiscalar institutional dynamics matter for path creation in emerging industries. Economic Geography, 96(5), 470-498. doi:10.1080/00130095.2020.1842189, Institutional Repository
Hipp, A., & Binz, C. (2020). Firm survival in complex value chains and global innovation systems: evidence from solar photovoltaics. Research Policy, 49(1), 103876 (16 pp.). doi:10.1016/j.respol.2019.103876, Institutional Repository
Hoffmann, S., Feldmann, U., Bach, P. M., Binz, C., Farrelly, M., Frantzeskaki, N., … Udert, K. M. (2020). A research agenda for the future of urban water management: exploring the potential of non-grid, small-grid, and hybrid solutions. Environmental Science and Technology, 54(9), 5312-5322. doi:10.1021/acs.est.9b05222, Institutional Repository
Schippl, J., & Truffer, B. (2020). Directionality of transitions in space: diverging trajectories of electric mobility and autonomous driving in urban and rural settlement structures. Environmental Innovation and Societal Transitions, 37, 345-360. doi:10.1016/j.eist.2020.10.007, Institutional Repository
van Welie, M. J., Boon, W. P. C., & Truffer, B. (2020). Innovation system formation in international development cooperation: the role of intermediaries in urban sanitation. Science and Public Policy, 47(3), 333-347. doi:10.1093/scipol/scaa015, Institutional Repository

2019

Meelen, T.; Truffer, B.; Schwanen, T. (2019) Virtual user communities contributing to upscaling innovations in transitions: the case of electric vehicles, Environmental Innovation and Societal Transitions, 31, 96-109, doi:10.1016/j.eist.2019.01.002, Institutional Repository
Yap, X.-S.; Truffer, B. (2019) Shaping selection environments for industrial catch-up and sustainability transitions: a systemic perspective on endogenizing windows of opportunity, Research Policy, 48, 1030-1047, doi:10.1016/j.respol.2018.10.002, Institutional Repository
van Welie, M. J.; Truffer, B.; Gebauer, H. (2019) Innovation challenges of utilities in informal settlements: combining a capabilities and regime perspective, Environmental Innovation and Societal Transitions, 33, 84-101, doi:10.1016/j.eist.2019.03.006, Institutional Repository
van Welie, M. J.; Truffer, B.; Yap, X.-S. (2019) Towards sustainable urban basic services in low-income countries: a Technological Innovation System analysis of sanitation value chains in Nairobi, Environmental Innovation and Societal Transitions, 33, 196-214, doi:10.1016/j.eist.2019.06.002, Institutional Repository
Capasso, M.; Hansen, T.; Heiberg, J.; Klitkou, A.; Steen, M. (2019) Green growth – a synthesis of scientific findings, Technological Forecasting and Social Change, 146, 390-402, doi:10.1016/j.techfore.2019.06.013, Institutional Repository
Gebauer, H.; Binz, C. (2019) Regional benefits of servitization processes: evidence from the wind-to-energy industry, Regional Studies, 53(3), 366-375, doi:10.1080/00343404.2018.1479523, Institutional Repository
Hitziger, M.; Aragrande, M.; Berezowski, J. A.; Canali, M.; Del Rio Vilas, V.; Hoffmann, S.; Igrejas, G.; Keune, H.; Lux, A.; Bruce, M.; Palenberg, M. A.; Pohl, C.; Radeski, M.; Richter, I.; Robledo Abad, C.; Salerno, R. H.; Savic, S.; Schirmer, J.; Vogler, B. R.; Rüegg, S. R. (2019) EVOLvINC: evaluating knowledge integration capacity in multistakeholder governance, Ecology and Society, 24(2), 36 (16 pp.), doi:10.5751/ES-10935-240236, Institutional Repository
Hoffmann, S.; Thompson Klein, J.; Pohl, C. (2019) Linking transdisciplinary research projects with science and practice at large: introducing insights from knowledge utilization, Environmental Science and Policy, 102, 36-42, doi:10.1016/j.envsci.2019.08.011, Institutional Repository
Maurer, M.; Hoffmann, S. (2019) Sanierungsfall Abwassersystem, Volkswirtschaft, 89(6), 12-15, Institutional Repository
Stanstrup, J.; Broeckling, C.; Helmus, R.; Hoffmann, N.; Mathé, E.; Naake, T.; Nicolotti, L.; Peters, K.; Rainer, J.; Salek, R.; Schulze, T.; Schymanski, E.; Stravs, M.; Thévenot, E.; Treutler, H.; Weber, R.; Willighagen, E.; Witting, M.; Neumann, S. (2019) The metaRbolomics toolbox in bioconductor and beyond, Metabolites, 9(10), 200 (55 pp.), doi:10.3390/metabo9100200, Institutional Repository

2018

Binz, C.; Razavian, N. B.; Kiparsky, M. (2018) Of dreamliners and drinking water: developing risk regulation and a safety culture for direct potable reuse, Water Resources Management, 32(2), 511-525, doi:10.1007/s11269-017-1824-1, Institutional Repository
Binz, C.; Anadon, L. D. (2018) Unrelated diversification in latecomer contexts - the emergence of the Chinese solar photovoltaics industry, Environmental Innovation and Societal Transitions, 28, 14-34, doi:10.1016/j.eist.2018.03.005, Institutional Repository
Buijs, J.; Gebauer, H.; Otoo, M.; Evans, A. (2018) Fecal sludge for on-farm use (Bangalore Honey Suckers, India), In: Otoo, M.; Drechsel, P. (Eds.), Resource recovery from waste. Business models for energy, nutrient and water reuse in low- and middle-income countries, 508-515, Institutional Repository
Eggimann, S.; Truffer, B.; Feldmann, U.; Maurer, M. (2018) Screening European market potentials for small modular wastewater treatment systems – an inroad to sustainability transitions in urban water management?, Land Use Policy, 78, 711-725, doi:10.1016/j.landusepol.2018.07.031, Institutional Repository
Fuenfschilling, L.; Binz, C. (2018) Global socio-technical regimes, Research Policy, 47(4), 735-749, doi:10.1016/j.respol.2018.02.003, Institutional Repository
Gebauer, H.; Haldimann, M.; Saul, C. J. (2018) Capabilities for providing socially beneficial services to consumers in low-income markets, SMR: Journal of Service Management Research, 2(1), 16-27, doi:10.15358/2511-8676-2018-1-16, Institutional Repository
Gebauer, H.; Gebrezgabher, S. (2018) Power from swine manure for industry's internal use (Sadia, Concordia, Brazil), In: Otoo, M.; Drechsel, P. (Eds.), Resource recovery from waste. Business models for energy, nutrient and water reuse in low- and middle-income countries, 162-171, Institutional Repository
Gebauer, H.; Binz, C. (2019) Regional benefits of servitization processes: evidence from the wind-to-energy industry, Regional Studies, 53(3), 366-375, doi:10.1080/00343404.2018.1479523, Institutional Repository
Maag, S.; Alexander, T. J.; Kase, R.; Hoffmann, S. (2018) Indicators for measuring the contributions of individual knowledge brokers, Environmental Science and Policy, 89, 1-9, doi:10.1016/j.envsci.2018.06.002, Institutional Repository
Myhren, P.; Witell, L.; Gustafsson, A.; Gebauer, H. (2018) Incremental and radical open service innovation, Journal of Service Management, 32(2), 101-112, doi:10.1108/JSM-04-2016-0161, Institutional Repository
Jennings Saul, C.; Gebauer, H. (2018) Born solution providers – dynamic capabilities for providing solutions, Industrial Marketing Management, 73, 31-46, doi:10.1016/j.indmarman.2018.01.007, Institutional Repository
Saul, C. J.; Gebauer, H. (2018) Digital transformation as an enabler for advanced services in the sanitation sector, Sustainability, 10(3), 752 (18 pp.), doi:10.3390/su10030752, Institutional Repository
van Welie, M. J.; Cherunya, P. C.; Truffer, B.; Murphy, J. T. (2018) Analysing transition pathways in developing cities: the case of Nairobi's splintered sanitation regime, Technological Forecasting and Social Change, 137, 259-271, doi:10.1016/j.techfore.2018.07.059, Institutional Repository

