Sustainable Project Management: Revolution or Evolution?

Abstract

The integration of sustainability into business practices and organisational strategy requires a rethink as to the way in which operations are carried out. As projects and project management increasingly play an important role in business and society, the question is whether current project management definitions, methods, processes, practices and knowledge areas are fit for purpose in delivering sustainable outcomes. This paper will examine the impact of sustainability on project management methods, processes, practices and knowledge areas. For comparison, it will examine the impact of sustainable development methods, processes, practices and knowledge areas on projects. This comparison of evidence from literature and practice will identify the leavers at play that shape the current agenda and help develop a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by the discipline in attempting to move towards 'sustainable project management'. It will set out the key areas of focus for academics and practitioners alike, before evaluating whether an evolution of project management towards sustainable project management is possible, or if a more revolutionary approach is necessary.