Dynamics of innovation in the use of water resources in emerging markets

The advancement of water sustainability and reliance highly depends on the implementation of innovative ideas. However, despite being a vital resource, the water sector still faces many challenges in innovations compared to other industries. This study investigated three different aspects of innovation activities in the water sector in Kazakhstan, which represents a typical developing country. First, the potential water-related issues calling for more innovation activities were investigated. Second, the trend of innovation activities over 30 years was investigated with the help of patents. Third, the disruptions rendered by COVID-19 to innovation activities in the water sector were investigated through a questionnaire survey. The analysis results showed that the total volume of contaminated wastewater generated in Kazakhstan has generally increased with time. The number of water enterprises, patented water-related innovations, and total general patents showed a strong association, with correlation values ranging from 0.66 to 0.99. In all firms, regardless of the scale investigated in this study, the availability of local expertise, the culture of local organizations toward innovation, and the country’s business environment are all considered to have a significant impact on water innovation processes.