2017

Hoffmann, S.; Pohl, C.; Hering, J. G. (2017) Methods and procedures of transdisciplinary knowledge integration: empirical insights from four thematic synthesis processes, Ecology and Society, 22(1), 27 (17 pp.), doi:10.5751/ES-08955-220127, Institutional Repository
Binz, C.; Truffer, B. (2017) Global innovation systems - a conceptual framework for innovation dynamics in transnational contexts, Research Policy, 46(7), 1284-1298, doi:10.1016/j.respol.2017.05.012, Institutional Repository
Gebauer, H.; Haldimann, M.; Saul, C. J. (2017) A typology for management innovations. Analyzing the actual state of art and conducting case study research, European Journal of Innovation Management, 20(4), 514-533, doi:10.1108/EJIM-06-2016-0059, Institutional Repository
Gebauer, H.; Haldimann, M.; Saul, C. J. (2017) Business model innovations for overcoming barriers in the base-of-the-pyramid market, Industry and Innovation, 24(5), 543-568, doi:10.1080/13662716.2017.1310033, Institutional Repository
Hoffmann, S.; Pohl, C.; Hering, J. G. (2017) Exploring transdisciplinary integration within a large research program: empirical lessons from four thematic synthesis processes, Research Policy, 46(3), 678-692, doi:10.1016/j.respol.2017.01.004, Institutional Repository
Gebauer, H.; Saul, C. J.; Haldimann, M.; Gustafsson, A. (2017) Organizational capabilities for pay-per-use services in product-oriented companies, International Journal of Production Economics, 192, 157-168, doi:10.1016/j.ijpe.2016.12.007, Institutional Repository
Gebauer, H.; Saul, C.; Haldimann, M.; Kramer, S. (2017) When one business model is not enough for a social business, Strategic Direction, 33(1), 10-12, doi:10.1108/SD-06-2016-0096, Institutional Repository
Kowalkowski, C.; Gebauer, H.; Oliva, R. (2017) Service growth in product firms: past, present, and future, Industrial Marketing Management, 60, 82-88, doi:10.1016/j.indmarman.2016.10.015, Institutional Repository
Kowalkowski, C.; Gebauer, H.; Kamp, B.; Parry, G. (2017) Servitization and deservitization: overview, concepts, and definitions, Industrial Marketing Management, 60, 4-10, doi:10.1016/j.indmarman.2016.12.007, Institutional Repository
Rabetino, R.; Kohtamäki, M.; Gebauer, H. (2017) Strategy map of servitization, International Journal of Production Economics, 192, 144-156, doi:10.1016/j.ijpe.2016.11.004, Institutional Repository
Tobias, R.; O'Keefe, M.; Künzle, R.; Gebauer, H.; Gründl, H.; Morgenroth, E.; Pronk, W.; Larsen, T. A. (2017) Early testing of new sanitation technology for urban slums: the case of the Blue Diversion Toilet, Science of the Total Environment, 576, 264-272, doi:10.1016/j.scitotenv.2016.10.057, Institutional Repository
Witell, L.; Gebauer, H.; Jaakkola, E.; Hammedi, W.; Patricio, L.; Perks, H. (2017) A bricolage perspective on service innovation, Journal of Business Research, 79, 290-298, doi:10.1016/j.jbusres.2017.03.021, Institutional Repository
Binz, C.; Truffer, B. (2017) Anchoring global networks in urban niches. How on-site water recycling emerged in three chinese cities, In: Frantzeskaki, N.; Castán Broto, V.; Coenen, L.; Loorbach, D. (Eds.), Urban Sustainability Transitions, 23-36, doi:10.4324/9781315228389, Institutional Repository
Boschma, R.; Coenen, L.; Frenken, K.; Truffer, B. (2017) Towards a theory of regional diversification: combining insights from evolutionary economic geography and transition studies, Regional Studies, 51(1), 31-45, doi:10.1080/00343404.2016.1258460, Institutional Repository
Pohl, C.; Truffer, B.; Hirsch Hadorn, G. (2017) Addressing wicked problems through transdisciplinary research, In: Frodeman, R.; Thompson Klein, J.; Pacheco, R. C. S. (Eds.), The Oxford handbook of interdisciplinarity, 319-331, doi:10.1093/oxfordhb/9780198733522.013.26, Institutional Repository
Truffer, B.; Schippl, J.; Fleischer, T. (2017) Decentering technology in technology assessment: prospects for socio-technical transitions in electric mobility in Germany, Technological Forecasting and Social Change, 122, 34-48, doi:10.1016/j.techfore.2017.04.020, Institutional Repository
Weber, K. M.; Truffer, B. (2017) Moving innovation systems research to the next level: towards an integrative agenda, Oxford Review of Economic Policy, 33(1), 101-121, doi:10.1093/oxrep/grx002, Institutional Repository
Binz, C.; Razavian, N. B.; Kiparsky, M. (2018) Of dreamliners and drinking water: developing risk regulation and a safety culture for direct potable reuse, Water Resources Management, 32(2), 511-525, doi:10.1007/s11269-017-1824-1, Institutional Repository
Binz, C.; Gosens, J.; Hansen, T.; Hansen, U. E. (2017) Toward technology-sensitive catching-up policies: insights from renewable energy in China, World Development, 96, 418-437, doi:10.1016/j.worlddev.2017.03.027, Institutional Repository

