Sustainability and sustainable development
Sustainability and sustainable development
Contributor(s): Magdalena Stefańska (Editor)
Subject(s): Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Anthropology, Social Sciences, Economy, Law, Constitution, Jurisprudence, Supranational / Global Economy, Business Economy / Management, Energy and Environmental Studies, International Law, Sociology, Economic policy, Environmental and Energy policy, Culture and social structure , Social development, Management and complex organizations, Political Ecology, Sociology of the arts, business, education, Economic development, Environmental interactions, Law on Economics, Accounting - Business Administration, Marketing / Advertising, Tourism, Social Norms / Social Control, Human Resources in Economy, ICT Information and Communications Technologies, Business Ethics, Globalization, Socio-Economic Research, EU-Legislation, Commercial Law
Published by: Wydawnictwo Uniwersytetu Ekonomicznego w Poznaniu
Keywords: sustainability;sustainable development;corporate social responsibility (CSR);management;marketing;enterprises;consumption;product;life-cycle;food waste;tourism;
Summary/Abstract: The aim of this book is to present the most important issues related to sustainable development (SD) and corporate social responsibility (CSR). They are discussed from a macro and micro perspective, both in the form of theoretical foundations of these concepts and practical examples of companies operating in Central and Eastern European countries that have implemented these ideas in their daily operations and translated them into corporate and functional strategies. The book consists of four parts. The first one is theoretical in its assumptions and is devoted to explaining the key concepts of sustainable development (SD) and corporate social responsibility (CSR). The authors describe the determinants of sustainable development in the contemporary world, including the most important ones, such as globalization, climate change, poverty, unlimited consumption, as well as limited access to natural resources - all in relation to the goals of sustainable development. The chapter also discusses the concept of corporate social responsibility (CSR), which is now recognized as the process by which business contributes to the implementation of sustainable development. How sustainable development (SD) and corporate social responsibility (CSR) are incorporated into the organization's strategies and influence the corporate strategy on the corporate and functional areas of the organization is presented in the last chapter of the first part of the e-book. The next part of the e-book helps readers understand the concepts of SD and CSR in the field of organizational strategy - in strategic management, and at the level of functional strategies—marketing, human resources, marketing research, accounting and operational management. The authors explain the reasons why companies need to consider the local and global perspective when setting SDGs, and the existence of potential conflicts within them. Taking into account the area of marketing, the authors point to the increase in environmental and social awareness of all stakeholders, which translates into changes in the criteria for decision-making by managers and risk assessment. The issue of sustainability is also the subject of market research. Companies producing products and services, institutions dealing with environmental or consumer protection, scientists and students conduct many research projects related to, inter alia, much more. How to use secondary data for analysis and how to prepare, conduct, analyze and interpret the results of primary research in that area are discussed in detail in the next chapter of this section. The concept of SD also refers to the basic functions of human resource management (HRM)—recruitment, motivation, evaluation and control. They should take into account SD not only for the efficiency of the organization and long-term economic benefits, but also for ethical reasons. Thanks to the SHRM, the awareness and behavior of the entire organization can strongly express sustainable goals in the planning and implementation of the overall corporate strategy. The growing importance of the idea of SD and the concept of CSR also resulted in the need for accounting and finance to develop solutions enabling the provision of information on the methods and results of implementing these concepts in entities operating on the market. This part of the book also examines manufacturing activities in the context of sustainability. As a result, many problems arise: waste of resources, mismanagement, excessive energy consumption, environmental pollution, use of human potential, etc. The chapter presents such concepts as: zero-waste, lean-manufacturing, six-sigma, circular production, design and recycling products in the life cycle as well as ecological and environmentally friendly production. The next two parts of the e-book contain examples of companies from Central and Eastern Europe that used SD goals in their strategies, questions and tasks for readers.
- E-ISBN-13: 978-83-8211-074-6
- Page Count: 268
- Publication Year: 2021
- Language: English
Sustainable development in the contemporary world – determinants
Sustainable development in the contemporary world – determinants
(Sustainable development in the contemporary world – determinants)
- Author(s):Jana Gálová, Anna Mravcová
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Economy, Business Economy / Management, Energy and Environmental Studies, Sociology, Economic policy, Environmental and Energy policy, Political Ecology, Business Ethics, Globalization, Socio-Economic Research
- Page Range:15-25
- No. of Pages:11
- Keywords:climat change;globalisation;poverty;resources;sustainable development;unlimited consumption;
- Summary/Abstract:The aim of this chapter is to describe various determinants of sustainable development in the contemporary world, including those most important, such as globalisation, climate change, poverty versus unlimited consumption as well as limited exhausted access to resources—with regard to the goals of sustainable development. The other objective is to give the reader essential resources covering the topic from various viewpoints and a starting point for discussions about sustainability.
