The Missing Link in the Energy Transition Era: A Conceptual Framework for Environmental Innovation in the Upstream Oil and Gas Sector

Articles in Press

Document Type : Original research

Authors

1 Doctoral student of science and technology policy, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran

2 Professor, Department of Information Technology Management, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran

3 Assistant Professor, Department of Information Technology Management, Faculty of Management and Economics, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.

4 Assistant Professor, Science and Research Policy Department, National Research Institute for Science Policy, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

Addressing environmental risks in the energy industry has primarily focused on transitioning to renewable and low-carbon sources, with limited studies emphasizing internal change and innovation within the oil and gas sector. Simultaneously, investment trends and oil and gas demand indicate that full substitution will not be achieved, at least in the medium term. Global indicators, such as the Climate Change Performance Index, also reflect unfavorable conditions for producing countries. This study conducts a systematic review and content analysis of selected articles to identify the components of an integrated policy framework as a basis for formulating coordinated policies and designing feasible action plans aimed at environmental transformation. The findings indicate that the literature is evolving toward "multi-level and dynamic governance" and distinguish six interconnected key dimensions: smart regulation and governance, development of inclusive innovation ecosystems, stimulation of innovation and market development, inclusive and participatory governance, policy adaptability and resilience, and international cooperation in technology transfer. The proposed framework also suggests that effective transformation requires integrating these dimensions into a unified management system.

Keywords

Main Subjects

Science and Technology Policy Letters

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 11 May 2026

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History

  • Receive Date: 24 January 2026
  • Revise Date: 07 May 2026
  • Accept Date: 11 May 2026

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