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Moving beyond “the” business case: How to make corporate sustainability work

Author

Listed:
  • Timo Busch
  • Michael L. Barnett
  • Roger Leonard Burritt
  • Benjamin W. Cashore
  • R. Edward Freeman
  • Irene Henriques
  • Bryan W. Husted
  • Rajat Panwar
  • Jonatan Pinkse
  • Stefan Schaltegger
  • Jeff York

Abstract

One of the most investigated research topics in the corporate sustainability literature is “the” business case. Long lionized for linking the profit motive to corporate environmental initiatives, the business case for sustainability is now vehemently criticized. These critics generally argue for a return to the state and stronger regulatory frameworks. Others counter that because the private sector's capabilities are uniquely suited to realizing effective sustainability innovations and outcomes, we must not abandon but further develop our business case understanding. In this view, firms' voluntary efforts are key for innovative solutions to sustainability problems. This article overviews and unites these seemingly disparate positions. We move the field forward by placing in context criticisms and also opportunities for more meaningful positive impacts from corporate sustainability. Specifically, we argue that an effective business case orientation requires shifting to a broader “all stakeholders win” approach. This entails impact orientation, collaborative approaches, and economic restraint.

Suggested Citation

  • Timo Busch & Michael L. Barnett & Roger Leonard Burritt & Benjamin W. Cashore & R. Edward Freeman & Irene Henriques & Bryan W. Husted & Rajat Panwar & Jonatan Pinkse & Stefan Schaltegger & Jeff York, 2024. "Moving beyond “the” business case: How to make corporate sustainability work," Business Strategy and the Environment, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 33(2), pages 776-787, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:bstrat:v:33:y:2024:i:2:p:776-787
    DOI: 10.1002/bse.3514
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    2. Muhammad Khan & Karl Behrendt & Dimitrios Papadas & Lydia Arnold, 2025. "‘Strategic sustainable development: The role of intermediaries in managing the sustainability compliance of a multi‐tier crop agri‐food supply chain. A developing economy perspective’," Sustainable Development, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., vol. 33(1), pages 992-1013, February.
    3. Roman Meinhold & Christoph Wagner & Bablu Kumar Dhar, 2025. "Digital sustainability and eco‐environmental sustainability: A review of emerging technologies, resource challenges, and policy implications," Sustainable Development, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., vol. 33(2), pages 2323-2338, April.

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