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DRIVERS FOR CORPORATE SUSTAINBILITY: AN EXAMINATION OF POLISH FIRMS



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DRIVERS FOR CORPORATE SUSTAINBILITY: AN EXAMINATION OF POLISH FIRMS

377.Maria Urbaniec



Abstract

Sustainable development is widely perceived as a key trend of global environmental policy and socio-economic development. From the microeconomic point of view, the concept of sustainable business development assumes that the company should strive to achieve broad benefits for all stakeholders, local communities and the environment, and not just care about its economic interests. Many companies are already undertaking a number of different actions associated with sustainable development, in order to promote greater environmental and social responsibility. There are a number of factors that influence the environmental and social responsibility of enterprises. This paper aims to examine the relevant influence factors for the implementation of corporate social responsibility in Polish companies. The research question is: what are the principal drivers for the implementation of sustainable development in Polish companies? The paper addresses key implications for corporate managers and other affected decision-makers. It concludes that corporate social responsibility is becoming increasingly important as an instrument for the implementation of sustainable development in Polish companies and contributes to environmental and social changes.


Key words: sustainable development, corporate sustainability, corporate social responsibility
JEL Code: M14, Q01, Q56

378.Introduction


Sustainable development is now a new trend of socio-economic and ecological development at the international level both in terms of macro- and microeconomics (Redclift, 2005, p. 213). It is considered to be the overarching principle of global environmental policy and development policy, taking into account economic, environmental and social issues. Sustainable development should be understood as a consciously shaped process requiring far-reaching changes in institutional structures, in technological progress and human consumption patterns and behavior, e.g. in energy-producing technologies, as well as in the distribution of products and services, while contributing to innovative economic, technological and structural solutions (Urbaniec, 2014). The growing importance of sustainability issues can be seen primarily in large companies that carry out various activities, e.g. implement social and environmental standards. An exemplary instrument is the concept of corporate social responsibility (CSR), which supports companies in the implementation of sustainable development.

This article aims to analyze the impact of corporate social responsibility on the implementation of sustainable development in Polish enterprises. On this basis it will be possible to identify which factors influence the integration of sustainable development in core business. Therefore, the importance of sustainable development and the possibility of its implementation in companies will be presented first. Subsequently, on the example of Polish enterprises, the reasons for CSR implementation with regard to its barriers and benefits will be identified.



BUSINESS INCUBATORS IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC: WELL SPENT MONEY? 5

1.Michal Andera – Martin Lukeš 5

2.Introduction 5

3.Theoretical background 6

4.Methods 7

5.Results 8

6.Conclusion 12

7.Acknowledgement: 12

8.References 12

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AS A TOOL FOR DIAGNOSTICS OF PERSONNEL COMPETENCES 14

9.Andrey Andrunik – Galina Ostapenko – Sergey Kosyakin 14

10.Introduction 14

11.1. The conceptual approach to competence management 14

12.2 2S – systems Model of Competences 16

13. 3 Aplied methods and techniques of diagnostics of personnel competences 19

14.Conclusion 21

15.Acknowledgment 22

16.References 22

ANALYSIS AND EVALUATION OF THE INFLUENCE OF A NON-HOMOGENEOUS CUSTOMER OF AN INTERNATIONAL COMPANY IN LINE WITH THE PROJECT MANAGEMENT 23

17.Stefan Bader – Milan Fekete – Jaroslav Huľvej 23

18.Introduction 23

19.1 Empirical research 24

20.2 Roles and behaviors of the project manager 24

21.Conclusion 28

22.References 28

SOCIAL BUSINESS: PUBLIC AND NON-PUBLIC PROVIDER OF SOCIAL SERVICES 30

23.Oľga Bočáková – Darina Kubíčková 30

24.Introduction 30

25.1 Problem Formulation 30

26.2 Empirical Research 31

27.2.5 Summary of research conclusions 35

28.Conclusion 35

29.References 36

THE USE OF ELECTRONIC TOOLS IN PUBLIC PROCUREMENT AS A FACTOR SPURRING DEMAND FOR INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS IN THE ECONOMY, ACCORDING TO CONTRACTORS 37

30.Arkadiusz Borowiec 37

31.Introduction 37

32.1 Innovations and electronic public procurement against empirical research 38

33.Conclusion 41

EMPIRICAL RESEARCH ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT, MARKET ORIENTATION AND SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED ENTERPRISES PERFORMANCE – SELECTED PRELIMINARY RESULTS 43

34.Krzysztof Brzostek 43

35.Introduction 43

36.1 Specification of the sector of small and medium-sized enterprises 43

37.2 Characteristic of conducted empirical research 44

38.3 Empirical dimensions of the relationship between knowledge management, market orientation and effective performance of SME enterprises 46

39.Conclusion 49

40.References 49

THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE INSTITUTIONAL CAPACITY MONITORING TOOLS IN THE STRATEGIC PLANNING OF THE INDUSTRIAL ENTERPRISES 51

