Reframing SDG 11 Through the Triple Helix Model: Rethinking Urban Sustainability and Institutional Synergy

Year 2025, Volume: 12 Issue: 2, 528 - 549, 13.08.2025

Özcan Garan , İrem Güneş

https://doi.org/10.26650/JEPR1650031

Abstract

This paper reframes SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) through the lens of the triple helix model, exploring how institutional synergy and stakeholder interaction contribute to sustainable urban governance. It addresses the relationship between the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and innovation ecosystems from both theoretical and practical perspectives and argues that SDG 11 can be implemented more effectively through the triple helix model. The triple helix model provides a framework for understanding knowledge generation and innovation, emphasizing the interactions among universities, industry, and government. This study analyzes how this model intersects with urban sustainability goals, focusing on stakeholder engagement and institutional contributions to SDG 11. Through a literature analysis and conceptual review, this study reinterprets the triple helix model within sustainable urban governance, integrating policy, innovation, and institutional transformation.

Based on qualitative content analysis of the Marmara Urban Forum (MARUF21) documents, the research critically evaluates how urban forums function as intermediaries for collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and policy dialogue. The analysis process incorporated triangulation across researchers, including multiple readings and collaborative coding sessions, to enhance interpretive coherence and reduce bias. The findings indicate that universities lead in innovation-driven proposals, industry focuses on pragmatic solutions, and government engagement remains limited beyond policy discussions. Moreover, the study highlights the role of digital transformation in enhancing collaboration, as MARUF21’s digital platform facilitated international participation and cross-sectoral exchange. These results underscore the need for more integrated and institutionalized collaboration mechanisms, reinforcing urban forums as evolving and dynamic triple helix intermediaries for sustainable cities. These findings also emphasize the importance of institutional synergy, highlighting how coordinated actions across university, industry, and government actors remain critical for advancing urban sustainability goals.

Keywords

Triple Helix Model , Sustainable Cities and Communities , Institutional Economics , Innovation Governance , Insti tutional Synergy

