Strategies and core motivations for implementing sustainable development goals: Lessons from Portugal’s biggest five companies

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting-edge research and case studies.

Design/methodology/approach

This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context.

Findings

This research paper analyzes the SDG implementation strategies of five large companies in Portugal. A strategic and operational focus was favored by the respondents for SDG implementation over a normative focus. Three companies had an ethical rationale as their foremost motivation, while the other two cited a predominant contextual motivation. All five companies disclosed some ethical motivations for integrating SDGs. The main SDG strategy motivations did impact the management level at which SDG integration is driven, but these motivations didn't impact the type of integration. SDGs act as a compass for value-adding action, and are a source of trust-building relationships with the public.

Originality/value

The briefing saves busy executives, strategists and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy-to-digest format.

Citation

(2020), "Strategies and core motivations for implementing sustainable development goals: Lessons from Portugal’s biggest five companies", Strategic Direction, Vol. 36 No. 11, pp. 47-49. https://doi.org/10.1108/SD-08-2020-0147