41.Elena Bykova 51

42.Introduction 51

43.1 Literature review 52

44.2 The development of the institutional capacity monitoring tools 53

45.Conclusion 55

46.References 55

THE SELECTED MEASURES OF INNOVATION 57

47.Jozef Chajdiak - Mária Glatz Ďurechová – Branislav Mišota 57

48.Introduction 57

49.1 Goals setting and process solutions 58

50.2 Coefficients of innovation 59

51.2.1 Simple coefficients (rates) of innovation 59

52.Conclusion 63

53.References 64

EU FUNDING PROGRAMMES FORRESEARCH AND INNOVATION 65

54.Lorenzo Costantino 65

55.Introduction 65

56.1 EU Funding for Research, Innovation and Competitiveness 68

57.2 Key Principles of EU Funding Programmes 70

58.3 EU Funding Programmes for R&I 73

59.Conclusion 73

60.References 74

POLITICAL PARTIES AND SUPPORT OF BUSINESS IN SLOVAKIA IN 2016 75

61.Alexander Čemez 75

62.Introduction 75

63.1 Theoretical part 75

64.2 Analytical part 77

65.Conclusion 79

66.References 80

EVALUATION AND TREATMENT OF SELECTED RISKS IN THE SOLUTION MINING INDUSTRY 81

67.Peter C. G. Davids 81

68.Introduction 81

69.1 Literature review 82

70.2 Methodology of Research 84

71.3 Risk Management at the exemplary enterprise 85

72.Conclusion 89

73.References 90

INNOVATIONS IN PUBLISHING IN THE PERIOD OF DIGITALIZATION 91

74.Dana Dvořáková 91

75.Introduction 91

76.2 Sphere of publishing and digitalization in the 21st century 92

77.3 Changes in the forms of publishing 94

78.4 Trends in publishing in the 21st century 95

79.5 Case study of MM Publishing, Co.Ltd. 96

80.6 Advantages and disadvantages of digital publishing – view from experience 98

81.Conclusion 99

82.References 99

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN UNEMPLOYMENT AND ENTREPRENEURIAL ACTIVITY: EVIDENCE FOUND AMONG VISEGRAD COUNTRIES 101

83.Ondřej Dvouletý – Jan Mareš 101

84.Introduction 101

85.1 Data 102

86.2 Econometric analysis 103

87.Conclusion 105

88.Acknowledgment 106

89.References 106

WHAT DID SAP CHANGE? A MARKET SHAPING ANALYSIS 108

90.Burak Erkut 108

91.Introduction 108

92.1 The ERP Market 108

93.2 The Role of SAP 109

94.3 Economic Impacts 109

95.Conclusion 111

96.References 112

EXPERT SYSTEM FOR WAREHOUSE STOCK OPTIMIZATION 114

97.Radim Farana – Ivo Formánek – Bogdan Walek 114

98.1 Design of the expert system for prediction of sales 115

99.Conclusion 119

100.Acknowledgment 119

101.References 119

INNOVATIVE DIGITAL MARKETING OF SME HOTELS 121

102.Tamara Floričić 121

103.Introduction 121

104.Digital Marketing of SME hotels - Theory and Literature Review 121

105.2 Research, Findings and Discussion 125

106.Conclusion 128

107.References 129

INNOVATIONS IN THE INSURANCE MARKETING THROUGH SOCIAL MEDIA 131

108.Claudia Hilker 131

109.Introduction 131

110.1 Innovation in insurance marketing with social media 132

111.2 Objective, Research Question and Method 133

112.3 Case studies on innovations in insurance marketing 134

113.4 Summary of the main conclusions 138

114.References 140

DRIVERS OF SENIOR ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN VISEGRAD COUNTRIES 141

115.Marian Holienka – Zuzana Jancovicova – Zuzana Kovacicova 141

116.Introduction 141

117.1 Senior entrepreneurship and its importance 142

118.2 Material and methods 143

119.3 Results and discussion 145

120.Conclusion 147

121.Acknowledgment 147

122.References 147

INNOVATIVE MEASUREMENT OF SOCIAL VALUE BLENDING THE PUBLIC, PRIVATE AND THIRD SECTORS IN THE UK 149

123.Jaroslava Hrabětová – John M. Daly – Marie Dohnalová – Steven McCabe 149

124.Introduction 149

125.1 Innovative Measurement of Social Value: Methodology 150

126.2 Social Value Analyses Case Studies – Private, Public and third Sectors 152

127.Conclusion 154

128.Acknowledgment 155

129.References 155

EVALUATION OF INNOVATIVE POTENTIAL OF SMEs USING THE FUZZY LOGIC 157

130.Hana Janáková 157

131.Introduction 157

132.1 Evaluation of innovation potential 158

133.2. Measurement concept of fuzzy logic 161

134.Conclusion 164

135.References 164

CREATION OF START CITY IN LVIV AS A MODEL FOR REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT 166

136.Yuliia Kleban 166

137.Introduction 166

138.1 The Smart City Concept 166

139.2 The European model of the Smart City 168

140.3 The Smart Cities of Visegrad countries 169

141.4 The Lviv Smart City 172

142.Conclusion 173

143.Acknowledgment 174

144.References 174

ON THE ISSUE OF THE MODERN PARADIGM OF THE MARKET STABILITY OF AN ENTERPRISE 175

145.Tatyana Klimenko 175

146.Introduction 175

147.1. Method 176

148.2. Results 179

149.Conclusion 180

150.References 180

INNOVATIONS AND REGIONAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN RUSSIA 182

