Eco-innovation assessment of biodigesters technology: an application in cassava processing industries in the south of Brazil, Parana state.

Eco-innovations are innovations capable of helping to reduce the environmental impacts of production processes. In this sense, the adoption of models that assess comprehensively, in an integrated manner and in different perspectives, the general performance of these innovations allows managers to guide their decisions. The object of this research is the use of an eco-innovation in the production processes of cassava, where the waste generated is treated by biodigesters. These cassava processing industries are located in southern Brazil, Paraná State, comprising a multiple case study. A literature review was also carried out to propose a set of indicators capable of assessing the overall impact of this eco-innovation in eight lines of action: (1) environmental, (2) social, (3) economic, (4) human resource training, (5) institutional development, (6) introduction of innovation, (7) unwanted occurrences, and (8) characteristics of environmental management. To compile and process the data, the computerized model INOVA-tec System was used. The objective was to employ the INOVA-tec System model as an instrument for evaluating eco-innovative processes in leading companies in its segment, looking for evidence to expand its usability to other realities in the agro-industry. The results show that the technology scenario is favorable to its dissemination; however, the low performance of the indicators together makes it underutilized.