References

• Arcadis. (2018). Citizen centric cities the sustainable cities index 2018. https://www.arcadis.com/campaigns/citizencentriccities/images/ %7B1d5ae7e2-a348-4b6e-b1d7-6d94fa7d7567%7Dsustainable_cities_index_2018_arcadis.pdf google scholar
• Bellgardt, F., Gohlke, J., Haase, H. and Parzonka, R. (2014). Triple Helix and Residential Development in a Science and Technology Park: The Role of Intermediaries. Triple Helix, 1 (10). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40604-014-0010-1 google scholar
• Bonenberg, A. and Angoneze-Grela, E. (2023). University–municipality–business (Triple Helix) cooperation model in practice–ecological district of innovation and technology in Poznan (EDIT Poznań). Przestrzeń i Forma, (56), 199-218. http://doi.org/10.21005/pif.2023. 56.C-02 google scholar
• Cai, Y. (2014). Implementing the l in a non-Western Context: An Institutional Logics Perspective. Triple Helix, 1 (1). https://doi.org/10. 1186/s40604-014-0001-2 google scholar
• Cai, Y. (2015). What Contextual Factors Shape “Innovation in Innovation”? Integration of Insights from the Triple Helix and the Institutional Logics Perspective. Social Science Information, 54 (3), 299-326. https://doi.org/10.1177/0539018415583527 google scholar
• Cai, Y. (2022). Neo-triple helix model of innovation ecosystems: integrating triple, quadruple and quintuple helix models. Triple Helix, 9 (1), 76-106. https://doi.org/10.1163/21971927-bja10029 google scholar
• Cai, Y. and Etzkowitz, H. (2020). Theorizing the Triple Helix Model: Past, Present, and Future. Triple Helix, 7 (3), 189-226. https://doi.org/ 10.1163/21971927-bja10003 google scholar
• Caloffi, A., Colovic, A., Rizzoli, V. and Rossi, F. (2023). Innovation Intermediaries’ Types and Functions: A Computational Analysis of the Literature, Technological Forecasting and Social Change, 189. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.techfore.2023.122351 google scholar
• Carter, N., Bryant-Lukosius, D., DiCenso, A., Blythe, J., and Neville, A. J. (2014). The use of triangulation in qualitative research. Oncology Nursing Forum, 41(5), 545-547. https://doi.org/10.1188/14.onf.545-547 google scholar
• Champenois, C. and Etzkowitz, H. (2018). From Boundary Line to Boundary Space: The Creation of Hybrid Organizations as a Triple Helix Micro-Foundation. Technovation, 76, 28-39. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.technovation.2017.11.002 google scholar
• Chatzinikolaou, D. (2025). On Smart Cities and Triple-Helix Intermediaries: A Critical-Realist Perspective. Smart Cities, 8 (3), 74. https:// doi.org/10.3390/smartcities8030074 google scholar
• Diaz-Sarachaga, J.M. (2024). Integration of the Triple Helix Model in Sustainability Research. ISOSCAN as Case Study. In: Leal Filho, W., Salvia, A.L., Portela de Vasconcelos, C.R. (eds) An Agenda for Sustainable Development Research. (pp. 503-519). World Sustainability Series. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-65909-6_28 google scholar
• Etzkowitz, H. (2002). Networks of Innovation: Science, Technology and Development in the Triple Helix Era. International Journal of Technology Management & Sustainable Development, 1(1), 7-20. https://doi.org/10.1386/ijtm.1.1.7 google scholar
• Emeis, S. and Fallmann, J. (2022). Unsatisfying transfer of climate research to urban planning: The regulatory trap in the triple helix. Triple Helix, 9 (3), 275-295. https://doi.org/10.1163/21971927-bja10035 google scholar
• Etzkowitz, H. (2003a). Innovation in Innovation: The Triple Helix of University-Industry-Government Relations. Social Science Information, 42 (3), 293-337. https://doi.org/10.1177/05390184030423002 google scholar
• Etzkowitz, H. (2003b). Learning From Transition: The Triple Helix As Innovation System. [Conference Presentation] Knowledge Based Society: A Challenge for New EU and Accession Countries, Zagreb, Croatia. https://www.pilar.hr/wp-content/images/stories/ dokumenti/zbornici/27/z_27_039.pdf google scholar
• Etzkowitz, H. (2008). The Triple Helix: University-Industry-Government Innovation in Action. London and New York: Routledge. google scholar
• Etzkowitz, H. (2010). University-Industry-Government: The Triple Helix Model of Innovation. 51st EOQ Congress 2007 (51-73). European Organization of Quality. google scholar
• Etzkowitz, H. (2011). Normative Change in Science and the Birth of the Triple Helix. Social Science Information, 50 (3-4), 549-568. https:// doi.org/10.1177/0539018411411403 google scholar
• Etzkowitz, H. (2014). The contribution of university-industry-government interactions to creative entrepreneurship and economic development. Handbook of research on entrepreneurship and creativity, Edward Elgar Publishing, 323-359. google scholar
• Etzkowitz, H. and Dzisah, J. (2008). Rethinking Development: Circulation in the Triple Helix. Technology Analysis & Strategic Management, 20 (6), 653–666. https://doi.org/10.1080/09537320802426309 google scholar
• Etzkowitz, H. and Leydesdorff, L. (1995). The Triple Helix–University-Industry-Government Relations: A Laboratory for Knowledge-Based Economic Development. EASST Review, 14 (1), 14-19. https://ssrn.com/abstract=2480085 google scholar
