Innovation, Appropriate Technologies and Entrepreneurship for Global Sustainability Development: A Review Until the Early Twenty-first Century

Abstract

Appropriate technology and development have been disseminated globally as a concept and practice under various terminologies such as adaptive technology, accessible and cheap technology, community technology, low-cost technology, intermediary technology, and so on, especially for grassroots community development. Originating from Gandhi’s anti-colonial campaigns and further expanded by Schumacher’s ideas, the concept gained momentum with the rise of emerging economies such as Brazil, China, India and South Africa. These countries embraced appropriate technology, offering affordable, user-friendly solutions that matched local needs and resources, contrasting with capital-intensive methods. The digital revolution in the twenty-first century further diversified appropriate technology, permitting the widespread adoption of affordable and sustainable solutions across sectors and nations. This study also explores how emerging economies transitioned from being viewed as low-tech suppliers to becoming innovators in high-tech spheres. These emerging economies have developed localised research and development centres, embraced open science and technology collaboration and engaged in reverse technology entrepreneurship by adapting and exporting technology-driven products to developing and developed countries. Furthermore, frugal innovation arises as a response to pressing sustainability challenges. It encourages simple, environmentally friendly designs that promote longevity and efficient resource practice. From its very beginnings and even more today, innovation in appropriate/frugal technologies has continued to make clear contributions to various forms of entrepreneurship for sustainable development. The study concludes that proper technology and frugal innovation are becoming global norms, endorsed by G7, G20 and United Nations member states, as they address economic and sustainable development goals, ultimately benefitting a broader spectrum of societies globally.