2016

Binz, C.; Truffer, B.; Coenen, L. (2016) Path creation as a process of resource alignment and anchoring: industry formation for on-site water recycling in Beijing, Economic Geography, 92(2), 172-200, doi:10.1080/00130095.2015.1103177, Institutional Repository
Binz, C.; Harris-Lovett, S.; Kiparsky, M.; Sedlak, D. L.; Truffer, B. (2016) The thorny road to technology legitimation — Institutional work for potable water reuse in California, Technological Forecasting and Social Change, 103, 249-263, doi:10.1016/j.techfore.2015.10.005, Institutional Repository
Eggimann, S.; Truffer, B.; Maurer, M. (2016) The cost of hybrid waste water systems: a systematic framework for specifying minimum cost-connection rates, Water Research, 103, 472-484, doi:10.1016/j.watres.2016.07.062, Institutional Repository
Fuenfschilling, L.; Truffer, B. (2016) The interplay of institutions, actors and technologies in socio-technical systems: an analysis of transformations in the Australian urban water sector, Technological Forecasting and Social Change, 103, 298-312, doi:10.1016/j.techfore.2015.11.023, Institutional Repository
Gebauer, H.; Haldimann, M.; Saul, C. (2016) Eine neue Strategie für Afrika, Harvard Business Manager, 9, 54-57, Institutional Repository
Gebauer, H.; Joncourt, S.; Saul, C. (2016) Services in product-oriented companies: past, present, and future, Universia Business Review, 2016(49), 32-53, Institutional Repository
Hoffmann, S. (2016) Transdisciplinary knowledge integration within large research programs, GAIA: Ecological Perspectives for Science and Society, 25(3), 201-203, doi:10.14512/gaia.25.3.14, Institutional Repository
Kiparsky, M.; Thompson Jr., B. H.; Binz, C.; Sedlak, D. L.; Tummers, L.; Truffer, B. (2016) Barriers to innovation in urban wastewater utilities: attitudes of managers in California, Environmental Management, 57(6), 1204-1216, doi:10.1007/s00267-016-0685-3, Institutional Repository
Larsen, T. A.; Hoffmann, S.; Lüthi, C.; Truffer, B.; Maurer, M. (2016) Emerging solutions to the water challenges of an urbanizing world, Science, 352(6288), 928-933, doi:10.1126/science.aad8641, Institutional Repository
Lieberherr, E.; Truffer, B.; Dominguez, D. (2016) Innovation and public management: Comparing dynamic capabilities in two swiss wastewater utilities, In: Finger, M.; Jaag, C. (Eds.), The Routledge Companion to Network Industries, 389-402, doi:10.4324/9781315768984, Institutional Repository
Markard, J.; Wirth, S.; Truffer, B. (2016) Institutional dynamics and technology legitimacy – a framework and a case study on biogas technology, Research Policy, 45(1), 330-344, doi:10.1016/j.respol.2015.10.009, Institutional Repository
Meierhofer, R.; Flückiger, A. C.; Gebauer, H. (2016) Do sales models influence the purchase and use of ceramic filters in rural areas of Kenya and Bolivia?, Journal of Water Supply: Research and Technology. Aqua, 65(1), 87-102, doi:10.2166/aqua.2015.069, Institutional Repository
Zinsstag, J.; Perrig-Chiello, P.; Paulsen, T.; Truffer, B. (2016) Exemplary Transdisciplinary Projects - swiss-academies award for transdisciplinary research 2015, GAIA: Ecological Perspectives for Science and Society, 25(3), 182-184, doi:10.14512/gaia.25.3.9, Institutional Repository
Eggimann, S.; Truffer, B.; Maurer, M. (2016) Economies of density for on-site waste water treatment, Water Research, 101, 476-489, doi:10.1016/j.watres.2016.06.011, Institutional Repository

2015

Eggimann, S.; Truffer, B.; Maurer, M. (2015) To connect or not to connect? Modelling the optimal degree of centralisation for wastewater infrastructures, Water Research, 84, 218-231, doi:10.1016/j.watres.2015.07.004, Institutional Repository
Gebauer, H.; Worch, H. (2015) Absorptive Capacity (of Organizations), In: Wright, J. D. (Eds.), International Encyclopedia of the Social and Behavioral Sciences, 12-19, doi:10.1016/B978-0-08-097086-8.73106-0, Institutional Repository
Harris-Lovett, S. R.; Binz, C.; Sedlak, D. L.; Kiparsky, M.; Truffer, B. (2015) Beyond user acceptance: a legitimacy framework for potable water reuse in California, Environmental Science and Technology, 49(13), 7552-7561, doi:10.1021/acs.est.5b00504, Institutional Repository
Kowalkowski, C.; Windahl, C.; Kindström, D.; Gebauer, H. (2015) What service transition? Rethinking established assumptions about manufacturers' service-led growth strategies, Industrial Marketing Management, 45, 59-69, doi:10.1016/j.indmarman.2015.02.016, Institutional Repository
Larsen, T. A.; Gebauer, H.; Gründl, H.; Künzle, R.; Lüthi, C.; Messmer, U.; Morgenroth, E.; Niwagaba, C. B.; Ranner, B. (2015) Blue Diversion: a new approach to sanitation in informal settlements, Journal of Water Sanitation and Hygiene for Development, 5(1), 64-71, doi:10.2166/washdev.2014.115, Institutional Repository
Lieberherr, E.; Truffer, B. (2015) The impact of privatization on sustainability transitions: a comparative analysis of dynamic capabilities in three water utilities, Environmental Innovation and Societal Transitions, 15, 101-122, doi:10.1016/j.eist.2013.12.002, Institutional Repository
Truffer, B.; Murphy, J. T.; Raven, R. (2015) The geography of sustainability transitions: contours of an emerging theme, Environmental Innovation and Societal Transitions, 17, 63-72, doi:10.1016/j.eist.2015.07.004, Institutional Repository

