Triple-Use Innovation: Embedding Sustainability into Civil-Military Innovation
- Post by: Tobias Larsson
- 14th December 2025
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Abstract
This paper introduces and explores triple-use innovation, a novel conceptual framework that extends beyond the established dual-use paradigm by embedding sustainability as a core dimension within innovation processes. Whereas dual-use research traditionally focuses on the civilian–military duality, triple-use innovation integrates civil, military, and sustainability domains from the outset. It argues that conventional innovation approaches create long-term vulnerabilities by relying on finite resources and infrastructures susceptible to disruption, without systematically incorporating resilience. In contrast, triple-use innovation seeks to align technological progress with societal and ecological stability by addressing how innovation can integrate crisis management, adaptation, and foresight while reducing resource intensity and unsustainable practices. Situated within planetary and social boundaries, triple-use innovation emphasises adaptability under uncertainty and offers a structure for co-designing civil, defence, and sustainability domains to maintain technological development within safe and regenerative limits.
Keywords
Triple-use innovation, Dual-use innovation, Innovation processes, Sustainability, Resilience, Defence innovation
Reference
Adelson, L., Elfsberg, J., Larsson, T., & Gustafsson, I. (2025). Triple-Use Innovation : Embedding Sustainability into Civil-Military Innovation. ISPIM Connects : Event Proceedings. Presented at the ISPIM Connects Yokohama – Yokohama, Japan on 1-3 December 2025.
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