151.Elizaveta Kolchinskaya 182

152.1 Introduction 182

153.2 Role of innovation clusters in economical indicators of the Russian regions 183

154.3 Innovation infrastructure as a factor of development of processing industry 185

155.4 Discussion 189

156.References 189

USING DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES IN SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP 191

157.Vojtech Kollár – Peter Polakovič – Jana Gasperová 191

158.Introduction 191

159.1 Importance of education in the Information Society 191

160.Conclusion 197

161.References 197

THE TECHNOLOGY START-UP SCENE IN SLOVAKIA: NO WOMAN’S LAND? 199

162.Janka Kottulová - Ľudmila Mitková 199

163.Introduction 199

164.1 Women on the start-up scene in Slovakia: hardly visible and unexplored? 200

165.2 Start-up and women entrepreneurship support in Slovakia: parallel tracks divided by the wall? 203

166.Conclusion 204

167.References 204

CREATIVE APPROACH TO THE INNOVATIONS BASED ON THE PRODUCT BENCHMARKING RESULTS 206

168.Marcela Kovaľová – Zuzana Nogová 206

169.Introduction 206

170.1 Innovations, creativity and benchmarking – a theoretical framework 206

171.2 Creative approach to the innovations based on the product benchmarking results 208

172.Conclusion 212

173.References 212

ASSESSMENT OF THE DEGREE OF INVOLVEMENT IN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE COLLECTIVE ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY 214

174.Marina Krasnova - Marina Zemskova – Karina Nazvanova 214

175.Introduction 214

176.1 Research methodology 214

177.2 Model of studying the staff involvement in the general enterprise strategy 216

178.3 Research results 218

179.Conclusion 221

180.References 222

THE INTEGRATION FUNCTIONS OF HUMAN RESOURCES THROUGH REPOSITIONING FOR BUSINESS ADVANTAGE 223

181.Laurencia Krismadewi – Kristianus Oktriono 223

182.Introduction 223

183.1 Literature Review 224

184.2 Problem Statement 226

185.3 Conceptual Model 226

186.4 Research Approach and Proposition 227

187.5 Data Analysis and Findings 228

188.Conclusion 230

189.References 230

SUPPLY CHAIN COLLABORATION AS AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH OF WAREHOUSE MANAGEMENT: A CASE STUDY 232

190.Tomáš Kučera – Jaroslava Hyršlová 232

191.Introduction 232

192.1 Theoretical background and methodology 233

193.2 Case study: supply chain collaboration between supplier of logistic services and manufacturer of automotive parts 233

194.Conclusion 238

195.References 238

CSR AND SUSTAINABILITY REPORTING IN CR 240

196.Vilém Kunz – Štěpánka Hronová 240

197.1 CSR Concept 241

198.2 Communication of companies about CSR and its tools 241

199.3 Non-financial reporting 242

200.Research 243

201.Conclusion 245

202.Acknowledgment 246

203.References 246

INNOVATIONS IN MANAGEMENT OF SOCIAL ENTERPRISES 248

204.Katerina Legnerova – Marie Dohnalova 248

205.Introduction 248

206.1 Social Enterprise 249

207.2 Czech social enterprises 251

208.3 Management in social enterprises 252

209.Conclusion 253

210.References 253

INNOVATION IN SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT 255

211.Xenie Lukoszová – Lukáš Polanecký 255

212.Introduction 255

213.1 Research problem, requirements and methodology 255

214.2 Supply chain 256

215.3 Supply chain management 256

216.4 Innovation in supply chain management 257

217.Conclusion 261

218.Reference 262

THE STRUCTURE OF VENTURE CAPITAL RAISING BY COMPANIES IN POLAND AND CENTRAL AND EASTERN EUROPE: SELECTED ASPECTS 263

219.Joanna Małecka, Teresa Łuczka 263

220.Introduction 263

221.1 Criteria for selecting the capital structure of companies 264

222.2 Development of the private equity market in Poland and Central and Eastern Europe 265

223.3 Venture capital market in Poland and in Central and Eastern Europe 266

224.4 Company age as a possible determinant of financing source selection in light of the authors’ own research 270

225.Conclusion 272

COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF LEADERSHIP STYLES IN COMPANIES 274

226.Milan Maly 274

227.Introduction 274

228.1 Methodology 275

229.2 Statistical sample 278

230.3 Findings 279

231.Conclusion 280

232.References 281

THE INTEGRATED MANAGEMENT (IM): NEW APPROACH FOR THE ADAPTION OF THE EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS TO MEET THE LABOR MARKET NEEDS – AN INNOVATIOVE MODEL 283

233.Mohamed Meri MERI 283

234.Introduction 283

235.1 Theoretical part 284

236.2 The Practical Part 287

237.Conclusion and Recommendations 291

238.References: 292

SLOVAK BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT IN THE CONTEXT OF THE SITUATION ON THE LABOUR MARKET 294

239.Petra Milošovičová, Paulína Stachová 294

240.Introduction 294

241.1 Small and Medium Enterprises in Slovak Business Environment 295

242.2 Characteristics of the Slovak Labour Market 296

243.3 SMEs as an Important Employer 297

244.Conclusion 300

245.References 301

PROBLEMS AND ISSUES IN IMPLEMENTING INNOVATIONS: CASE OF THE SLOVAK AGRIFOOD SECTOR 303

246.Danka Moravčíková – Kamila Moravčíková - Izabela Adamičková 303

247.Introduction 303

248.1 Agrifood Sector within the Slovak Economy 304

249.2 Methods and sampling 305

250.3 Innovation and the Slovak Agrifood SMEs 306

251.Conclusion and Recommendations 309

252.References 310

DESPARATE ENTREPRENEURS: NO OPPORTUNITIES, NO SKILLS 312

253.Monika Mühlböck, Julia Warmuth, Marian Holienka and Bernhard Kittel 312

254.Introduction 312

255.1 The who, when and why of entrepreneurship 313

256.2 The possibility of „nons-entrepreneurship“ 315

257.3 Analysis 317

258.4 Conclusion 322

259.Acknowledgment 322

260.References 322

SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND SOCIAL ENTERPRISES: THE CASE OF SLOVAKIA 324

261.Ladislav Mura – Monika Orlíková 324

262.Introduction 324

263.1 Theoretical background 325

264.2 Material and Methods 326

265.3 Results and Discussion 326

266.Conclusion 328

267.Acknowledgment 329

268.References 330

NEW INNOVATIVE BUSINESS MODELS: CIRCULAR ECONOMY CASE 332

269.Valentinas Navickas, Akvilė Feiferytė 332

270.Introduction 332

271.1 The concept of circular economy 333

272.2 THE MODEL OF CIRCULAR ECONOMY 335

273.Conclusion 336

274.References 337

INNOVATION-BASED MODEL OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AS A STRATEGY FOR SUSTAINABLE GROWTH IN RUSSIA 339

275.Ekatarina N. Panarina 339

276.Introduction 339

277.Conclusion 344

278.References 345

ASSESSMENT OF INFLUENCE OF HUMAN CAPITAL QUALITY ON THE INNOVATIVE DEVELOPMENT OF THE TERRITORY 346

279.Ilya Panshin – Maria Tobien 346

280.Introduction 346

281.1 New features of human capital 347

282.2 Prediction of innovative development territory on the basis of indicators of human capital quality 348

283.Conclusion 353

284.References 353

DISSEMINATION OF SUSTAINBILITY IN MULTINATIONAL CONSTRUCTION COMPANIES: EVIDENCE FROM THE CZECH REPUBLIC 355

285.Jaroslav Pašmik 355

286.Introduction 355

287.1 Literature review 356

288.2 Research methods and sample 357

289.3 Research results 357

290.Conclusion 359

291.References 359

KEY PRINCIPALS OF FAMILY BUSINESS COMPREHENSION WITH HELP OF THE HISTORICAL ANALYSIS 360

292.Anastasia Petlina 360

293.Introduction 360

294.1 Family Business Definition 361

295.2 Discussion 366

296.Conclusion 368

297.Acknowledgment 369

298.References 369

SENIOR ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN CENTRAL AND EASTERN EUROPEAN COUNTRIES: GEM EVIDENCES 370

299.Anna Pilková, Ján Rehák, Zuzana Jančovičová 370

300.Introduction 370

301.1 Literature review 371

302.2 Methodology and Data 372

303.3 Results and Discussion 374

304.Conclusion 376

305.References 377

MANAGEMENT MECHANISM FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF « QUICK RESPONSE MANUFACTURING» CONCEPT IN THE ENTERPRISE 379

306.Viktor Popov – Galina Ostapenko 379

307.Introduction 379

308.1 The evolution of production systems` management models 380

309.2 Management mechanism for QRM concept implementation 382

310.3 Practical Testing the Change Management Mechanism 385

311.Conclusion 386

312.References 386

ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT IN RUSSIA: FACTORS AND TRENDS 388

313.Irina Prosvirina – Galina Ostapenko 388

314.Introduction 388

315.1 Conceptual framework and hypothesis 388

316. 3 Methodology and research 390

317.3 Results and discussion 392

318.Conclusion 394

319.References 395

NEW WAYS TO INNOVATION FINANCING FROM PUBLIC RESOURCES IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC 397

320.Marcela Příhodová – Miroslav Špaček 397

321.1 Introduction 397

322.2 Research methods used 398

323.3 Innovative company financing 398

324.4 Goal-directed and institutional financial subsidy of innovation in the Czech Republic. 403

325.5 New approach of the EU and implications for the Ministry of Industry and Trade 404

326.Conclusion 405

327.References 405

IMPACT OF THE INNOVATIONS ON REGIONAL GROWTH OVER TIME: DYNAMIC ECONOMETRIC MODELING 407

328.Svetlana Rastvortseva 407

329.Introduction 407

330.1 Theoretical background and bibliography 408

331.2 The innovations and regional growth over time 409

332.3 Research methodology 411

333.4 Model specifications 412

334.5 Interpreting the results 414

335.Conclusion 415

336.Acknowledgment 415

337.References 415

CUSTOMER-ORIENTED APPROACH IN RETAIL NETWORKS MANAGEMENT 417

338.Natalia Sharafutdinova, Lilia Shargu, Yulya Valeeva 417

339.Introduction 417

340.Conclusion 424

341.References 424

THE STUDY OF INNOVATION IN TOURISM DEVELOPMENT IN A TOURIST-RECREATIONAL CLUSTER (ON THE EXAMPLE OF THE LIPETSK REGION OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION) 426