2014

Fuenfschilling, L.; Truffer, B. (2014) The structuration of socio-technical regimes - conceptual foundations from institutional theory, Research Policy, 43(4), 772-791, doi:10.1016/j.respol.2013.10.010, Institutional Repository
Binz, C.; Truffer, B.; Coenen, L. (2014) Why space matters in technological innovation systems-mapping global knowledge dynamics of membrane bioreactor technology, Research Policy, 43(1), 138-155, doi:10.1016/j.respol.2013.07.002, Institutional Repository
Gebauer, H.; Johnson, M.; Enquist, B. (2014) Service innovations for enhancing public transit services, In: Fuglsang, L.; Ronning, R.; Enquist, B. (Eds.), Framing innovation in public service sectors, 41-62, Institutional Repository
Gebauer, H.; Saul, C. J. (2014) Business model innovation in the water sector in developing countries, Science of the Total Environment, 488(1), 512-520, doi:10.1016/j.scitotenv.2014.02.046, Institutional Repository
Gebauer, H.; Saul, C. (2014) Eine bibliometrische Analyse des Forschungsstandes und der zukünftigen Forschungsfragen für die Transformation vom Produzenten zum Dienstleister, Unternehmung: Swiss Journal of Business Research and Practice, 68(4), 228-248, doi:10.5771/0042-059X-2014-4-229, Institutional Repository
Gebauer, H.; Worch, H.; Truffer, B. (2014) Value innovations in electricity utilities, In: Fuglsang, L.; Ronning, R.; Enquist, B. (Eds.), Framing innovation in public service sectors, 85-111, Institutional Repository
Meierhofer, R.; Flückiger, C.; Gebauer, H. (2014) Evaluating distribution strategies for ceramic filters in Kenya and Bolivia, Sandec News, 15, 22-23, Institutional Repository
Soltes, E.; Thakkar, A.; Survé, I.; Gebauer, H. (2014) Welcher Standort ist der beste?, Harvard Business Manager, 78-85, Institutional Repository
Tilley, E.; Strande, L.; Lüthi, C.; Mosler, H.-J.; Udert, K. M.; Gebauer, H.; Hering, J. G. (2014) Looking beyond technology: an integrated approach to water, sanitation and hygiene in low income countries, Environmental Science and Technology, 48(17), 9965-9970, doi:10.1021/es501645d, Institutional Repository
Truffer, B. (2014) Der Energiewandel als fundamentaler Umbruch im sozio-technischen System. La transition énergétique, mutation fondamentale du système sociotechnique, ProClim-Flash, 61, 1-3, Institutional Repository
Zinsstag, J.; Perrig-Chiello, P.; Paulsen, T.; Truffer, B. (2014) Best practice in transdisciplinary research – Swiss td-award winners 2013, GAIA: Ecological Perspectives for Science and Society, 23(3), 253-255, doi:10.14512/gaia.23.3.9, Institutional Repository

2013

Truffer, B.; Binz, C.; Gebauer, H.; Störmer, E. (2013) Market success of on-site treatment: a systemic innovation problem, In: Larsen, T. A.; Udert, K. M.; Lienert, J. (Eds.), Source Separation and Decentralization for Wastewater Management, 209-223, Institutional Repository
Treibich, T.; Konrad, K.; Truffer, B. (2013) A dynamic view on interactions between academic spin-offs and their parent organizations, Technovation, 33(12), 450-462, doi:10.1016/j.technovation.2013.06.012, Institutional Repository
Kiparsky, M.; Sedlak, D. L.; Thompson Jr., B. H.; Truffer, B. (2013) The innovation deficit in urban water: the need for an integrated perspective on institutions, organizations, and technology, Environmental Engineering Science, 30(8), 395-408, doi:10.1089/ees.2012.0427, Institutional Repository
Li, L.; Binz, C.; Lu, Y.; Truffer, B.; Shi, Y. (2013) Institutional trajectory for diffusing on-site wastewater treatment in urban China, Water Science and Technology, 68(5), 1180-1187, doi:10.2166/wst.2013.328, Institutional Repository
Wirth, S.; Markard, J.; Truffer, B.; Rohracher, H. (2013) Informal institutions matter: professional culture and the development of biogas technology, Environmental Innovation and Societal Transitions, 8, 20-41, doi:10.1016/j.eist.2013.06.002, Institutional Repository
Worch, H.; Truffer, B.; Kabinga, M.; Eberhard, A.; Markard, J. (2013) A capability perspective on performance deficiencies in utility firms, Utilities Policy, 25, 1-9, doi:10.1016/j.jup.2012.12.001, Institutional Repository
Gebauer, H.; Paiola, M.; Saccani, N. (2013) Characterizing service networks for moving from products to solutions, Industrial Marketing Management, 42(1), 31-46, doi:10.1016/j.indmarman.2012.11.002, Institutional Repository
Gebauer, H.; Reynoso, J. (2013) An agenda for service research at the base of the pyramid, Journal of Service Management, 24(5), 482-501, doi:10.1108/JOSM-04-2013-0090, Institutional Repository
Kowalkowski, C.; Kindström, D.; Gebauer, H. (2013) ICT as a catalyst for service business orientation, Journal of Business and Industrial Marketing, 28(6), 506-513, doi:10.1108/JBIM-04-2013-0096, Institutional Repository
Schöbitz, L.; Zurbrügg, C.; Gebauer, H.; Strande, L. (2013) Waste-based business models for resource recovery, Sandec News, 14, 6, Institutional Repository
Ulaga, W.; Estoquié, F.; Gebauer, H.; Grab, E.; März, S.; Soler, P.; van der Velden, H.; Renault, C. (2013) From product to service: navigating the transition, insights@imd, 26, 1-4, Institutional Repository