Sustainability, sustainable development and corporate social responsibility
Sustainability, sustainable development and corporate social responsibility
(Sustainability, sustainable development and corporate social responsibility)
- Author(s):Barbara Borusiak
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics, Economy, Business Economy / Management, Energy and Environmental Studies, Economic policy, Environmental and Energy policy, Management and complex organizations, Economic development, Environmental interactions, Marketing / Advertising, Human Resources in Economy, Business Ethics, Globalization
- Page Range:27-33
- No. of Pages:7
- Keywords:Corporate Social Responsability (CSR);economic sustainability;environmental sustainability;social sustainability;sustainable development;
- Summary/Abstract:The aim of current chapter is to present the genesis of 2 related phenomena: the sustainability and sustainable development concept, as well as the range of definitions in order to suggest a definition that can be applied in the whole e-book. The other objective is to present the Corporate Social Responsibility concept which, nowadays, is recognised as the process through which business contributes to sustainable development implementation. It was highlighted, however, that in the current situation, sustainable development may be achieved by new types of businesses built on the principles of saving resources (by recycling or reuse). For traditional businesses, based on non-renewable resources, CSR leading to sustainable development is a real challenge as it requires re-shaping business models.
Sustainable consumption
Sustainable consumption
(Sustainable consumption)
- Author(s):Barbara Borusiak
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Economy, Business Economy / Management, Energy and Environmental Studies, Culture and social structure , Sociology of the arts, business, education, Environmental interactions, Marketing / Advertising, Human Resources in Economy, Business Ethics
- Page Range:35-41
- No. of Pages:7
- Keywords:3 R’s;minimalism;responsible consumption;second-hand consumption;sharing economy;
- Summary/Abstract:The aim of the current chapter is to present the essence of sustainable consumption andits basic rules: Reduce-Reuse-Recycle. Minimalism and sharing economy were presented as the manifestation of the Reduce rule. Reuse requires distribution systems which will give access to preowned products (in a broader scope), thus, they will provide products with a second life. This may be provided by alternative retail formats which are oriented towards the sale of second-hand products. Some of these formats, especially online applications, are becoming quite popular—their number, as well as the amount of their customers is rapidly growing. Also, traditional mainstream retailers have become involved in second-hand product sales.
Principles of the United Nations Global Compact
Principles of the United Nations Global Compact
(Principles of the United Nations Global Compact)
- Author(s):Anna Mravcová, Jana Gálová
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Economy, Energy and Environmental Studies, Governance, Economic policy, Environmental and Energy policy, International relations/trade, Management and complex organizations, Economic development, Business Ethics, Globalization, Geopolitics
- Page Range:43-52
- No. of Pages:10
- Keywords:10 principles;companies;sustainability;Sustainable Development Goals;UN Global Compact;
- Summary/Abstract:The United Nations Global Compact represents one of the biggest voluntary initiatives under the United Nations organisation. This initiative was founded in 2000. It is strongly connected with Corporate Social Responsibility and efforts in achieving sustainability as it is a call for businesses worldwide to contribute towards sustainable world development in economic, social as well as environmental areas. Until last year, when the UNGC celebrated its 20th anniversary, it already had over 11,500 participants all around the world. This fact can have significant impact on achieving its goals which were set in the form of 10 principles divided into 4 main areas, where the positive and sustainable operating of business as well as other types of organisations is much than needed today. Therefore, in the text of this subchapter, the basic information about the very Global Compact initiative is presented, as well as its 10 universal principles set in the areas of human rights, labour standards, environment and anti-corruption, through which the participants are required to take strategic actions in achieving broader societal goals, mainly current Sustainable Development Goals,the interconnection of which is also presented and highlighted. The aim is to help understand the importance of this UN initiative for creating a better and sustainable world by incorporating business and other organisations.
Sustainable development and corporate social responsibility - organisation level
Sustainable development and corporate social responsibility - organisation level
(Sustainable development and corporate social responsibility - organisation level)
- Author(s):Magdalena Stefańska, Blaženka Knežević
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Economy, Business Economy / Management, Energy and Environmental Studies, Marketing / Advertising, Human Resources in Economy, Business Ethics
- Page Range:53-68
- No. of Pages:16
- Keywords:business functions;corporate strategy;mission of organisation;sustainable development;corporate social responsibility (CSR);
- Summary/Abstract:Sustainable development and CSR are included in the strategies of most companies. To learn more what companies do for the environment and society—usually, one can visit their websites and read about their SD or CSR activities in reports. However—the quality of such reports differs—from minimum information to very deep immersion into explaining to stakeholders how an organisation understands its role in society. The aim of this chapter is to explain how sustainable development (SD) and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) influence corporate strategy, both on a corporate level—mission, vision and its goals, and functional areas of organisation.
