Thesis title: Equilibrio tra pressioni economiche, sociali e ambientali: una visione paradossale per la sostenibilità
Purpose. Companies, shaped by norms, values, and regulations, must adopt integrated sustainability strategies to effectively navigate institutional pressures (Gao et al., 2019). However, sustainability management involves complex tensions among economic, social, and environmental objectives, which often conflict (Hahn et al., 2010; Phipps et al., 2013; Van der Byl & Slawinski, 2015). This research explores these tensions through a systemic perspective, integrating Paradox Theory and Institutional Theory. The objective is to understand how companies can balance institutional demands and conflicting sustainability goals while embedding long-term sustainability strategies.
Methodology. This research employs a qualitative approach based on two case studies (Yin, 2018) and utilizes interventionist research (Lukka & Wouters, 2022), which entails active researcher involvement to drive tangible changes within the studied context (Nickelsen, 2009). In the first case, action research (Cohen et al., 2017) was applied to embed ESG principles into corporate governance. In the second, constructive research (Jönsson & Lukka, 2007; Lukka, 2005) was used to develop a management tool based on the SDGs of the 2030 Agenda, supporting strategic decision-making.
Findings. The research results highlighted two innovative tools useful for addressing the tensions between economic, social, and environmental objectives by adopting a systemic approach and paradoxical view. The first case study explored how companies can integrate ESG principles into corporate governance, referring to international guidelines (OECD, 2023; WEF, 2020). An analysis process was presented that considered economic, environmental, and social pressures, as well as internal viewpoints of business managers and external views from strategic stakeholders. This process led to the identification of a long-term sustainability strategy and the establishment of an integrated ESG governance system, which can improve internal cohesion and overall sustainability management. The second case study developed an operational tool based on the 17 SDGs that allows companies to assess their current position and identify critical areas to focus on, defining concrete actions and measurable indicators over time. The developed tool helps management define long-term strategies aligned with the SDGs, continuously monitor and improve sustainability performance, manage stakeholder needs, and ensure compliance with current regulations.
Theoretical and managerial contributions. The research provides important contributions both theoretically and practically.
Theoretically, the research enriches the discussion on the intersection of Paradox Theory and Institutional Theory by applying these concepts to sustainability challenges and managing sustainability tensions (Carmine & De Marchi, 2023; Ergene et al., 2020; Schad & Bansal, 2018; Smith & Tracey, 2016). It introduces a systemic and strategic perspective, overcoming fragmented approaches to sustainability (Van der Byl & Slawinski, 2015). Additionally, it provides new tools to understand and address tensions between economic, environmental, and social performance (Slawinski & Bansal, 2015).
From a managerial perspective, this research provides practical and actionable tools to help business managers integrate ESG and SDG principles into long-term sustainability strategies, ensuring alignment across all levels of the organization.
Limitations and future research. Despite the significant findings, the research has some limitations. The main limitation is the focus on only two business cases, which limits the generalizability of the results. Future studies could expand the number of companies analyzed, test the developed tools in different sectors, and further explore the role of institutional dynamics in positively or negatively influencing the adoption of sustainable strategies. Additionally, conducting longitudinal studies would be useful to assess the long-term impact of business strategies on their contribution to sustainability goals.
Originality. The research stands out for its innovative approach, integrating two complementary theories (Paradox Theory and Institutional Theory) to address sustainability challenges. The application of the paradoxical lens provides a dynamic and systemic view of institutional tensions, enabling the development of two practical tools capable of effectively managing the complexities and contradictions associated with sustainability.
Keywords: Corporate sustainability, Paradox Theory, Institutional Theory, Interventionist research