Organizational Sustainability Research Articles

Development of a holistic framework for sustainability measurement: a case study of the tea sector

Managing organisational sustainability is complex, with multiple aspects including decarbonisation, sustainable finance, management of material flows and waste, to reduce harmful impacts and integrate sustainable approaches into business strategy. To improve sustainability, organisations must measure and manage the impacts of operations on the environment and society. This empirical study featuring case studies in the UK and Sri Lanka, examines the economic, environmental and social activities of company operations in the tea sector to evaluate and compare sustainability performance. The Triple Bottom Line (TBL) approach is expanded through a holistic sustainability framework proposed in this study, to support organisational sustainability measurement. We propose a ‘7E’ sustainability model that measures activities across seven operational areas of the organisation to create an overall sustainability score for benchmarking that aids sustainability improvements with an interconnected approach. The model supports organisations to identify savings, explore greener materials and energy choices through detailed insights and allows for ranking and comparison of companies using a sustainability index. A mixed methods approach is used to provide an analysis that offers granularity and comparability for sustainability strategy. Best practices from case studies, insights arising from the analysis of company surveys, interviews and employee surveys provide useful information on sustainability performance and decarbonisation progress. This research demonstrates the use of the 7E model as a practical tool for managers and organisations to improve sustainability management.

The Mediating Impact of Organizational Innovation on the Relationship Between Fintech Innovations and Sustainability Performance

The paper explores the impact of digital payment systems, blockchain technology, and AI/machine learning on innovation and sustainability in financial organizations. As part of the analysis, the study has adopted an explanatory research design and has used SmartPLS in order to analyze the data collected from 230 professionals of different fields through a structured questionnaire. The results show positive effects of digital payment systems and blockchain technology on organizations’ innovations with the impact of digital payments being the most pronounced. Empirical results suggest that these technologies are important to improve sustainability performance, depending on measures of internal consistency and discriminant validity among the proposed constructs. Al, also machine learning, has the highest relevance with environmental sustainability, thereby underlining the importance and work of such measures. Based on the Resource-Based View (RBV) theory, the study also explains the need for the organization to assimilate these innovations to enhance the organizational operations, customer satisfaction, and compliance with the laws. The study highlights fintech’s potential to address environmental issues and enhance societal goals, but geographical limitations may obstruct its transportability.

Performance evaluation of the introduction of full sample traceability system within the specimen collection process.

To evaluate the efficacy, safety and efficiency performances related to the introduction of innovative traceability platforms and integrated blood collection systems, for the improvement of a total testing process, thus also assessing the economic and organizational sustainability of these innovative technologies. A mixed-method approach was utilized. A key-performance indicators dashboard was created based on a narrative literature review and expert consensus and was assessed through a real-life data collection from the University Hospital of Padova, Italy, comparing three scenarios over time(2013, 2016, 2019) with varying levels of technological integration. The economic and organizational sustainability was determined considering all the activities performed from the tube check-in to the validation of the results, with the integration of the management of the prevalent errors occurred during the process. The introduction of integrated venous blood collection and full sample traceability systems resulted in significant improvements in laboratory performance. Errors in samples collected in inappropriate tubes decreased by 42 %, mislabelled samples by 47 %, and samples with irregularities by 100 %. Economic analysis revealed a cost saving of 12.7 % per tube, equating to a total saving of 447,263.80 € over a 12-month period. Organizational efficiency improved with a reduction of 13,061.95 h in time spent on sample management, allowing for increased laboratory capacity and throughput. Results revealed the strategic relevance of introducing integrated venous blood collection and full sample traceability systems, within the Laboratory setting, with a real-life demonstration of TLA economic and organizational sustainability, generating an overall improvement of the process efficiency.

From Clinical to Non-clinical Outcomes in the Treatment of HIV: An Economic and Organizational Impact Assessment.

