GreenBuzz Impact:
Academic Findings

Through interviews and field observations, this University of St.Gallen study by Milena Bielefeldt explored the role of knowledge networks on sustainable development in Switzerland.

Using GreenBuzz as a case study, the results show that through inherent heterogeneity, various successful formats, and effective sharing among experts and peers, a holistic view on sustainable development and collaboration is promoted and ultimately the local sustainable ecosystem strengthened.

Scroll down to discover some of the main findings.

Photo credit: University of St.Gallen

Key Findings on
Knowledge Transfer

Networks connect diverse actors to share sustainability knowledge.
A mix of backgrounds enriches discussions and innovation.
Trust-based, informal settings encourage open exchange.
Events and group discussions help transfer deep expertise.
Job mobility spreads sustainability knowledge across sectors.
Network leaders shape discussions and knowledge flow.
Networks like GreenBuzz adapt global sustainability insights to local needs.
Networks keep professionals engaged and learning.

"GreenBuzz facilitates initiatives for sustainable development, by bringing together heterogeneous actors, promoting collaboration and a holistic approach and acting as catalysts for motivation. The network design plays an important role in fulfilling these functionalities.”

Milena Bielefeldt, HSG

Sustainability Knowledge Networks:
Key Findings

1 Network Structure Matters:

Importance of purpose-driven collaboration, open-mindedness, and structured knowledge-sharing events.

2 Dynamics & Interaction:

Building trust, and mix of informal and structured interactions to enhance engagement & sharing.

3 Large-scale vs. Small Group Interactions:

A variety of formats and communication settings impacts knowledge-sharing in different ways.

Three Levels of Impact

Individual

Knowledge networks provide learning opportunities, especially for professionals who lack access to academic resources after leaving university.
Individuals gain motivation, a sense of belonging, and emotional support, helping participants feel less isolated in sustainability efforts.
Career opportunities and whole new fields of knowledge can open up for individuals.

Organisational

Organisations benefit from an expanded knowledge network, gaining new collaborators, clients, and access to cutting-edge sustainability knowledge.
Knowledge sharing within network helps companies stay informed about industry trends and competitive developments.
Partner organizations engage in knowledge networks to educate employees, upscale sustainability initiatives, and foster inter-organizational learning.

Societal

Networks serve as platforms for knowledge sharing, collaboration, and innovation across different societal sectors.
Networks help close knowledge gaps by making sustainability expertise more accessible beyond specialist domains.
Networks facilitate connections between business, academia, and public institutions, fostering systemic change.

Cost

Interviewee Quotations:

“I've often heard the story that two met at a GreenBuzz event and met again some time later and one of them got a job precisely because they met two years previously.”

“Becoming a partner was a way to offer our employees the possibility to step out of their bubble and speak with the other companies or other people working in the field.”

“I think GreenBuzz is important because they provide a platform to a whole lot of different topics . . . I think GreenBuzz enables connections.”

“There have been discussions and there are collaborations that were more efficient because we also knew each other through GreenBuzz.”

GreenBuzz Impact Reports

For in-depth stats on our Impact based on membership surveys, check out our annual reports here.

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GreenBuzz Impact: Academic Findings

Key Findings on Knowledge Transfer

Sustainability Knowledge Networks: Key Findings

1

Network Structure Matters:

2

Dynamics & Interaction:

3

Large-scale vs. Small Group Interactions: