From industrial territory to sustainable or “green” industrial district? The case of an industrial district’s evolution in Normandy

• Published in: Competitiveness review 2024-10, Vol.34 (5), p.959-980
• Main Authors: Camille, Brou, Nadou, Fabien
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Business administration; Circular economy; Economic growth; GDP; Gross Domestic Product; Humanities and Social Sciences; Manufacturers; Specialization; Sustainability
• ISSN: 1059-5422; 1059-5422; 2051-3143
• DOI: 10.1108/CR-07-2023-0172

Purpose Through participant observation, this paper aims to show how the existing ecosystem has helped to attract new companies that are integrating and enriching this ecosystem, while helping to decarbonize the region’s industry. Design/methodology/approach In France, industrial and carbon-intensive regions are currently facing the challenges of environmental, energy and digital transition. Against a backdrop of reindustrialization, and to meet the objectives set by the French climate and resilience law, these regions are seeking both to support the existing ecosystem in meeting these new challenges and to diversify their economic fabric by welcoming greener industries. Findings In Normandy, in the Caux Seine agglo area, new projects linked to bioplastics have led the region to reflect on the creation and structuring of a greener industrial district bringing together manufacturers, a research cluster and a training center. Originality/value The authors are studying an industrial region in Normandy that is considered to be a pilot area, experimenting with new directions in terms of low-carbon industry. Based on the petrochemical industry, this little-studied area wants the industrial zone to become a genuine green energy hub. Strong political will and substantial private and public investment have enabled the emergence of a new green chemistry industry.