• Etzkowitz, H. and Leydesdorff, L. (1998). The Endless Transition: A “Triple Helix” of University-Industry-Gvernment Relations: Introduction. Minerva, 203-208. google scholar
• Etzkowitz, H. and Leydesdorff, L. (2000). The dynamics of innovation: from National Systems and “Mode 2” to a Triple Helix of university– industry–government relations. Research Policy, 29 (2), 109-123. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0048-7333(99)00055-4 google scholar
• Etzkowitz, H., Webster, A., Gebhardt, C. and Terra, B. R. C. (2000). The Future of the University and the University of the Future: Evolution of Ivory Tower to Entrepreneurial Paradigm. Research Policy, 29 (2), 313-330. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0048-7333(99)00069-4 google scholar
• Fallah Shayan, N., Mohabbati-Kalejahi, N., Alavi, S. and Zahed, M. A. (2022). Sustainable development goals (SDGs) as a framework for corporate social responsibility (CSR). Sustainability, 14 (3), 1222. https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031222 google scholar
• Farinha, L., Ferreira, J. and Gouveia, B. (2016). Networks of Innovation and Competitiveness: A Triple Helix Case Study. Journal of the Knowledge Economy, 7 (1), 259-275. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13132-014-0218-3 google scholar
• Frølund, L. and Ziethen, M. (2014). The Hermeneutics of Knowledge Creation in Organisations. Philosophy of Management, 13, 33–49. https://doi.org/10.5840/pom201413316 google scholar
• Gebhardt, C. and Huerta, J. M. P. (2024). Integrating Triple Helix and Sustainable Transition Research for Transformational Governance: Climate Change Adaptation and Climate Justice in Barcelona. Triple Helix, 11 (1), 107-130. https://doi.org/10.1163/21971927-bja10053 google scholar
• Gündoğdu, H. G. and Aytekin, A. (2022). İklim Değişikliği, Sürdürülebilir Şehirler ve Topluluklar Bağlamında Çok Kriterli Bir Değerlendirme. İnsan ve İnsan, 9 (33), 33-52. https://doi.org/10.29224/insanveinsan.1104121 google scholar
• Howells, J., (2006). Intermediation and the role of intermediaries in innovation. Research Policy, 35 (5), 715–728. https://doi.org/10.1016/ j.respol.2006.03.005 google scholar
• Kapetaniou, C. and Lee, S. H. (2017). A framework for assessing the performance of universities: The case of Cyprus. Technological Forecasting and Social Change, 123, 169-180. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.techfore.2016.03.015 google scholar
• Karakurt Tosun, K. (2009). Sürdürülebilirlik olgusu ve kentsel yapıya etkileri. Paradoks, Ekonomi, Sosyoloji ve Politika Dergisi, 10 (2). google scholar
• König, J., Suwala, L., Delargy, C. (2021). Helix Models of Innovation and Sustainable Development Goals. In: Leal Filho, W., Azul, A.M., Brandli, L., Lange Salvia, A., Wall, T. (eds) Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure (pp. 1-15). Encyclopedia of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-71059-4_91-1 google scholar
• Leydesdorff, L. and Etzkowitz, H. (1998). The Triple Helix as a Model for Innovation Studies. Science & Public Policy, 25 (3), 195-203. https://doi.org/10.1093/spp/25.3.195 google scholar
• Marmara Municipalities Union. (2022). MARUF21 Report (Marmara Municipalities Union Publication No: 150). https://mbbkulturyayinlar i.com/maruf21-report google scholar
• Marmara Urban Forum (n.d.). Retrieved July 15, 2025 from https://maruf21.marmaraurbanforum.org/ google scholar
• Mayring, P. (2014). Qualitative Content Analysis: Theoretical Foundation, Basic Procedures and Software Solution. Klagenfurt. Retrieved from https://nbn-resolving.org/urn:nbn:de:0168-ssoar-395173 google scholar
• Mazzucato, M. (2013). The Entrepreneurial State: Debunking Public vs. Private Sector Myths. London: Anthem Press. google scholar
• Mazzucato, M. (2018). Mission-oriented innovation policies: Challenges and opportunities, Industrial and Corporate Change, 27, (5), 2018, 803-815. https://doi.org/10.1093/icc/dty034 google scholar
• Metcalfe, A. S. (2010). Examining the trilateral networks of the triple helix: Intermediating organizations and academy-industry-government relations. Critical Sociology, 36 (4), 503-519. https://doi.org/10.1177/0896920510365920 google scholar
• Meyer, M., Kuusisto, J., Grant, K., De Silva, M., Flowers, S. and Choksy, U. (2019). Towards New Triple Helix Organisations? A Comparative Study of Competence Centres as Knowledge, Consensus and Innovation Spaces. R&D Management, 49 (4), 555-573. https://doi. org/10.1111/radm.12342 google scholar
• Pahnke, E. C., McDonald, R., Wang, D. and Hallen, B. (2015). Exposed: Venture Capital, Competitor Ties, and Entrepreneurial Innovation. Academy of Management Journal, 58 (5), 1334-1360. https://doi.org/10.5465/amj.2012.0777 google scholar
• Pinto, J. T., Morales, M. E., Fedoruk, M., Kovaleva, M. and Diemer, A. (2019). Servitization in Support of Sustainable Cities: What Are Steel’s Contributions and Challenges? Sustainability, 11 (3), 855. https://doi.org/10.3390/su11030855 google scholar
