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How Sustainable Leadership Can Leverage Sustainable Development

Author

Listed:
  • Albérico Travassos Rosário

    (GOVCOPP–Governance, Competitiveness and Public Policies, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
    IADE–Faculdade de Design, Tecnologia e Comunicação, Universidade Europeia, 1500-210 Lisboa, Portugal)

  • Anna Carolina Boechat

    (IADE–Faculdade de Design, Tecnologia e Comunicação, Universidade Europeia, 1500-210 Lisboa, Portugal
    UNIDCOM–IADE, Research Unit in Design and Communication, 1500-210 Lisboa, Portugal)

Abstract

Sustainable leadership plays a pivotal role in fostering long-term economic, social, and environmental development. As businesses increasingly integrate sustainability into their core strategies, leaders must adopt approaches that align profitability with ethical responsibility. This paper explores how sustainable leadership contributes to sustainable development by examining key leadership principles, decision-making frameworks, and corporate strategies. The discussion highlights the shift from short-term financial goals to long-term value creation, emphasising stakeholder engagement, ethical governance, and innovation. By integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles, leaders can enhance resilience, drive corporate sustainability initiatives, and positively impact communities. The study also underscores the importance of knowledge sharing, organisational culture, and adaptability in embedding sustainability into business practices. Through a systematic bibliometric literature review, this research provides insights for executives, policymakers, and academics seeking to navigate the evolving landscape of sustainability-driven leadership. The findings underscore the necessity of aligning leadership strategies with global sustainability imperatives.

Suggested Citation

  • Albérico Travassos Rosário & Anna Carolina Boechat, 2025. "How Sustainable Leadership Can Leverage Sustainable Development," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(8), pages 1-27, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:8:p:3499-:d:1634318
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    2. Aws AlHares, 2025. "Ethical Leadership and Its Impact on Corporate Sustainability and Financial Performance: The Role of Alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(15), pages 1-26, July.

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