Constraint‐Driven Frugal Innovations Powering Sustainability: An Experience From the Solar Boat Industry

ABSTRACT

The transportation sector contributes over 25% of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions resulting from the use of fossil fuels. GHGs are one of the primary causes adversely affecting all three pillars of sustainable development. This rapid degradation has led to an urgent call to embrace “responsible transportation.” Responsible transportation advocates the speedy transition to alternative eco‐friendly modes of transportation and the use of renewable fuel sources—solar or electric power. The present paper aims to contribute toward this goal of responsible transportation by studying the case of Aditya , a unique solar‐powered boat grounded on the principles of frugal innovation, specifically advanced frugal innovation (AFI). This study reviews the development of the solar boat through the multiple perspectives of resource dependence and constraints theories. Our findings reflect the application of frugal innovation principles in the development of this affordable boat, despite the severe resource and institutional constraints. Further, the study highlights the positive impact of this mode of transportation on the three pillars of sustainable development and the appropriate UN SDGs.