Romanian Transport Sector Companies: Differences From Other Industries And Factors Influencing Sustainability

This study examines the interplay between economic performance and sustainability initiatives within Romanian corporations, with a particular focus on the transport sector. While corporate sustainability is gaining global prominence, its implementation and economic implications exhibit significant variation across industries in Romania. The research investigates three primary factors influencing sustainability adoption: financial performance, sectoral distinctions, and corporate maturity. To assess these dimensions, surveys were conducted with 444 CEOs and CFOs, evaluating financial health, innovation strategies, and proactive management approaches. These qualitative insights were systematically cross-referenced with financial records from the Romanian Ministry of Finance spanning a ten-year period. The findings indicate that companies in the transport sector encounter distinct challenges in integrating sustainable practices, primarily due to financial constraints such as the costs associated with upgrading aging vehicle fleets. Relative to other industries, transport enterprises exhibit lower levels of proactive engagement and innovation in sustainability initiatives. Additionally, younger companies demonstrate a stronger commitment to ecological practices compared to older organizations, which tend to prioritize regulatory compliance over voluntary sustainability efforts. These results highlight the necessity of tailored policy interventions, fiscal incentives, and innovation-driven strategies to address industry-specific obstacles to sustainability. Achieving a balance between economic growth and environmental objectives requires strategic planning and targeted support mechanisms, particularly for high-impact sectors such as transportation. This research enhances the understanding of sustainability adoption dynamics in Romania and provides valuable insights for future studies on the long-term implications of corporate sustainability and environmental outcomes