Achieving sustainable development through organizational alignment: a case study of Aptiv

Abstract

Purpose: Sustainable development has become a critical goal for organizations worldwide, with an increasing focus on environmental, social, and economic responsibilities. Companies are now expected not only to achieve financial success but also to contribute positively to the well-being of society and the environment. In this context, Aptiv, a global technology company, stands out as a beacon of sustainable development. This article explores how Aptiv integrates sustainable practices into its operations, with a particular emphasis on Organizational Alignment and the Theory of Planned Behavior. By examining Aptiv's sustainability documentation, authors delve into how the company addresses various aspects of sustainable development and aligns with specific United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Design/methodology/approach: The research employs case study and company documents analysis to understand structural and perceptual aspects of Organizational Alignment in reaching SDGs. Findings: The findings suggest that aligning organizational structures with SDGs, coupled with a comprehensive understanding of planned behavior factors, can serve as a strategic approach for fostering successful sustainability initiatives within organizations. This dual approach addresses both the structural and behavioral aspects, offering a more holistic framework for achieving sustainable development objectives. Research limitations/implications: Research limitation lies in single source case study, suggesting the need for broader research encompassing a more extensive range of organizations. Future studies should consider both the size and the industry-specific characteristics of organizations to enhance the generalizability of findings. Practical implications: The case study serves as a blueprint, demonstrating how successful organizations strategically integrate sustainability practices to achieve tangible and impactful results. Originality/value: This paper contributes novelty by addressing a research gap through its focus on a limited number of case studies detailing specific organizations' successful implementation of SDGs. Its value lies in providing actionable insights and strategic guidance for organizations aiming to effectively integrate SDGs, particularly suitable for those seeking practical examples and success stories in the realm of sustainability initiatives. Keywords: Sustainable Development, Organizational Alignment, Theory of Planned Behavior. Category of the paper: Case study.