Sustainable development in corporate strategy
Sustainable development in corporate strategy
(Sustainable development in corporate strategy)
- Author(s):Blaženka Knežević, Petra Skrobot
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Economy, Business Economy / Management, Energy and Environmental Studies, Management and complex organizations, Marketing / Advertising, Human Resources in Economy, Business Ethics, Globalization
- Page Range:71-82
- No. of Pages:12
- Keywords:corporate strategy;Sustainable Development Goals (SDG);competitive advantage;sustainability development;
- Summary/Abstract:The aim of the chapter is to explain how to incorporate Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into corporate strategy in order to increase the competitive advantage of a company in thelong-run. The questions how to set a mission, vision and objectives to prepare annual reports in the field of sustainability will be discussed. Furthermore, motives as to why companies have to consider local and global perspective when setting SD objectives and the problem of conflicts in SD goals will be determined.
Sustainable development in marketing strategy
Sustainable development in marketing strategy
(Sustainable development in marketing strategy)
- Author(s):Atanaska Reshetkova
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Psychology, Business Economy / Management, Energy and Environmental Studies, Sociology, Marketing / Advertising, Business Ethics
- Page Range:83-95
- No. of Pages:13
- Keywords:customer value;sustainable development;sustainability marketing;marketing;consumer's behaviour;
- Summary/Abstract:Marketing strategy is an important part of every business strategy because it is crucial in attaining marketing goals and to grant the overall success of a company. Broadly speaking, marketing strategy allows to define the long-term marketing goals of a firm and what needs to be done in order to achieve these goals. This provides a set of planned steps to bring the marketing mix into the desired state to achieve the overall business goal. In this sense, the marketing strategy is never created independently based on the corporate level strategy. Marketing management has evolved over the past decade to become customer-cantered, and it continues to change along with consumers. It is not surprising that the concept of sustainable development (SD) has left its footprints on marketing strategy, as today it has strong impact on the consumer’s mind and behaviour. Managers face the challenge of incorporating the main dimensions of sustainability into the marketing strategy—environmental, social and economic aspects. The main goal of this chapter is to explain how SD is integrated with marketing.
Sustainable development and market research
Sustainable development and market research
(Sustainable development and market research)
- Author(s):Iwona Olejnik, Magdalena Stefańska
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Economy, Business Economy / Management, Energy and Environmental Studies, Marketing / Advertising, Business Ethics
- Page Range:97-110
- No. of Pages:14
- Keywords:ethics in market research;market research;sustainable development;
- Summary/Abstract:The issue of sustainable development is the subject of market research conducted by many institutions. Companies manufacturing products and providing services, institutions dealing with environmental or consumer protection, scientists and students, carry out many research projects related, for example, to sustainable, responsible consumption and production patterns, ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being of all age groups, and much, much more. The main goal of the chapter is to present how to use secondary data for analysis and how to prepare, conduct, analyse and interpret the results of primary research in the area of sustainable development (SD). There are many challenges facing researches. For that reason, it is necessary to discuss some of its ethical issues. The structure of the chapter covers 3 topics:1) research in SD based on secondary resources;2) research in SD based on primary resources;3) SD in market research—ethical aspects.
Sustainability in human resource management
Sustainability in human resource management
(Sustainability in human resource management)
- Author(s):Magdalena Stefańska
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Economy, Business Economy / Management, Energy and Environmental Studies, Marketing / Advertising, Human Resources in Economy, Business Ethics
- Page Range:125-134
- No. of Pages:13
- Keywords:human resource management;sustainability;sustainable human resource management;human resource;
- Summary/Abstract:The concept of sustainability is referred to the basic functions of human resources (HR)—recruitment, motivation, assessment and control. They should embrace sustainability, not just for organisational effectiveness and long-term economic benefits, but also for ethical reasons. Owing to SHRM, the awareness and behaviour of the whole organisation may strongly express SD goals inplanning and implementing the whole corporate strategy. Frequently, the term ‘sustainable practices’ in SHRM is congruent with CSR. The main goal of the chapter is to explain how Sustainable Development Goals can be implemented in human resource management (HRM) and translated into sustainable human resource management (SHRM).
Sustainable development in accounting
Sustainable development in accounting
(Sustainable development in accounting)
- Author(s):Marzena Remlein
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Economy, Business Economy / Management, Energy and Environmental Studies, Accounting - Business Administration, Business Ethics, EU-Legislation
- Page Range:125-134
- No. of Pages:10
- Keywords:CSR reporting standards;integrated report;non-financial reporting;social responsibility accounting;sustainability accounting;EU legislation;
- Summary/Abstract:The purpose of this chapter is to present and discuss the essence and importance of accounting in the concept of sustainable development. Considerations are particularly focused on reporting CSR issues. The growing importance of the idea of sustainable development and the concept of Corporate Social Responsibility that arose on its basis, gave rise to the need for accounting systems to develop solutions enabling the provision of information on the methods and results of implementing these concepts in entities operating on the market. The interest in accounting with regard to the area of sustainable development has contributed to the development of vocabulary related to measurement, calculation, disclosure, reporting and verification of information on the activities of units for sustainable development. Reporting on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is still largely voluntary and non-standardised. However, there are various international organisations that develop frameworks and voluntary standards for non-financial reporting, the so-called Social Reporting Standards. The most important EU legislative initiative in the field of disclosure concerning environmental, social and corporate governance information is Directive 2014/95/EU of the European Parliament and Council from 22 October 2014 amending Directive 2013/34/EU as regards disclosure of non-financial and diversity in formation by certain large undertakings and groups. The combination of financial information (financial statements) with non-financial information relating to the environment, society and corporate governance is included in the integrated report. In Poland, the requirement to present non-financial information related to CSR was introduced by the Accounting Act. Polish companies should prepare a separate report—“Statement on nonfinancial information”. In 2017, the Polish Standard of Non-Financial Information (SIN, 2017) was published to help enterprises fulfil their obligations under the EU Directive.
Social responsibility and quality: issues of competitiveness and sustainable development
Social responsibility and quality: issues of competitiveness and sustainable development
(Social responsibility and quality: issues of competitiveness and sustainable development)
- Author(s):Krisztián Kis
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Economy, Business Economy / Management, Energy and Environmental Studies, Marketing / Advertising, Business Ethics
- Page Range:135-150
- No. of Pages:16
- Keywords:competitiveness;Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR);innovation;quality;sustainable development;
- Summary/Abstract:It can be stated that quality is a multifaceted concept, and it makes the difference between any perceivable or conceivable entities visible. The meaning of quality has greatly changed over the years, its content has expanded and quality has become the most important single factor for success. Therefore, it is no exaggeration to say that “quality means business”. However, quality, as it will be seen, means much more than that. Corporate Social Responsibility and the service of Sustainable Development Goals have become part of organisational quality. Nonetheless, without innovation, there is no quality or competitiveness, thus, there is no business either. This is the 21st century, which, according to Joseph M. Juran, will be the century of quality. It is important to note that companies are not just economic units or merely market participants, but also social factors and entities influencing the environment. For this reason, compliance with social norms and ethical expectations is also an important aspect of their operation. To meet the expected and latent needs of customers and users, and also the requirements of society as well as the natural environment in a way that all stakeholders are equally satisfied is a fundamental issue for companies,today and even more so in the future. The main purpose of this chapter is to discuss how quality should be understood, and what the relationships between the issues involved are. In the chapter, it is argued that quality, Corporate Social Responsibility, innovation, competitiveness and sustainable development are interrelated concepts. Therefore, it is the further purpose of this chapter to discuss how social responsibility and innovation affect quality, and how quality contributes to competitiveness and sustainable development. In this chapter, quality issues are dealt with from different aspects. In the first part, the concept of quality is presented, which deals with the evolving notion of quality and the future of quality inlight of social responsibility. In the second part, complexity issues and emergences are introduced,while quality is discussed as an emergent property, and the role played by social responsibility and environmental concerns in competitiveness and sustainable development are explained, and furthermore, innovation from quality and responsibility perspectives are examined.
Sustainable development in production-operations management
Sustainable development in production-operations management
(Sustainable development in production-operations management)
- Author(s):Dariusz Nowak
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Economy, Business Economy / Management, Energy and Environmental Studies, Business Ethics
- Page Range:151-171
- No. of Pages:21
- Keywords:industry;production;production methods;sustainable production;waste;waste reduction;
- Summary/Abstract:Production-operation activity is one of the most important functions of modern enterprises. It requires the involvement of various types of resources, such as: raw materials, materials, machines, capital, information, energy, human factor and others, which are used in production processes. However, many problems arise in operational activity. They concern such aspects as: waste of resources or their wasteful use, mismanagement, excessive energy consumption, environmental pollution, exploitation of human potential, etc. It is also emphasized that these problems are reflected both in the growing costs of a company’s activities and in climate change. However, more and more companies are becoming aware of these dangers and are implementing new products, new technologies and processes that use less raw materials and energy, being more environmentally-friendly. The purpose of implementing new solutions of production is to improve labour mobility, optimise the use of raw materials and resources, reduce costs, and to increase efficiency, productivity, etc. Taking the impact of operating activities on the environment into account, the purpose of this chapter is to present selected production methods from their cognitive aspects, the assumptions of which are consistent with the issues of sustainable development. In particular, focus was placed on the zero-waste concept, which allows to eliminate waste in all links of the value chain. Lean manufacturing and six sigma, which help enterprises fight waste in their activity, as well as circular production related to the implementation of closed-loop production principles in practice, are discussed. In addition, the life-cycle product design and recycling, as well as green and environment-conscious manufacturing are presented. The first of them assumes that the possibility of recycling should be considered in the process of designing products and services. The second one should be identified with a modern and systemic way of managing enterprises, taking all environmental aspects into account by all departments.
Marketing campaigns and sustainability issues
Marketing campaigns and sustainability issues
(Marketing campaigns and sustainability issues)
- Author(s):Atanaska Reshetkova
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Economy, Business Economy / Management, Energy and Environmental Studies, Marketing / Advertising, Business Ethics
- Page Range:175-179
- No. of Pages:5
- Keywords:marketing;retail sector;sustainability;
- Summary/Abstract:The concept of sustainable development has left its footprints on marketing strategy and, today, it has strong impact on the consumer’s mind and behaviour. Globally, consumers are focusing their preferences towards products and brands implementing different innovations to promote sustainability. Marketing managers face the challenge of incorporating the main dimensions of sustainability—environmental, social, and economic, into their strategies. These cases are intended to encourage critical thinking of readers regarding issues related to sustainability marketing strategies and campaigns.
Consumption as the subject of market research
Consumption as the subject of market research
(Consumption as the subject of market research)
- Author(s):Iwona Olejnik, Magdalena Stefańska
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Economy, Business Economy / Management, Energy and Environmental Studies, Marketing / Advertising, Business Ethics
- Page Range:181-186
- No. of Pages:6
- Keywords:cigarettes consumption;garbology;market research;sustainable consumption;
- Summary/Abstract:One of the most important areas of market research is on consumer behaviour and attitudes regarding various aspects of sustainable consumption. Consumer behaviour is understood as activities related to the entire consumption cycle of products from various sectors, which allow the consumer to function and achieve personal goals. They, at the same time, also they allow to achieve satisfaction and well-being, taking short- and long-term effects as well as individual and social consequences into account (Antonides & van Raaij, 1999). Within the context of the cited definition, a survey of household rubbish may be very interesting and useful. Such research is not of a declarative nature, but is based on products consumed actually. They can provide extensive information on consumption trends, including, for example, the amount and type of products consumed or food waste. Another example of market research in the context of sustainable consumption is research on products harmful to health, e.g. cigarettes. The main goal of the chapter is to present 2 unusual examples of market research conducted by various entities: journalists and a research agency. Therefore, the structure of the chapter covers two examples: 1. Garbology as an example of market research in SD—how to learn more about consumers and consumption. 2. Cigarette consumption.
Corporate Responsibility towards employees – Raben Group
Corporate Responsibility towards employees – Raben Group
(Corporate Responsibility towards employees – Raben Group)
- Author(s):Natalia Jankowska
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Economy, Business Economy / Management, Energy and Environmental Studies, Marketing / Advertising, Human Resources in Economy, Business Ethics
- Page Range:187-192
- No. of Pages:6
- Summary/Abstract:Human capital management in an organisation is one of the key areas of company success and its competitive advantage, particularly in a service company such as Raben (Zając, 2014). As an entity operating in the Transport Forwarding Logistics (TFL) sector, its decisions in the area of human resources management depend on industry factors. This is evidenced, among others, by the structure of employees. The aim of this case study is: first, to draw attention to the problems that companies operating in specific sectors may face. The second goal is to identify their ability to implement the concept of a company responsible to employees. The company strives to take the goals set by the United Nations (SDGs) into account. These include taking care of appropriate employment structure, ensuring employee development, ensuring diversity, caring for work-life balance as well as safety in the workplace, and building relations with external stakeholders. The specificity of the industry in which the presented company operates makes it pursue a number of Sustainable Development Goals—both with regard to employees and in terms of environmental protection. Some need to be adapted accordingly.
