Meta-management for sustainability in territorial ecosystems: The case of Libera’s social reuse of territory

Abstract This work proposes a conceptual framework that combines the service ecosystems view (stemming from Service-Dominant logic) with the concept of territorial ecosystems (stemming from destination management studies). The paper aims at exploring the underlying dynamics of territorial ecosystems that can impact the competitiveness and sustainability of a community as a whole. The main goal is to support decision making in disadvantaged territories characterized by the urge to harmonize needs to achieve a sustainable advantage. Based on a literature review of the evolution of territory in destination management, a model for meta-management in territorial ecosystems is proposed. The empirical research adopts a mixed method (content analysis and semi-structured interviews) to explore the single case study of Libera, an Italian non-profit association that challenges organized crime. The study reframes Libera, its actors and territory as a service ecosystem. The findings from the case study reveal the existence of different types of territorial capital at the micro, meso and macro-level. Moreover, the results allow the identification of three main steps that the governance can realize at a meta-management level to harmonize the actor’s objectives and goals and foster the creation of a cohesive sustainable-oriented culture. From a theoretical point of view, the study encourages further research to introduce a strategic framework able to identify different strategies for value co-creation and sustainable outcomes. Revealing the key drivers for the local development and sustainability of territories can help managers understand how to optimize the relationships of all the ecosystem’s stakeholders and how to monitor value co-creation in progress during all the phases of the service provision.