The aim of this study was to define the economic and organizational impacts related to a broader utilization of bictegravir/emtricitabine/alafenamide (BIC/FTC/TAF) in Italian clinical practice. A budget impact analysis-representing the evolution of the Italian National Healthcare Service (NHS) healthcare expenditure over 3years-was developed, considering the overall Italian population treated for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Model input variables were treatment history, therapeutic regimen, development of adverse events, achievement of an undetectable viral load and total direct healthcare costs. Besides the BIA, an organizational impact assessment was conducted to determine the impact on the use of healthcare resources, assessing the release of organizational hospital assets, focusing on the management of drug-related adverse events. Data were collected from scientific evidence, Italian national and regional legislations and healthcare professionals' reports. To verify the robustness of the economic and organizational impact assessment, sensitivity analyses were performed. Results demonstrate economic savings of about 26million euros in total health spending, assuming a higher penetration rate for BIC/FTC/TAF. This change in the current case mix would lead to a reduction in the specific costs related to adverse event management (0.9million euros; -2.09%) and in the medical management of patients (38million euros; -7.79%), with a positive impact on the achievement of virological control. From an organizational perspective, a wider use of BIC/FTC/TAF generates a reduction in the utilization of healthcare resources due to a decrease in adverse events and complications. The model estimated a 19.64% reduction in HIV-related inpatient days, which freed up healthcare professional time. Capable of improving both economic and organizational sustainability for the entire HIV care continuum, BIC/FTC/TAF is an efficient therapeutic strategy for people with HIV.

The impact of COVID-19 on the financial sustainability of the municipalities of the district of Braga

The financial sustainability of organizations, whether public or private, has become an increasingly relevant issue in the context of the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This study aims to present preliminary results on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the financial sustainability of municipalities and to analyze which contextual factors may determine this impact. Following a qualitative methodology, a documentary analysis was carried out of the management reports of the 14 municipalities belonging to the district of Braga, in the period between 2018 and 2021. The results show that the financial sustainability of the municipalities was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic crisis, particularly in terms of debt, which increased significantly during the pandemic, and the decrease in tax revenue. On the other hand, financial autonomy improved during the period in question, due to the transfers and capital subsidies obtained from the state to deal with the pandemic. These impacts were felt more acutely in small and medium-sized municipalities. Political competition also proved to be a variable with a significant influence on the financial sustainability of municipalities. The aim of this study is to understand the lessons learned during this period in order to apply them to possible future crises, supporting politicians and managers in managing their organizations in crisis contexts.

Scientific production on risks and financial instruments for commodity management

Introduction: Commodity management benefits from a variety of financial instruments and tools that allow companies to mitigate risks and optimize their operations. Among the most used are futures contracts, contracts for difference, risk management tools such as insurance and investment funds. The objective of this article is to analyze the scientific production on risks and financial instruments for the management of raw materials. Methodology: The research paradigm is mixed, through the combination of qualitative and quantitative methods. A bibliometric analysis was carried out which was complemented with a documentary review. The study was synthesized in three stages and was carried out in the Google Scholar, Scielo and SCOPUS databases, during the period from 1991 to 2024, without limitations in language. Results: The literature review shows an increase in the adoption of digital technologies to improve internal communication and employee engagement, with Brazil as a leader in the Latin American region. In addition, endomarketing is identified as a key element for attracting and retaining talent, especially in sectors with high competition and a shortage of specific skills. Likewise, its contribution to organizational sustainability is highlighted, focusing on the social dimension by promoting the well-being and development of employees. Conclusion: These findings reflect how endomarketing has been integrated into business strategies to align corporate objectives with the values ​​of social responsibility and job satisfaction, consolidating itself as an essential tool in improving productivity and long-term commitment.

Innovation and Sustainability in the Amazon with the Use of Blockchain

Objective: The general objective of this study is to model the implementation of a blockchain system for solid wastemanagement in a government agency. The specific objectives of the results are to identify the main challenges in implementing a blockchain system for solid waste management in Public Management (1); characterize the blockchain models identified in this investigation (2); and develop a blockchain system model for solid waste management in a government agency (3). Theoretical Framework: The Theory of New Public Management, discussed in Madan and Ashok (2022), is the basis of this study, considering the notes of these authors, who address the dominant paradigm in public administration. Method: This research has a qualitative or mixed approach, as it includes parametric elements based on architecture such as blockchain, supported by bibliographical research and documentary analysis. The bibliographical research was based on elements of an integrated solid waste management system, through a framework, as conceptualized in the specific topic of this study. The Content Analysis method was used to research documents and other textual or audiovisual databases on solid waste management and blockchain technology. This research method allowed us to extract relevant information from the data collected, organize it into thematic categories, and interpret it in light of the theoretical framework obtained. By applying Content Analysis, patterns, meanings, and nuances were identified that could enrich the understanding of the phenomenon studied, ensuring an in-depth and contextualized analysis. Results and Discussion: The scenario of research on solid waste management in Brazil is marked by significantchallenges that reflect the complexity of the country's socioeconomic and environmental context. According to Agência Brasil (2023), the generation of solid waste has increased alarmingly, with data from 2021 indicating that more than 80 million tons were produced, of which only 32.5% were correctly disposed of. Thisreality highlights the urgent need for effective and innovative public policies that address integrated waste management. Research Implications: The relevance of implementing a blockchain system in public governance is highlighted, considering the growing demand for innovative and sustainable solutions. Originality/Value: This study is of interest to government managers, academics involved in applied research onblockchain in waste management, politicians and other leaders committed to excellence in management, and other professionals committed to promising results in the relationship between innovation and sustainability in organizations.

Digital technologies and social sustainability in the digital transformation age: a systematic analysis and research agenda

Purpose This paper aims to systematically review the constructive effects of digital transformation (DT) on social sustainability, examining its impact across democracy and governance, social cohesion, quality of life, equality and diversity. It emphasizes the need for appropriate frameworks that incorporate DT strategies in organizational practices to improve social sustainability. Design/methodology/approach A systematic literature review was carried out through Web of Science and Scopus databases to identify the distinctive papers that explored the impact of DT on social sustainability. It analyzes how various digital technologies, like Internet of Things, cloud computing and mobile computing, can be strategically embedded in organizational practices to optimize social sustainability outcomes. Findings This study reveals that although DT significantly enhances operational capabilities and consumer experiences, its integration into social sustainability practices is often overlooked. It proposes a novel framework that aligns digital capabilities with sustainability goals, aiming to enrich organizational performance and societal welfare. This paper identifies dynamic capabilities as crucial for sustaining competitive advantage in a digitally transformed business landscape. Research limitations/implications The primary limitation is the reliance on secondary data, which may not fully capture the rapid advancements in DT. Future research should focus on empirical studies to validate the proposed framework and explore the dynamic capabilities required for integrating DT in social sustainability practices. Originality/value This study extends the discourse on DT by linking it explicitly with social sustainability, presenting a structured analysis that highlights the need for strategic integration of digital technologies within organizational sustainability practices. It fills a gap in the literature by proposing a comprehensive framework for organizations to follow, thereby contributing to the theoretical and practical understanding of DT’s role in enhancing social sustainability.

Green performance appraisal impact on organizational sustainability: exploring the role of green knowledge and behavior in Lebanese firms

Purpose This research aims to reveal the impact of Green Performance Appraisal (GPA) on Organizational Sustainability (OS) and to explore the effect of GPA on Employee Green Behavior (EGB). Moreover, it investigates the factors underlying the relationship between GPA, EGB and OS. Further, it intends to examine the role of Green Knowledge Usage (GKU) in the relationship between EGB and OS. Design/methodology/approach Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling technique, SPSS and the Smart PLS 4 Software were used to test the hypotheses and the data collected via a cross sectional online survey conducted among Lebanese firms registered in the local chamber of commerce. Findings The results show that GPA plays a significant role in enhancing EGB and in promoting OS. It proves also that EGB partially mediates the relationship between GPA and OS. Further, it reveals the moderating role of GKU in reinforcing the relationship between EGB and OS. Research limitations/implications Although the study has some limitations related to the limited sample targeted and the cross-sectional data used, the findings provide various managerial implications and help in enhancing OS. It also advances green human resources management practices theoretically and practically. Originality/value This research aims to fill the gaps observed in the literature and explores the impact of GPA on OS examining the mediating role of EGB and the moderating effect of GKU.

Exploring Business Morals in the Cutting-Edge Corporate World

In the modern corporate world, business ethics has become a critical factor influencing the sustainability and success of organizations. With the rise of globalization, technological advancements, and increasing demands for corporate accountability, companies face complex ethical challenges that require strategic navigation. This article explores the growing importance of business ethics, focusing on key challenges such as globalization, data privacy, diversity, and profit pressures. It further outlines the role of leadership, corporate social responsibility (CSR), and transparency in maintaining ethical standards. Through case studies and real-world examples, the article provides a framework for how businesses can navigate ethical dilemmas, balance profitability with social responsibility, and foster long-term trust with stakeholders. Keywords : Corporate Ethics, Sustainability, Social Responsibility, Transparency, Stakeholder Engagement, Corporate Governance, Ethical Leadership, Fair Trade, Diversity and Inclusion, Data Privacy, Artificial Intelligence Ethics, Consumer Protection, Environmental Stewardship, Profit vs. Purpose, Whistle blower Protections, Corporate Accountability, Supply Chain Ethics, Workplace Culture, Innovation Ethics, Regulatory Compliance

The Generation-Based Effects of the Fear of COVID-19 on Deluxe Hotel Employees’ Responses

Purpose: While the COVID-19 pandemic has presented challenges to many organizations, overcoming it has also provided an opportunity to refocus organizational sustainability. This study examined the relationship between the perceived fear of COVID-19 among deluxe hotel employees and their ages, psychological well-being, and turnover intent. It also tested the moderating effect of these employees’ sense of calling on the aforementioned relationship. Design/methodology/approach: The collected data were analyzed using Analysis MOment Structure (AMOS) and the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). The five hypotheses were validated using structural equation modeling and multi-group analysis. Findings: The results showed that the fear of COVID-19 was strong among young employees (Beta = −0.160) and that employees’ psychological well-being (Beta = −0.299) diminished as this fear grew. Psychological well-being negatively influenced turnover intent (Beta = −0.234). Finally, the fear of COVID-19 exerted a minimal effect on the psychological well-being of employees with a strong sense of calling.

Talent Measurement Model of Islamic Banking: Theoretical and Practice Perspectives

Talent measurement is a crucial component of talent management (TM). It involves the application of various measurement methodologies to assess the current and long-term potential, competencies, and contributions of employees in their roles. This study explores and integrates the theory of talent measurement from previous research with the practice of talent measurement model in Islamic banking. This study uses personal interview with the experts from selected Islamic banking in Indonesia, provides insights into how the traditional nine-box grid model is adapted within the context of Islamic banking, incorporating the principles of Maqāṣid al-Sharīʿah to ensure alignment with Islamic values. The findings suggest that integrating ethical dimensions into talent evaluation enhances fairness, employee engagement, and long-term organizational sustainability. Furthermore, the study highlights the importance of addressing talent risk factors and suggest strategies to improve talent retention in Islamic banking. This research offers valuable contribution to both theory and practice, proposing a more holistic and values-driven approach to talent management in the Islamic financial sector.

Linking theory and practice to advance sustainable healthcare: the development of maturity model version 1.0.

Climate change and increased awareness of planetary health have made reducing ecological footprints a priority for healthcare organizations. However, improving healthcare's environmental impact remains difficult. Numerous researchers argue these difficulties are caused by healthcare's environmental impact being multidimensional, influenced throughout the healthcare chain, and often has downstream consequences that are hard to identify or to measure. Even though existing research describes many successful approaches to reduce healthcare's environmental impact, a robust multidimensional framework to assess this impact is lacking. This research aims at developing a maturity model for sustainable healthcare that could be used for self-assessment by healthcare professionals to identify improvement actions and for sharing best practices in environmental sustainability. A design-oriented approach for maturity model development was combined with an expert panel and six case studies to develop, refine and expand the maturity model for environmentally sustainable healthcare. A maturity model was developed containing four domains: 'Governance', 'Organization Structures', 'Processes', and 'Outcomes and Control'. Applying the model in real-world environments demonstrated the model's understandability, ease of use, usefulness, practicality and ability to identify improvement actions for environmental sustainability in healthcare organizations. This study found that healthcare practitioners could apply the maturity model developed and tested in this study in several hours without training to help them gain valuable insights into the environment footprint of the healthcare setting they worked in. Systematically implementing the model developed in this study could help address the urgent need to mitigate the substantial environmental impact of healthcare. These implementations can help evaluate and improve the maturity model.

Organizational Sustainability Practices, Employee Engagement and Organizational Citizenship Behavior: An Employees’ Perspective on their Working Firm

Organizational Sustainability Practices, Employee Engagement and Organizational Citizenship Behavior: An Employees’ Perspective on their Working Firm

A DOMINAÇÃO NAS RELAÇÕES DE TRABALHO A PARTIR DA INDÚSTRIA 4.0

This article aims to conduct a bibliographical discussion on domination in labor relations based on Industry 4.0. The relevance of the topic is based on the complexity of union relations and the role of worker leadership in the creation of domination structures that are established to carry out the work process, which are essential for the sustainability of organizations. The theoretical option presents a conceptual approach to labor relations and Industry 4.0, pointing out the most significant concepts to support the study. As a methodology, this article involves qualitative, descriptive research, and a bibliographical review was chosen to allow the use of previously published material, serving as a contribution to the foundation of the studied topic. It was concluded that domination manifests itself in labor relations based on Industry 4.0, based on subcontracting focused on the process of flexibilization in work organizations, insecurity, vulnerability, low or no qualification labor, poverty, and increasingly suppressed rights.

Masa Depan Manajemen Hubungan Manusia: Tren, Pengaruh Teknologi, dan Strategi Adaptasi

This research examines future trends and developments in human relations management (HRM), particularly in the context of technology, workforce diversification, as well as the strategies that organizations must adopt to face these challenges. Using literature study methods, this research identifies major changes in HRM, such as the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in recruitment and performance management processes, as well as the increasing popularity of remote work post the COVID-19 pandemic. This research also highlights the ethical challenges that arise from the use of technology in HRM, including the potential for algorithmic bias and unfairness in decision making. The results of this research suggest strategies for sustainable employee skills development, creating an inclusive work culture, and ethical technology integration to support organizational sustainability in the future. This research makes an important contribution to the literature highlighting the long-term impact of technology adoption in HRM as well as offering practical recommendations for organizations in facing global change.

Work life balance and pro environmenal behavior on sustainability

This study investigates the impact of work-life balance (WLB) and pro-environmental behavior (PEB) on sustainability outcomes in Indonesia's manufacturing sector. As sustainability becomes increasingly important within industrial settings, understanding the role of human-centric factors like WLB and PEB can offer unique insights into achieving sustainable practices. Data were collected from 278 employees across the top four manufacturing companies in Indonesia. Using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) via LISREL, the study demonstrates that both WLB and PEB significantly contribute to perceived sustainability outcomes. The results indicate that employees who experience a healthy work-life balance are more likely to engage in behaviors that support environmental initiatives, ultimately enhancing organizational sustainability. These findings suggest that promoting a supportive work environment and encouraging eco-friendly behaviors can facilitate sustainable business practices. The study’s implications highlight the importance of integrating employee well-being into sustainability strategies within manufacturing industries, providing actionable recommendations for managers and policymakers aiming to foster sustainable development.

