Evaluating sustainable innovation pathways for climate-resilient growth in Ethiopia under climate and systemic challenges

Abstract

Abstract Ethiopia faces escalating climate risks, including recurrent droughts, erratic rainfall, rising temperatures, biodiversity loss, and freshwater scarcity, which threaten food security and sustainable development. This study investigates how sustainable innovation can serve as a pathway for climate-resilient growth by analysing climate data (1973–2020), stakeholder surveys across multiple regions, and policy frameworks such as Vision 2025 and the Climate Resilient Green Economy strategy. Results reveal increasing vulnerability, with projections of up to 2.2 °C warming over the next five decades and drought recurrence every 1.8–2.3 years in northern areas. Key barriers include high implementation costs, weak infrastructure, limited financing, and bureaucratic inefficiencies, while opportunities lie in Ethiopia’s abundant natural resources, youthful population, and emerging local initiatives. Drawing on global lessons, the study emphasizes integrated, multisectoral collaboration and systems thinking as critical to scaling sustainable innovation. It concludes that leveraging innovation in agriculture, renewable energy, and urban systems can foster inclusive green growth and long-term resilience.