Eco-Innovation as a Competitive Advantage in SMEs

Abstract

Recent scholarship increasingly positions eco-innovation as a driver of competitive edge for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises. This article surveys the environmental advances-new products, revised processes, novel governance structures-that literature has tied to improved market visibility, cost trimming, and brand credibility. A systematic review of contributions from 2000 through early 2021 guides the analysis and helps build a framework for gauging eco-innovations punch. Preliminary estimates indicate that SMEs, even while managing modest resources, exploit these green upgrades to carve out distinctive identities, enter specialty markets, and meet regulatory thresholds. Collectively, the findings frame environmental invention not as an optional extra but as a crucial route to growth and durability in the sector.