2012

Truffer, B.; Coenen, L. (2012) Environmental innovation and sustainability transitions in regional studies, Regional Studies, 46(1), 1-21, doi:10.1080/00343404.2012.646164, Institutional Repository
Markard, J.; Raven, R.; Truffer, B. (2012) Sustainability transitions: an emerging field of research and its prospects, Research Policy, 41(6), 955-967, doi:10.1016/j.respol.2012.02.013, Institutional Repository
Dewald, U.; Truffer, B. (2012) The local sources of market formation: explaining regional growth differentials in German photovoltaic markets, European Planning Studies, 20(3), 397-420, doi:10.1080/09654313.2012.651803, Institutional Repository
Worch, H.; Kabinga, M.; Eberhard, A.; Truffer, B. (2012) Strategic renewal and the change of capabilities in utility firms, European Business Review, 24(5), 444-464, doi:10.1108/09555341211254526, Institutional Repository
Worch, H.; Truffer, B.; Kabinga, M.; Markard, J.; Eberhard, A. (2012) Tackling the capability gap in utility firms: applying management research to infrastructure sectors, Institutional Repository
Binz, C.; Truffer, B.; Li, L.; Shi, Y.; Lu, Y. (2012) Conceptualizing leapfrogging with spatially coupled innovation systems: the case of onsite wastewater treatment in China, Technological Forecasting and Social Change, 79(1), 155-171, doi:10.1016/j.techfore.2011.08.016, Institutional Repository
Coenen, L.; Benneworth, P.; Truffer, B. (2012) Toward a spatial perspective on sustainability transitions, Research Policy, 41(6), 968-979, doi:10.1016/j.respol.2012.02.014, Institutional Repository
Dörner, N.; Fleisch, E.; Gassmann, O.; Gebauer, H. (2012) Dienstleistungsinnovation und -strategie aufeinander abstimmen, In: Walsh, G.; von Kortzfleisch, H. (Eds.), Management von Service Innovationen in Business-to-Business Märkten - Erfahrungen, Konzepte und Handlungsperspektiven, 33-52, Institutional Repository
Erlinghagen, S.; Markard, J. (2012) Smart grids and the transformation of the electricity sector: ICT firms as potential catalysts for sectoral change, Energy Policy, 51, 895-906, doi:10.1016/j.enpol.2012.09.045, Institutional Repository
Farla, J.; Markard, J.; Raven, R.; Coenen, L. (2012) Sustainability transitions in the making: a closer look at actors, strategies and resources, Technological Forecasting and Social Change, 79(6), 991-998, doi:10.1016/j.techfore.2012.02.001, Institutional Repository
Gebauer, H.; Ren, G.-J.; Valtakoski, A.; Reynoso, J. (2012) Service-driven manufacturing. Provision, evolution and financial impact of services in industrial firms, Journal of Service Management, 23(1), 120-136, doi:10.1108/09564231211209005, Institutional Repository
Gebauer, H.; Worch, H.; Truffer, B. (2012) Absorptive capacity, learning processes and combinative capabilities as determinants of strategic innovation, European Management Journal, 30(1), 57-73, doi:10.1016/j.emj.2011.10.004, Institutional Repository
Gebauer, H.; Truffer, B.; Binz, C.; Störmer, E. (2012) Capability perspective on business network formation. Empirical evidence from the wastewater treatment industry, European Business Review, 24(2), 169-190, doi:10.1108/09555341211204026, Institutional Repository
Konrad, K.; Markard, J.; Ruef, A.; Truffer, B. (2012) Strategic responses to fuel cell hype and disappointment, Technological Forecasting and Social Change, 79(6), 1084-1098, doi:10.1016/j.techfore.2011.09.008, Institutional Repository
Musiolik, J. (2012) Innovation system-building: on the role of actors, networks and resources. The case of stationary fuel cells in Germany, 162 p, Institutional Repository
Maurer, M.; Bufardi, A.; Tilley, E.; Zurbrügg, C.; Truffer, B. (2012) A compatibility-based procedure designed to generate potential sanitation system alternatives, Journal of Environmental Management, 104(Aug), 51-61, doi:10.1016/j.jenvman.2012.03.023, Institutional Repository
Musiolik, J.; Markard, J.; Hekkert, M. (2012) Networks and network resources in technological innovation systems: towards a conceptual framework for system building, Technological Forecasting and Social Change, 79(6), 1032-1048, doi:10.1016/j.techfore.2012.01.003, Institutional Repository
Paiola, M.; Gebauer, H.; Edvardsson, B. (2012) Service business development in small- to medium-sized equipment manufacturers, Journal of Business-to-Business Marketing, 19(1), 33-66, doi:10.1080/1051712X.2011.593023, Institutional Repository

