Some organizations are learning how to stimulate innovation and are setting focused targets that measure progress and assure the link between their own values and those of their customers. But there is much more to be done and important lessons to be learned and applied, especially to obtain innovation that addresses the social pillar of sustainable development.

There are many ways in which other stakeholders can assist these efforts. For example, governments can design regulatory frameworks that set the direction, encourage and reward the experimentation that fosters innovation and improves sustainability. However, is it all about regulatory aspects? I have always wondered what the role of governments ideally should be, dictating, facilitating or something else. Any ideas?