Title: Corporate sustainability strategies: insights, innovations and future directions

Authors: Angelo Roucos; Leandro F. Pereira; Álvaro L. Dias; Vânia Patrício

Addresses: ISCTE – Instituto Universitário de Lisboa, Av. das Forças Armadas, 1649-026 Lisboa, Portugal ' Business Research Unit (BRU), ISCTE – Instituto Universitário de Lisboa, Av. das Forças Armadas, 1649-026 Lisboa, Portugal ' Business Research Unit (BRU), ISCTE – Instituto Universitário de Lisboa, Av. das Forças Armadas, 1649-026 Lisboa, Portugal ' ISCTE – Instituto Universitário de Lisboa, Av. das Forças Armadas, 1649-026 Lisboa, Portugal

Abstract: In a world increasingly concerned with environmental sustainability, this study addresses the growing need for effective green business practices. This research aims to identify and analyse strategies that enable companies to improve their environmental performance. Through a systematic literature review and a series of in-depth interviews with companies of varying sizes from different industries, followed by analysis of the interview data to identify patterns and commonalities, this study examines the practices that can contribute to environmental sustainability and assesses their impact. The main findings of this study highlight the importance of organisational commitment, leadership, effective communication systems, and the use of technological advances, as well as employee engagement in driving sustainable initiatives. The study also identifies challenges in assessing progress over time and prioritising sustainability within organisations and provides valuable insights into corporate sustainability practices. Future research could explore the integration of emerging technologies, such as blockchain and AI, in enhancing sustainability efforts, and examine the long-term effects of these practices on both environmental and financial performance. This study offers valuable insights for companies seeking to balance profitability with environmental performance and responsibility.

Keywords: environmental performance; environmental management; green initiatives; corporate sustainability.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSD.2026.150562

International Journal of Sustainable Development, 2026 Vol.29 No.1, pp.79 - 115

Received: 27 Feb 2024
Accepted: 07 Sep 2024
Published online: 17 Dec 2025 *

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