2011

Markard, J.; Truffer, B. (2008) Technological innovation systems and the multi-level perspective: towards an integrated framework, Research Policy, 37(4), 596-615, doi:10.1016/j.respol.2008.01.004, Institutional Repository
Dewald, U.; Truffer, B. (2011) Market formation in technological innovation systems - diffusion of photovoltaic applications in Germany, Industry and Innovation, 18(3), 285-300, doi:10.1080/13662716.2011.561028, Institutional Repository
Dominguez, D.; Truffer, B.; Gujer, W. (2011) Tackling uncertainties in infrastructure sectors through strategic planning: the contribution of discursive approaches in the urban water sector, Water Policy, 13(3), 299-316, doi:10.2166/wp.2010.109, Institutional Repository
Dörner, N.; Gassmann, O.; Gebauer, H. (2011) Service innovation: why is it so difficult to accomplish?, Journal of Business Strategy, 32(3), 37-46, doi:10.1108/02756661111121983, Institutional Repository
Gebauer, H. (2011) Exploring the contribution of management innovation to the evolution of dynamic capabilities, Industrial Marketing Management, 40(8), 1238-1250, doi:10.1016/j.indmarman.2011.10.003, Institutional Repository
Gebauer, H.; Gustafsson, A.; Witell, L. (2011) Competitive advantage through service differentiation by manufacturing companies, Journal of Business Research, 64(12), 1270-1280, doi:10.1016/j.jbusres.2011.01.015, Institutional Repository
Gebauer, H.; Kucza, G.; Wang, C. (2011) Spare parts logistics for the Chinese market, Benchmarking, 18(6), 748-768, doi:10.1108/14635771111180680, Institutional Repository
Kucza, G.; Gebauer, H. (2011) Global approaches to the service business in manufacturing companies, Journal of Business and Industrial Marketing, 26(7), 472-483, doi:10.1108/08858621111162271, Institutional Repository
Lightfoot, H. W.; Gebauer, H. (2011) Exploring the alignment between service strategy and service innovation, Journal of Service Management, 22(5), 664-683, doi:10.1108/09564231111175004, Institutional Repository
van den Bergh, J. C. J. M.; Truffer, B.; Kallis, G. (2011) Environmental innovation and societal transitions: introduction and overview, Environmental Innovation and Societal Transitions, 1(1), 1-23, doi:10.1016/j.eist.2011.04.010, Institutional Repository