• Pique, J.M., Miralles, F. and Berbegal-Mirabent, J. (2020). Application of the Triple Helix Model in the Creation and Evolution of Areas of Innovation. In: Abu-Tair, A., Lahrech, A., Al Marri, K., Abu-Hijleh, B. (eds) Proceedings of the II International Triple Helix Summit. THS 2018. Lecture Notes in Civil Engineering, vol 43, (223-244), Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-23898-8_17 google scholar
• Poppen, F. and Decker, R. (2018). The Intermediary as an Institutional Entrepreneur: Institutional Change and Stability in Triple-Helix Cooperation. Triple Helix, 5 (1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40604-018-0063-7 google scholar
• Ranga, M. and Etzkowitz, H. (2013). ‘Triple Helix Systems: An Analytical Framework for Innovation Policy and Practice in the Knowledge Society”, Industry and Higher Education, 27 (4), 237-262. https://doi.org/10.5367/ihe.2013.0165 google scholar
• Reich-Graefe, R. (2016). Intermediation in Intermediation: Triple Helix Innovation and Intermediary Legal Organisation. Triple Helix, 3 (10). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40604-016-0041-x google scholar
• Rogers, R. (1997). Cities for a small planet. Boulder. google scholar
• Roller, M. R. (2019). A Quality Approach to Qualitative Content Analysis: Similarities and Differences Compared to Other Qualitative Methods. Forum Qualitative Sozialforschung Forum: Qualitative Social Research, 20 (3). https://doi.org/10.17169/fqs-20.3.3385 google scholar
• Saad, M. and Zawdie, G., eds. (2011). Theory and Practice of the Triple Helix Model in Developing Countries: Issues and Challenges. New York: Routledge. google scholar
• Saad, M., Zawdie, G. and Malairaja, C. (2008). The Triple Helix Strategy for Universities In Developing Countries: The Experiences in Malaysia and Algeria, Science and Public Policy, 35 (6), 431-443. https://doi.org/10.3152/030234208X323316 google scholar
• Schreier, M. (2012). Qualitative Content Analysis in Practice. London: Sage. google scholar
• Ståhlbröst, A. and Holst, M. (2017). Reflecting on Actions in Living Lab Research. Technology Innovation Management Review, 7 (2), 27-34. https://doi.org/10.22215/timreview/1055 google scholar
• Su, Y. and Fan, D. (2023). Smart cities and sustainable development. Regional Studies, 57 (4), 722-738. https://doi.org/10.1080/00343404. 2022.2106360 google scholar
• Suvinen, N., Konttinen, J. and Nieminen, M. (2010). How Necessary are Intermediary Organizations in the Commercialization of Research? European Planning Studies, 18 (9), 1365-1389. http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/09654313.2010.492584 google scholar
• Svensson, P. Klofsten, M. and Etzkowitz, H. (2012). An Entrepreneurial University Strategy for Renewing a Declining Industrial City: The Norrköping Way, European Planning Studies, 20 (4), 505-525. https://doi.org/10.1080/09654313.2012.665616 google scholar
• Tuunainen, J. (2002) Reconsidering the Mode 2 and the Triple Helix: A Critical Comment Based on a Case Study, Science & Technology Studies, 15 (2), 36-58. https://doi.org/10.23987/sts.55144 google scholar
• United Nations General Assembly. (2015, October 21). Transforming our world: The 2030 agenda for sustainable development. Resolution adopted by the General Assembly on 25 September 2015, A/RES/70/1. https://sdgs.un.org/sites/default/files/publications/ 21252030%20Agenda%20for%20Sustainable%20Development%20web.pdf google scholar
• United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs. (2022). The sustainable development goals report 2022. United Nations. https://unstats.un.org/sdgs/report/2022/ google scholar
• Van Lente, H., Hekkert, M. P., Smits, R. and Waveren, B. (2003). Roles of Systemic Intermediaries in Transition Processes. International Journal of Innovation Management. 07 (03), 247-279. https://doi.org/10.1142/S1363919603000817 google scholar
• Van Geenhuizen, M. and Nejabat, R. (2023). Urban Policy Response to Radical Innovation in Sustainable Energy: The Case of University Spin-Offs and Local Triple Helix Interaction. Advances in Environmental and Engineering Research, 4 (1), 1-16. https://doi.org/10. 21926/aeer.2301007 google scholar
• World Commission on Environment and Development. (1987). Our Common Future: Report of the World Commission on Environment and google scholar
• Development.https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/content/documents/5987our-common-future.pdf google scholar
• Yin, R. K. (2018). Case Study Research and Applications: Design and Methods. 6th ed. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage. google scholar
• Yokakul, N. and Zawdie, G. (2009). The Role of Triple Helix for Promoting Social Capital, Industrial Technology and Innovation in the SME Sector in Thailand. Science Technology & Society, 14 (1), 93-117. https://doi.org/10.1177/097172180801400104 google scholar
• Zadegan, M. G., Ghazinoory, S., & Nasri, S. (2025). The Triple Helix Model of Innovation and Sustainable Development Goals: A Literature Review. Sustainable Development. https://doi.org/10.1002/sd.70041 google scholar
• Zhou C and Etzkowitz H (2021) Triple helix twins: a framework for achieving innovation and UN sustainable development goals. Sustainability, 13 (12), 6535. https://doi.org/10.3390/su13126535 google scholar