Reimagining sustainability: The power of AI and intellectual capital in shaping the future of tourism and hospitality organizations

This research investigates the effect of artificial intelligence (AI) on organizational sustainability (OS) and delves into how this relationship is mediated by various dimensions of intellectual capital (IC), namely human (HC), structural (SC), and relational capital (RC). Data were collected from employees of Saudi travel agencies, resulting in 1122 valid responses, which were analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The findings indicate that AI positively impacts OS as well as the three IC dimensions. Additionally, HC, SC, and RC have a positive influence on OS. The study also reveals that these dimensions partially mediate the relationship between AI and OS. This study advances the literature by clarifying how AI-enabled capabilities are translated into sustainable outcomes within the tourism and hospitality sectors. The findings offer valuable insights for industry professionals aiming to harness AI technologies for sustainable transformation. The study also offers strategic recommendations for tourism and hospitality organizations to invest in enhancing their IC, thereby optimizing the sustainability advantages of AI integration.

Strategic leadership and management within non-profit organizations: An in-depth review of practices contributing to sustainable impact

This study provides an in-depth review of strategic leadership and management practices within non-profit organizations (NPOs) and their contribution to sustainable impact. Employing a systematic literature review and content analysis, the research aims to explore the evolving landscape of strategic leadership, define the scope of leadership and management in achieving sustainable impact, and identify innovative management practices that enhance organizational sustainability. The methodology involved a comprehensive search across peer-reviewed journals, conference proceedings, and grey literature from 2013 to 2023, focusing on empirical evidence, theoretical frameworks, and case studies relevant to NPOs' strategic leadership and management. Key findings reveal that adaptive leadership, innovative management practices, stakeholder engagement, and technology integration are crucial for NPOs to navigate operational complexities, engage stakeholders effectively, and achieve mission-driven objectives. The study proposes strategic recommendations for NPOs to enhance their sustainable impact, including adopting adaptive leadership styles, fostering innovation, integrating technology, and building resilient organizational frameworks. The study underscores the importance of policy development to guide non-profit leaders towards best practices in strategic leadership and management. It also highlights future research directions, emphasizing the need to explore the impact of emerging technologies, globalization, and cross-cultural dynamics on NPOs. Conclusively, the research affirms that effective strategic leadership and management are indispensable for enhancing the sustainable impact of NPOs, advocating for continuous innovation and adaptability in the non-profit sector.

How the Nursing Practice Environment Influences Retention and Turnover Intention: An Umbrella Review Protocol

Background: Currently, there is a global shortage of nurses, which has a negative impact on health institutions, mainly on the quality of care provided. The quality of nursing care depends on several factors, including the nursing practice environment, which has been stated as a fundamental element for the successful functioning of health systems. Scientific evidence shows that favorable practice environments contribute to nurse retention, and unfavorable environments increase nurses’ turnover intention. Retaining nurses is essential to ensure the sustainability of healthcare organizations and the quality of nurse care. In the current shortage scenario, this issue has become even more significant. Objective: This review aims to identify systematic literature reviews that describe the characteristics of nursing practice environments that contribute to nurse retention or turnover intention in hospitals. Methods: The umbrella review will follow the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology, the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis reporting guidelines, and the Preferred Reporting Items for Overviews of Reviews guidelines. A search with indexed terms will be performed in various databases, and two reviewers will identify, select, and extract studies, while a third reviewer will resolve any disagreements. Results: This protocol provides a structured approach for conducting the review, and the initial searches have identified 440 articles, with no previous protocol or umbrella review identified, underscoring the importance of this research. Conclusions: This study will enhance the dissemination of scientific evidence regarding nursing practice environments, thereby contributing to an improved understanding of factors affecting nurse retention and turnover intention.