Remote work at international enterprises
Remote work at international enterprises
(Remote work at international enterprises)
- Author(s):Gabriel Grabowski
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Economy, Psychology, Business Economy / Management, Energy and Environmental Studies, Sociology, Labor relations, International relations/trade, Marketing / Advertising, Human Resources in Economy, Business Ethics, Globalization
- Page Range:193-198
- No. of Pages:6
- Keywords:pandemic threat;plant relocation;remote work;work-life balance;
- Summary/Abstract:The aim of the chapter is to initiate discussion on the positive and negative aspects of remote work in Polish branches of international enterprises. In 3 short case studies presented in the text, situations that made organizations’ managements allow their employees work remotely are discussed. In each case, different reasons initiated a decision: plant relocation, hiring a specialist living far from the plant and a threat of pandemic. There is a common opinion on employees in many countries (including Poland) that they are not flexible enough when searching for a job, they expect it to be “round the corner”, whilst it is not only them but also employers that should present a more flexible approach, also in terms of remote working. On the other hand, it must be stressed that such solutions have both advantages and disadvantages and sometimes cannot be available for certain roles in an organisation.
Product life-cycle – problems of product planned obsolescence and fast fashion
Product life-cycle – problems of product planned obsolescence and fast fashion
(Product life-cycle – problems of product planned obsolescence and fast fashion)
- Author(s):Magdalena Stefańska
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Economy, Business Economy / Management, Energy and Environmental Studies, Cultural Anthropology / Ethnology, Marketing / Advertising, Business Ethics
- Page Range:199-208
- No. of Pages:10
- Keywords:fast fashion;greenwashing;planned product obsolescence;product life cycle;sustainability;
- Summary/Abstract:Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is an idea according to which enterprises take responsibility for the effects of their activities and undertake actions aimed at reducing negative effects and improving quality of life of a broadly understood group of stakeholders. In turn, marketing is a concept according to which all activities of enterprises are undertaken with the intention of satisfying consumer needs in the best possible way—by creating and modifying products and services. It would seem that they both—CSR and marketing, share the same goal—providing value to consumers in order to improve their quality of life. However, it can be seen that there is a whole scope of activities under the marketing instruments that primarily serve only to intensify sales. This would not raise any major objections if not for the fact that the occurrence of the demand for restitution is accelerated due to the planned shortening of the product life-cycle. This is in contradiction with the idea of CSR and sustainable development as well as sustainable consumption. So why is it a practice that does not cause widespread outrage and resistance from buyers? And how should it be dealt with? Two widely implemented strategies of manufacturers and retailers are described in that chapter: the 1st one is planned product obsolescence, the second—fast fashion. Retail chains follow the fast fashion trend—offering customers short, frequently changing product lines. However, seeing the effects of this type of strategies, it is possible to undertake a number of activities aimed at reducing the negative effects of these actions.
Social responsibility and quality in practice
Social responsibility and quality in practice
(Social responsibility and quality in practice)
- Author(s):Krisztián Kis
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Economy, Business Economy / Management, Energy and Environmental Studies, Marketing / Advertising, Human Resources in Economy, Business Ethics
- Page Range:211-217
- No. of Pages:7
- Keywords:certification;commitment;confidence;consumer awareness;dining;hygiene;responsibility;sustainability criteria;
- Summary/Abstract:In this chapter, two excellent examples from Hungary are presented as cases related to the issues discussed in Chapter 2.6, titled Social responsibility and quality: issues of competitiveness and sustainable development. One case is about a Sustainable restaurant initiative introduced by the Heroes of Responsible Dining Foundation, while the other concerns the Safe place certification developed by the CertUnion certification and consulting company. Both cases are examples for presenting responsibility, quality and innovation from different approaches while contributing to both competitiveness and sustainable development.