342.Olga Skrobotova - Raisa Ivanova - Irina Polyakova 426

343.Introduction 426

344.1 Conceptual framework and hypothesis 426

345.2 Methodology and research 427

346.3 Results and discussion 427

347.Conclusion 432

348.References 433

ETHICAL RESPONSIBILITY OF SOCIAL SERVICE MANAGER 435

349.Peter Slovák – Angelika Dudžáková 435

350.Introduction 435

351.Conclusion 440

352.References 441

INCREMENTAL INNOVATION, PERFORMANCE AND FINANCING AS KEY ELEMENTS IN LOGISTIC CONTROL OF CONSTRUCTION COMPANY 443

353.Adam Sorokač – Branislav Mišota - Eduard Hyránek 443

354.Introduction 443

355.1 Current state of solve issue 444

356.2 Research goal 444

357.3 Methodology of creating interdisciplinary incremental innovation model – 3I model 445

358.4 Research result 446

359.5 Discussion 447

360.Conclusion 449

361.Acknowledgment 450

362.References 450

CROWDFUNDING AS A CAPITAL SOURCE FOR REAL ESTATE PROJECTS 452

363.Paulína Srovnalíková, Donatas Ditkus 452

364.Introduction 452

365.1 Literature review 453

366.2 Research methods 455

367.3 Results and discussion 455

368.Conclusions 458

369.References 458

MOTIVATION TO START-UP A BUSINESS IN RELATIONSHIP TO INNOVATIONS: DOES “GOOD” MOTIVATION REALLY MATTER? 460

370.Jarmila Šebestová – Zuzana Palová 460

371.Introduction 460

372.1 Individual motivation to start-up and innovativeness 460

373.2 Innovative potential of SMEs in the Moravian-Silesian Region 461

374.Conclusion 465

375.Acknowledgment 465

376.References 465

DRIVERS FOR CORPORATE SUSTAINBILITY: AN EXAMINATION OF POLISH FIRMS 467

377.Maria Urbaniec 467

378.Introduction 467

379.1 The definition and assumptions of sustainable development 468

380.2. Implementation of sustainable development in enterprises 468

381.3 The impact of sustainable development on Polish enterprises exemplified by the concept of CSR 470

382.Conclusion 472

383.References 473

SOCIO-ECONOMIC ASPECTS OF INDUSTRY 4.0 475

384.Jiří Vacek 475

385.Introduction 475

386.1 Will there be any jobs left? If so, which ones? 477

387.2 Management in the age of Industry 4.0 481

388.5 Conclusions 481

389.Acknowledgements 481

390.References 481

USING NEUTRAL NETWORKS TO DETERMINE THE FINANCIAL PLAN 483

391.Marek Vochozka 483

392.Introduction 483

393.1 Methodology 486

394.2 Results 487

395.Conclusion 492

396.References 492

FACTORS SUPPORTING GROWTH OF ADDED VALUE, PERFORMANCE AND COMPETITIVNESS OF SMES AND SELECTED EU COUNTRIES 494

397.Marek Vochozka, Mariana Psárska 494

398.Introduction 494

399.1 Added value 495

400.Conclusion 499

401.References 500


379.1 The definition and assumptions of sustainable development


The idea of sustainable development was initiated as a result of ecological problems emerging in the 1960s and ’70s (Elington, 2004). Of crucial importance in the development and dissemination of the concept of sustainable development was the so-called “Brundtland Commission” of the World Commission on Environment and Development, which published a report titled “Our common future” in 1987. According to this report, the objective of sustainable development is “… development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs” (WCED, 1987, p. 43). The Brundtland Report was an important document in the preparation of the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED), which took place in Rio de Janeiro in 1992. During this conference, a declaration on the implementation of the principle of sustainable development as the world's environmental and development policy was signed by 178 states. This declaration includes the postulate that all people, all societies and all generations are entitled to a healthy and productive life and to development in harmony with nature. Sustainable development consequently means a process directed at meeting the development objectives of the present generation in order to meet the needs of the next generation.

In definitional terms, sustainable development is understood as a normative concept, taking into account the values and ethical standards prevailing in society and necessary for its development. Starting with the classic definition contained in the Brundtland Report, current literature on sustainable development provides many new interpretations, depending on the level of aggregation or thematic area (Kates, Parris & Leiserowitz, 2005). However, one can still notice the lack of accurate and consistent meaning of the term. Depending on the economic school, ethical traditions of thought, or types of stakeholders, sustainable development can be interpreted differently. The general consensus concerns long-term targeting, as well as the taking into account environmental, economic and social dimension (Diefenbacher, 2001, p. 65).



The assumptions aim to create a sustainable and environmentally friendly pattern, which will only be possible to achieve if its interdisciplinary dimension is taken into account, and it is implemented not just at the political level, but also by enterprises as the main entities of socio-economic development. Enterprises, as well as other users of the environment, should significantly increase the efficiency of natural resources, e.g. by reducing the consumption of materials, water, energy and intermediates and by optimizing products and services at the given level of production. Therefore, enterprises have different possibilities of doing business in accordance with the principles of sustainable development, implementing voluntary actions for social and environmental responsibility.

380.2. Implementation of sustainable development in enterprises


The implementation of sustainable development in companies is currently at the initial stage of development, thus it is difficult to predict the pace and shape of its development (Cohen, 2011, p. 146). In general, however, this term determines organizational management practice and, more specifically, the production and consumption, which leads to the reduction of negative impact on the environment and the protection and re-use of raw materials (Cohen, 2011, p. 1-2). According to the nature of sustainable development, enterprises implementing this concept should take into consideration, within the framework of their management system – in an integrated manner – economic, ecological and social aspects. On the one hand, this means that appropriate economic objectives, including environmental and social aspects, should be determined, and, on the other hand, the goals, strategies, and ecological and social activities that will have a positive impact on the economic objectives of enterprises should be in focus (Schaltegger, Wagner, 2011, p. 227). Examples of sustainability management objectives should include the following (Schaltegger et al., 2007, p. 15-17):

  • the economic dimension – ensuring the economic development of the company through a focus on profit, increasing the company's value, improving profitability or the introduction of cost-reducing production,

  • the ecological dimension – protecting the environment by reducing the impact on it by enterprises as a result of production processes, products/services and investment/innovation,

  • the social dimension – the implementation of social responsibility via the company’s internal and external stakeholders.

In practice, business issues related to sustainable development are often difficult to define and operationalization. A key role in the transformation of classic management into management for sustainable development is played by managers at all levels of organizational structures. However, not all of them can manage the organization according to the principles of sustainable development, since their managerial attitudes and beliefs are not based on values aimed at taking responsibility for the environment or for operations concerning economic objectives as well as social issues.

Sustainability managers are often described as people having knowledge and experience in this area and are able to create and develop an organization striving to achieve not only economic, but also ecological and social goals (Cohen, 2011, p. 147). Taking into account objectives and activities in the field of sustainable development requires the ecological and pro-social behavior of the company management. Without the support of the top management and the lack of strategic objectives in this regard, the involvement of enterprises may be only occasional, e.g. by way of occasional campaigns. It should be emphasized that taking into account the principles of sustainable development in management complicates the process and creates new challenges for managers. In this regard, Ehrenfeld stresses that managers should critically evaluate the primary value as well as the mission of their business with a focus on sustainable development, thus creating new opportunities (Ehrenfeld, 2005, p. 23-25). The discovery and exploitation of business opportunities must be the result of conscious actions and must actively search for new solutions.

In practice, there are many opportunities to take action for the sustainable development of companies, such as: the development of environmentally friendly products, an increase in efficiency, reducing emissions, financing of social and/or environmental projects. The current level of implementation of sustainable development in enterprises allows us to observe two major trends:


  • in recent years, good progress has taken place in environmental management and social aspects in enterprises, which is the domain of mainly large companies,

  • social aspects are still considered to a lesser extent in the management of sustainable development than ecological aspects.

In summary, it can be stated that there are many concepts and systems, supporting the implementation of sustainable development at the company level (Schaltegger et al., 2007, p. 19). An example of an instrument supporting the solution to the economic, environmental and social problems is the concept of corporate social responsibility, the effects of the implementation of which, by enterprises, are presented in the next section.

381.3 The impact of sustainable development on Polish enterprises exemplified by the concept of CSR


Implementation of sustainable development is perceived as both a challenge and an opportunity for companies (Hörisch, Windolph, 2014, p. 21-22). Based on the study titled “CSR Managers”, conducted by the Responsible Business Forum in Poland, among the persons engaged in corporate social responsibility, a positive trend of development can clearly be seen (Andrejczuk, Grzybek, 2015). It should be noted that the survey was carried out in the form of two components – quantitative (133 interviews) and qualitative (16 respondents). The study was conducted by the research agency PBS in 2015 (Andrejczuk, Grzybek, 2015, p. 11).

The results of this survey show that a significant impact of CSR on the functioning of the business is noticeable over the past 15 years. This is discernible in up to 81% of the managers surveyed. This impact is visible mainly in the range of changes in the manner of shaping the companies (62%), greater attention to environmental issues (30%) and the needs of society (29%) (Andrejczuk, Grzybek, 2015, p. 13).

