Level of Maturity in Sustainable Innovation Practices: an Application of the Eco-Mi Model in a Red Ceramics Company

Abstract

Objective: To identify the level of maturity with sustainable innovation practices of a company in the red ceramics segment in the state of Paraíba, according to the concept and application of the Eco-Mi model. Theoretical Framework: The thematic contextualization recalls the concepts of sustainable development, innovation, sustainability and sustainable innovations. In this sense, (BARBIERI et al., 2010) defends the importance of considering the understanding of sustainable innovation practices, fully incorporated into the company's strategic objectives. The better this relationship between sustainable development through sustainable innovation practices and company objectives is defined, the greater the likelihood of success. Method: This is a descriptive and exploratory study conducted in the form of a case study, using a descriptive statistics approach with quantitative data extracted by applying a questionnaire. The type of sampling is defined as non-probabilistic by intentionality. SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences) was used to analyze the data. Results and Discussion: The evolution of the level of maturity weighs up quantitative and qualitative aspects, since the author herself, who designed the Eco-Mi Model, warns that there are some limitations, mainly of a qualitative nature due to the participants' self-assessment, since the analysis requires knowledge of strategy, structure, resources and organizational culture. These limitations highlight promising directions for future research and for consolidating the model and spreading knowledge about eco-innovation. Based on the results obtained from the research, it is possible to conclude that it was possible to answer the research problem by showing that, among the 4 dimensions analyzed, the company moves through levels of maturity evolving between scale 2 and 5. The Strategy and Structure dimensions are not satisfactory, and the Resources and Culture dimensions are more satisfactory. In this case, the company needs to review its choices and practices of sustainable innovation, seeking greater homogeneity in the dimensions of the model used. The field of knowledge still offers ample scope for further research and consolidation of the Eco-Mi maturity model. Research Implications: The practical and theoretical implications of this research are discussed, providing insights into how the results can be applied to or influence actions in the field of sustainable innovation. These implications can cover the organizational areas of companies in the context of sustainable innovation practices. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature, as the topic of sustainability has incorporated the role of humans as equally responsible as industries, in a way that seeks to balance the relationship between human society (consumption and waste), natural resources, the current mode of production and the socio-economic system. The relevance and value of this research is evidenced by the results of the level of maturity perceived by the four dimensions studied: strategy, structure, resources and culture. The result reflects on the company's performance from the moment it characterizes in detail the levels of maturity according to the Eco-Mi model.