Sustainable development in the non-governmental organisation sector
Sustainable development in the non-governmental organisation sector
(Sustainable development in the non-governmental organisation sector)
- Author(s):Agnieszka Chomiuk
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Economy, Business Economy / Management, Energy and Environmental Studies, Civil Society, Labor relations, Environmental and Energy policy, Cultural Anthropology / Ethnology, Social development, Sociology of the arts, business, education, Economic development, Environmental interactions, Marketing / Advertising, Social Norms / Social Control, Human Resources in Economy, Business Ethics
- Page Range:219-226
- No. of Pages:8
- Keywords:Housing First method;homelessness crisis;social capital;social cooperative;social enterprise;
- Summary/Abstract:The described project assumes the development of a new method for solving the problem of homelessness, in particular, with regard to the field of supporting people in an exceptionally difficult situation or those suffering from mental disorders and/or addictions to achieve independence and overcome problems. The aforementioned project is the first attempt at implementing this method in Poland. The basic assumption of the method is to solve the main problem of a person in the homelessness crisis, which is the lack of housing, and only then to provide support in solving other problems. The aim of the chapter is to give rise to discussion on the innovative solutions implemented by one of the local government to remedy the problems of homeless people. The issue is based on SDGs. The second described case study is the “Safe Future of People with Intellectual Disability”—implemented by the Polish Association for People with Intellectual Disability—reflecting the tested model based on support circles, i.e. social support networks in order to empower people with intellectual disabilities. The main objective of the “Safe Future” model is to develop and implement solutions that ensure legal, financial and social security of people with intellectual disabilities in situations where they have lost the support of the family. The concept of the support circles tested in this model is based on built networks of connections rooted in the social capital generated among the local community. The last example of sustainable development in the non-governmental sector is Social Cooperative Sunny Hill—as a social enterprise it is a unique entity on the market. It conducts economic activity, the main goal of which is not profit, but social and professional re-integration of people at risk of social exclusion. Contrary to a traditional enterprises, it does not distribute the profit among shareholders, but allocates it to social purposes.
Social supermarkets as a solution to food waste and issues of poverty
Social supermarkets as a solution to food waste and issues of poverty
(Social supermarkets as a solution to food waste and issues of poverty)
- Author(s):Blaženka Knežević
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Economy, Business Economy / Management, Energy and Environmental Studies, Marketing / Advertising, Human Resources in Economy, Business Ethics
- Page Range:227-235
- No. of Pages:9
- Keywords:food waste;poverty;social supermarkets;
- Summary/Abstract:The main objective of this chapter is to present and discuss a possible solution to food waste as a problem occurring in traditional food supply chains, on the one hand, due to food overproduction, and on the other, poverty as a result of economic and pandemic crisis in Europe. The structure of the chapter covers two areas: 1. Food waste as a problem in food supply chains. 2. Reduction of poverty by implementing social supermarkets as new players in the food supply chain.
Why do consumers fail to follow waste segregation rules? What would motivate them to obey the regulations?
Why do consumers fail to follow waste segregation rules? What would motivate them to obey the regulations?
(Why do consumers fail to follow waste segregation rules? What would motivate them to obey the regulations?)
- Author(s):Magdalena Stefańska, Gabriel Grabowski
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Economy, Education, Business Economy / Management, Energy and Environmental Studies, Sociology, Cultural Anthropology / Ethnology, Social development, Marketing / Advertising, Business Ethics
- Page Range:237-241
- No. of Pages:5
- Keywords:households behaviour;selective waste collection;waste segregation;
- Summary/Abstract:Most of empirical literature on participation in and choice of recycling at the household level has been focused on factors determining the direct cost for households engaging in recycling efforts (Czajkowski, Kądziela, & Hanley 2012; Huhtala, 2010, Jenkins, Martinez, Palmer, & Podolsky,2003). Researchers noticed mixed findings in the literature on the significance of waste collection fees for recycling efforts. There is also a question as whether household recycling efforts represent a social cost, which should be taken into account in cost-benefit analyses of alternative waste treatment systems. Some argue that it should not be calculated, since recycling efforts are, to a large extent, voluntary. But on the other hand, households devote time to segregation, which is, in fact, an alternative cost (Bruvoll & Nyborg, 2002). One of the barriers of effective segregation seems to be a low level of awareness on recycling and segregation issues among households. That was also noticed in research conducted by Omran, Mahmood, Abdul Aziz and Robinson (2009). The aim of this case study is to recognise why citizens’ knowledge on waste segregation rules is not sufficient enough. Despite research results confirming rather limited consumer skills related to the subject, efficient methods to make people increase their awareness of what correct selective waste collection is, seem to remain still undiscovered. The students’ task is both to identify why mistakes in waste segregation are made, as well as to propose ways of helping citizens avoid them.