The results of the study show that the important factors supporting the implementation of CSR in Poland mainly include the initiative and involvement of individuals in the popularization of the idea (78%), including company managers (53%). Essential for the development of CSR were also the growing demands of more and more informed business partners (42%) and consumers (27%). Surprisingly few respondents (6%) indicate the initiatives taken by the public administration, but only a few managers have expressed the opinion that the dissemination of CSR in Poland was mainly due to multinational corporations, which, by opening their headquarters here. Business development in compliance with the concept of CSR would also not be possible without the educational activities of NGOs (including the Responsible Business Forum). Nevertheless, especially valuable is the focus on the appropriate interpretation of the concept of CSR (also based on good practices and the publication of reports), as well as promoting the value of building good, not based on the exploitation of capitalism (cooperation rather than competition, the promotion of dialog between different communities). A summary of the most important CSR factors influencing businesses in Poland is presented in Figure 1.

Fig. 1: Factors affecting the implementation of CSR in Poland over the last 15 years
Source: Andrejczuk, Grzybek (2015, p. 14).

The beginnings of CSR in Poland were not easy. The main barrier was the mentality of company management staff – the lack of understanding of the concept (46%), the belief that CSR is unprofitable and does not bring about any benefits (45%), and also a very common perception of typical sponsoring activities as measures of corporate social responsibility (40%). It should be added that the understanding of CSR in the category of sponsoring activities is a serious obstacle to the development of social responsibility in the past and currently leads to the distortion of the idea also in the public perception. Reducing CSR for charity activities or sponsorship contributes to the instrumental use of the idea as a tool of promotion and advertising; derivative of this understanding of CSR is its recognition as a way to rebuild lost trust. An elementary problem, however, seems to be the lack of the adequate education of the managerial staff and certainly its solution would translate into a reduction of the remaining barriers. Among the major obstacles, the lack of pressure on the part of consumers (32%) emerged.



However, CSR managers definitely see positive results from the implementation of CSR in their companies. As a result of conducting business in a responsible manner, respondents indicated: growing employee awareness of ethics (74%) and an increase in their involvement (71%), growing recognition of the brand concerned as being responsible (70%), improved relations with the local community (69%), overall improved reputation (62%) and increased customer confidence (61%). The most important benefits and barriers to the implementation of CSR in Poland are presented in Table 1.

Tab. 1: The main obstacles and benefits of the implementation of CSR in Poland over the last 15 years

The main barriers to the implementation of CSR in Poland

In %

The main benefits of the implementation of CSR in Poland

In %

lack of understanding of the concept by the managing staff of companies

46%

raising the level of ethical awareness among employees

74%

the conviction that CSR is “unprofitable”, without any benefit

45%

raising the level of employee engagement

71%

lack of proper education for the management personnel

41%

increasing brand recognition as a responsible/sustainable brand

70%

understanding of CSR in the category of sponsorship efforts

40%

improved relationships with local communities

69%

lack of pressure from consumers

32%

improved reputation

62%

the lack of incentives from public administration

26%

raising the level of customer confidence

61%

economic crisis

19%

implementation of new, innovative solutions (e.g. products, services, processes)

47%

lack of information in the media and public debate

18%

cost reduction

22%

unwillingness to invest by businesses

14%

reducing the number of accidents at work

22%

Others

1%

reducing the level of employee turnover

19%

there were no problems

0%

others

3%







it is difficult to say

2%







we have not achieved any benefits

0%

Source: Compiled from Andrejczuk, Grzybek (2015, p. 15, 21).

Taking into account the motives as well as the benefits and barriers to the implementation of the concept of corporate social responsibility, it must be emphasized that the dissemination of the idea of CSR in Poland is mainly reflected in a better understanding of its substance by both managers and employees that modern companies are expected to (Andrejczuk, Grzybek, 2015, p. 13):



  • raise awareness regarding the needs of the local natural and social environment,

  • make a profit ethically, based on the continuous improvement of the standards of cooperation with different groups of stakeholders (customers, employees, local communities),

  • care for the positive image, a key dimension of which is to maintain the company's operations in terms of sustainable social development; company image is one of the basic elements of increasing competitiveness, and therefore profits.

Significant changes occurring in companies in Poland, through the spread of CSR, include (Andrejczuk, Grzybek, 2015, p. 14):

  • an increase in the awareness of the rights of workers (introduction of anti-discrimination policies, anti-mobbing),

  • an increase in the number of initiatives for the non-wage motivation of employees (e.g. private medical care, the introduction of elements of work-life balance, enabling the development of a passion, e.g. by establishing and funding sports sections),

  • taking into account the good of the consumer (“ethical promotions”, no commission remuneration of traders – helping to make a good choice, they do not tend to buy goods at any price, resignation from zero percent loans, which drive the spiral of debt),

  • perception of the needs of business transparency (reporting of its activities),

  • corporate management on the basis of codes of ethics, the implementation of which is constantly monitored not only by the public but also by firm-internal departments,

  • taking measures or declaration of environmental actions,

  • involvement in philanthropic activities, participating in social campaigns.

It can be concluded that the changes in the companies will have a long-term impact on socio-economic development, including the shaping of the knowledge-based economy and the building of social capital. Therefore it can be assumed that the business models will change and will be associated with new styles of consumption and the growing expectations of society.

