Information technology as a change actant in sustainability innovation: Insights from Uppsala

• DOI: 10.1016/j.jsis.2010.09.007
• Publication Date: 2010-11-19T09:22:06Z
• Authors: Fredrik Bengtsson; Pär J. Ågerfalk
• Keywords: Sustainability Reporting; Actor–network theory

This study investigates the effects of a sustainability initiative in a Swedish municipality viewed through the lens of actor network theory. The focus is on the consequences of committing to the implementation of a reporting and analysis system for IT-supported sustainability. This commitment involves several actor networks, both internal and external to the municipality. The study shows that, to implement successfully a sustainability initiative, a thorough understanding of organizational routines and standards is required to enrol the affected stakeholders. Information systems can play a central role as tools for improving sustainability indicators and routines, thereby constituting important change actants.