Circular economy in the waste management sector
Circular economy in the waste management sector
(Circular economy in the waste management sector)
- Author(s):Gabriel Grabowski
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Economy, Business Economy / Management, Energy and Environmental Studies, Marketing / Advertising, Business Ethics
- Page Range:243-250
- No. of Pages:8
- Keywords:circular economy (CE);Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR);recycling;selective waste collection;waste segregation;waste management;
- Summary/Abstract:The growing population and rising standards of living lead to an increase of the consumption of many goods. Reducing municipal waste which is created in that process can result in a wide range of environmental, economic, and social benefits, such as reducing pollution in water and soil, greenhouse gas emissions and loss of valuable materials. The concept to solve this problem of municipal waste due to increased consumption can be found, among others, in circular economy (CE). Circular economy can be defined as “an economic system that is based on business models which replace the ‘end-of-life’ concept with reducing, alternatively reusing, recycling and recovering materials in production/distribution and consumption processes to accomplish sustainable development” (Kirchherr, Reike, & Hekkert, 2017). A current trend in developed countries is closing the loop, moving from the concept of “end-of-pipe” waste management towards more holistic resource management (Wilson, 2007). Implementing the circular economy approach through waste management systems can pose multiple challenges while providing incentives to improve waste management infrastructure. However, this requires investments and may be perceived by many people as cost, not investment in future generations and their standard of living.The aim of this chapter is to initiate discussion on the positive aspects and barriers of circular economy development in the Polish waste management sector. In the case study described in the text, the roles of citizens, public institutions as well as enterprises are shown in selective waste collection processes as an important element of circular economy. In Poland, awareness of waste segregation and the importance of using recycled materials is not well-developed compared to many other EU countries, although this situation is beginning to gradually improve.
Sustainability in renewable energy businesses
Sustainability in renewable energy businesses
(Sustainability in renewable energy businesses)
- Author(s):Gabriel Grabowski
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics, Economy, Business Economy / Management, Energy and Environmental Studies, Environmental and Energy policy, Marketing / Advertising, Business Ethics
- Page Range:251-256
- No. of Pages:6
- Keywords:renewable energy sources (RES);solar energy;
- Summary/Abstract:The sustainable development goal 7 (affordable and clean energy) seeks to ensure that energy is clean, affordable, available and accessible to all (SD Goals, https://unstats.un.org/sdgs/indicators). Replacing fossil fuel-based energy sources with renewable ones, which include: bioenergy, direct solar energy, geothermal energy, hydropower, wind and ocean energy (tide and wave), would gradually help the world achieve the idea of sustainability. Renewable energy technologies provide an excellent opportunity for mitigation of greenhouse gas emission and reduce global warming through substituting conventional energy sources (Panwar, Kaushik, & Kothari, 2011; Owusu& Asumadu-Sarkodie, 2016). Nevertheless, investment costs, as well as political environment andmarket conditions, have become barriers preventing countries from full utilisation of the potential to improve the quality of air or water. The aim of the chapter is to initiate discussion on the importance of renewable energy as wellas its environmental and society-related health aspects. Two short case studies presented in the text allow to describe projects concerning solar installations. In the first case, it is educational institution investing in thermal solar panel systems to supply heat for domestic hot water. The results of research conducted by Filho et al. (2019) on a small sample of universities from around the world indicate that in more than half of them, only a small share of energy consumption comes from renewable sources, whilst the European Union policy has identified promotion of energy efficiency in buildings, including educational ones, as a key objective of its energy and climate policy (EPBD Recast, 2010). In the second case study, thoughts on photovoltaic systems installed to supply buildings with electricity are contained and the problem of public resource support forms for that purpose are discussed.
Lights and shadows of Airbnb and all-inclusive vacations: How to make them more sustainable? – tourist sector
Lights and shadows of Airbnb and all-inclusive vacations: How to make them more sustainable? – tourist sector
(Lights and shadows of Airbnb and all-inclusive vacations: How to make them more sustainable? – tourist sector)
- Author(s):Magdalena Stefańska, Iwona Olejnik
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics, Economy, Business Economy / Management, Energy and Environmental Studies, Environmental and Energy policy, Cultural Anthropology / Ethnology, Human Ecology, Environmental interactions, Marketing / Advertising, Tourism, Business Ethics, Globalization
- Page Range:257-267
- No. of Pages:11
- Keywords:Airbnb;all inclusive tourism;sustainability;tourist sector;
- Summary/Abstract:One of the sustainable goals refers to the tourism services sector—by 2030, devise and implement policies to promote sustainable tourism that creates jobs and promotes local culture as well as products. Responsible tourism (RT) means to: – minimise the negative impact on the economic, environmental and social sphere (3P model); – generate greater economic benefits for local communities; – support the welfare of host communities; – improve working conditions and access to the tourism industry; – engage local residents in making decisions that will have influence on their lives, surroundings and possibilities; – support the preservation of heritage in the sphere of nature and culture for maintaining diversity; – provide tourists with new experiences through closer and more meaningful contact with local culture and people. Below, of the following forms of tourist services are discussed—all-inclusive vacations and Airbnb. The goal is to invite readers to take part in the discussion on those popular forms of spending leisure time—how to make them—if possible—more sustainable.