2010 and older

Gebauer, H.; Johnson, M.; Enquist, B. (2010) Value co-creation as a determinant of success in public transport services. A study of the Swiss Federal Railway operator (SBB), Managing Service Quality, 20(6), 511-530, doi:10.1108/09604521011092866, Institutional Repository
Störmer, E.; Binz, C.; Truffer, B. (2010) Globale Herausforderung für die Siedlungswasserwirtschaft. Ein Roadmapping für dezentrale Wassertechnologien im Jahr 2020, Technikfolgenabschätzung: Theorie und Praxis, 19(1), 40-48, Institutional Repository
Truffer, B. (2010) Integrated environmental management of hydropower operation under conditions of market liberalization, In: Bundi, U. (Eds.), Alpine waters, 227-234, doi:10.1007/978-3-540-88275-6_11, Institutional Repository
Truffer, B.; Störmer, E.; Maurer, M.; Ruef, A. (2010) Local strategic planning processes and sustainability transitions in infrastructure sectors, Environmental Policy and Governance, 20(4), 258-269, doi:10.1002/eet.550, Institutional Repository
Dominguez, D.; Truffer, B. (2009) Abwasserwirtschaft – Strategische Planung, GWA Gas, Wasser, Abwasser, 89(9), 727-734, Institutional Repository
Dominguez, D.; Worch, H.; Markard, J.; Truffer, B.; Gujer, W. (2009) Closing the capability gap: strategic planning for the infrastructure sector, California Management Review, 51(2), 30-50, doi:10.2307/41166479, Institutional Repository
Störmer, E.; Truffer, B. (2009) Strategic decision making in infrastructure sectors. Participatory foresight and strategic planning for sustainable sanitation, Geographica Helvetica, 64(2), 73-80, doi:10.5194/gh-64-73-2009, Institutional Repository
Markard, J.; Stadelmann, M.; Truffer, B. (2009) Prospective analysis of technological innovation systems: identifying technological and organizational development options for biogas in Switzerland, Research Policy, 38(4), 655-667, doi:10.1016/j.respol.2009.01.013, Institutional Repository
Störmer, E.; Truffer, B.; Dominguez, D.; Gujer, W.; Herlyn, A.; Hiessl, H.; Kastenholz, H.; Klinke, A.; Markard, J.; Maurer, M.; Ruef, A. (2009) The exploratory analysis of trade-offs in strategic planning: lessons from regional infrastructure foresight, Technological Forecasting and Social Change, 76(9), 1150-1162, doi:10.1016/j.techfore.2009.07.008, Institutional Repository
Zurbrügg, C.; Bufardi, A.; Tilley, E.; Maurer, M.; Truffer, B. (2009) Decision-making for sanitation systems, Sandec News, 10, 20-21, Institutional Repository
Koch, S.; Truffer, B.; Urban, W. (2008) Reflexive engineering – how rainwater infiltration could have become and became an innovation, In: Fink, F. K. (Eds.), Quality assessment employability and innovation. 36th SEFI annual conference, (9 pp.), Institutional Repository
Konrad, K.; Truffer, B.; Voß, J.-P. (2008) Multi-regime dynamics in the analysis of sectoral transformation potentials: evidence from German utility sectors, Journal of Cleaner Production, 16(11), 1190-1202, doi:10.1016/j.jclepro.2007.08.014, Institutional Repository
Konrad, K.; Voß, J.-P.; Truffer, B. (2008) Sustainable transformation of German utilities 2025, In: Giesecke, S.; Crehan, P.; Elkins, S. (Eds.), The European Foresight Monitoring Network. Collection of EFMN Briefs - Part 1, 135-138, doi:10.2777/17436, Institutional Repository
Markard, J.; Truffer, B. (2008) Technological innovation systems and the multi-level perspective: towards an integrated framework, Research Policy, 37(4), 596-615, doi:10.1016/j.respol.2008.01.004, Institutional Repository
Markard, J.; Truffer, B. (2008) Actor-oriented analysis of innovation systems: exploring micro-meso level linkages in the case of stationary fuel cells, Technology Analysis and Strategic Management, 20(4), 443-464, doi:10.1080/09537320802141429, Institutional Repository
Störmer, E.; Dominguez, D.; Maurer, M.; Ruef, A.; Truffer, B. (2008) Nachhaltige Planungen zur Erneuerung der Siedlungswasserwirtschaft in der Schweiz, (5 pp.), Institutional Repository

See a list of all ESS publications

Current Projects

We seek to understand how formal and informal institutions, planning procedures and resources drive or constrain informal settlements upgrading in Sub Saharan Africa cities.
An inter- and transdisciplinary strategic research program that strives to develop novel non-gridconnected water and sani- tation systems that can function as comparable alternatives to network-based systems.
The BARRIERS project aims at improving our understanding of the institutional barriers for radical innovation in UWM. It analyzes ‘lighthouse cities’ that experiment with non-grid UWM systems
We are identifying the challenges of modular infrastructure systems for the Swiss economy and society using the example of urban water management.
GLORIWA assesses path dependencies in urban water management by analyzing the global actor structures and institutional rationalities that stabilize the current dominant design
RADEC seeks to unravel how emerging countries can simultaneously achieve industrial leapfrogging and environmental sustainability transition by analyzing the industrial and socio-technical aspects of decentralized water and sanitation systems in China, India and South Africa.
The Lighthouse Project focuses on visible examples of onsite and decentralised urban water management systems, which will play a key role in enabling sustainability transitions.

Past projects

The proposal analyzes possible transition pathways in basic services, focusing specifically on the case of Nairobi, Kenya.
The project promotes the implementaion of RRR business models in Lima, Peru by improving the local institutional framework and technical capacities of interested entrepreneurs.
The purpose of the strategic research alliance is to analyse the nature of the energy innovation systems in Denmark.
The project will analyze the indicators for sustainable transitions in China water treatment industry.
In this project, we apply Business Model Thinking to create promising business models around innovative water and sanitation technologies
In this project, we collaborate with various organizations to study the role of business innovation in the scaling process of sanitation services.
In this project, we work with organizations from around the globe to identify factors for managing water kiosks sucessfully