Creative local innovation: Driving sustainable development through sufficiency economy philosophy in the disruption era

Abstract

This academic article aims to analyze the role of creative local innovation in driving sustainable development within the framework of the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy (SEP) in the disruption era. The study employs conceptual analysis and a systematic literature review, selecting research and academic documents from 2014-2024 relevant to local innovation, social innovation, and the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy. The results indicate that local development in an era where artificial intelligence, automation, and the platform economy are reshaping production and employment structures should shift from a competitive toward a balanced and value-driven approach, emphasizing resilience-building so that communities can adapt flexibly to volatility. This study highlights the importance of the "Sufficiency Innovation Framework," which integrates creativity with moderation, rationality, and resilience through three foundational pillars: (1) Mindful Innovation-development that is conscious of social, environmental, and ethical impacts; (2) Inclusive Innovation-opening spaces for all stakeholder groups to co-create and drive innovation; and (3) Adaptive Innovation-the capacity to adjust and regenerate community strengths from within. This framework serves as an integrative model that reflects the royal philosophy of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, The Great, while connecting with international innovation concepts including social innovation, frugal innovation, and the creative economy.