382.Conclusion


The implementation of the sustainable development of enterprises is a process of achieving economic, environmental and social goals by businesses. This may be reflected in various areas of functional, normative and strategic areas of the enterprises, e.g. in the company's strategy. This may be implemented based on the application of different systems and instruments simultaneously. In order to contribute to the greater dissemination of this concept, it is necessary, among others, to promote good practices among executives. Its prevalence in the practice of companies offers a chance to change consumption and production patterns, which are designed to meet intergenerational needs.

Based on the results of a survey among Polish managers, which focused on the impact of the implementation of one of the instruments of sustainable development, which is corporate social responsibility, it can be generally assumed that the impact of CSR on business in Poland has contributed to many positive changes in the functioning of businesses in the last 15 years. The development of responsible business would not be possible without the involvement of both internal stakeholders (i.e. company employees, including CSR managers), as well as external stakeholders, thanks to the growing demands of business partners and consumers.

An important fact is also that CSR is not regarded – as it was a few years ago – as a reputation-building and communication tool but, firstly, the benefits of an ethical approach and commitment of employees are mentioned by managers. This shows that CSR is no longer associated only with social shares and charitable activities, but that it’s becoming part of the company philosophy. In contrast, as the most important barrier to the development of CSR in Poland, a lack of understanding for this idea among top management staff, failure to recognize the benefits of its implementation, as well as overemphasis on sponsorship and philanthropy are indicated now and in the future, which is a major challenge for further development. However, a positive trend is the fact that the awareness of CSR among management executives from year to year is growing. In this regard, a strong leadership interested in the understanding of CSR as well as the appropriate education of managers are needed, which are seen as important drivers for the growth of responsible business in Poland.

In the literature it is emphasized that the need for sustainable development is increasingly transforming contemporary management organizations, especially their innovation and competitiveness. Many companies are involved in environmental and social activities. However, progress in this area is insufficient. Within these developments, it should be further endeavored to integrate the various requirements in the management of sustainable development.

To conclude, the implementation of sustainable development is seen both as a challenge as well as an opportunity for businesses. Both in science and in practice sustainable development is the new mainstream of development, which is not due to the needs of individual organizations or sectors of the economy, but has grown from the global need for environmental protection. With the emerging environmental problems its importance will continue to grow, but it should be emphasized that the implementation of this concept is also related to certain limitations, e.g. limited growth in production and consumption. Therefore, an important issue is not only the theoretical development of this concept, but also the search for solutions useful in practice. This will increase the motivation to take actions, the faster perception and better understanding of the many negative effects, and control over their progress.

383.References


Andrejczuk, M., Grzybek, M. (2015). Menedżerowie CSR – wyniki badania. Forum Odpowiedzialnego Biznesu: Warszawa.

Cohen, S. (2011). Sustainability Management. Columbia University Press: New York.

Diefenbacher, H. (2001). Gerechtigkeit und Nachhaltigkeit. Zum Verhältnis von Ethik und Ökonomie. Wissenschaftliche Buchgesellschaft: Darmstadt.

Elington, J. (2004). Enter the Triple Bottom Line. In: A. Henriques, J. Richardson (eds.), The Triple Bottom Line: Does it All Add Up?, Taylor & Francis: Oxon/New York 2004, p. 1-16.

Ehrenfeld, J.R. (2005). The roots of sustainability. MIT Sloan Management Review, 46(2), 23-25.

Hörisch, J., Windolph, S.E. (2014). Overview of the Aggregate Results of the International Corporate Sustainability Barometer. In: S. Schaltegger, S.E. Windolph, D. Harms, J. Hörisch, (eds), Corporate Sustainability in International Comparison, State of Practice, Opportunities and Challenges. Springer: Heidelberg.

Kates, R.W., Parris, T.M. & Leiserowitz, A.A. (2005). What is Sustainable Development? Goals, Indicators, Values, and Practice. Environment: Science and Policy for Sustainable Development, 47(3), 8-21.

Redclift, M. (2005). Sustainable development (1987–2005) – an oxymoron comes of age. Sustainable Development, 13(4), 212-227.

Schaltegger, S., Herzig, C., Kleiber, O., Klinke, T., Müller J. (2007). Nachhaltigkeitsmanagement in Unternehmen. Bundesministeriums für Umwelt, Naturschutz, Bau und Reaktorsicherheit (BMU), Econsense & Centre for Sustainability Management (Hrsg.): Berlin/Lüneburg.

Schaltegger, S., Wagner, M. (2011). Sustainable Entrepreneurship and Sustainability Innovation: Categories and Interactions. Business Strategy and the Environment, 20, 222-237.

WCED (1987). Our Common Future. The World Commission on Environment and Development. Oxford University Press, Oxford.

Urbaniec, M. (2014). Implementation of International Standards for Environmental Management in Visegrad Countries: a Comparative Analysis. Entrepreneurial Business and Economics Review, 2(2), 65-76.


Contact

Maria Urbaniec, PhD

Cracow University of Economics

Department of Entrepreneurship and Innovation

27 Rakowicka Street

31 510 Krakow (Poland)

maria.urbaniec@uek.krakow.pl



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