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Do Businesses Increase Their Value by Adopting Innovative Sustainability Practices?
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Do Businesses Increase Their Value by Adopting Innovative Sustainability Practices?

A special issue of Sustainability (ISSN 2071-1050). This special issue belongs to the section "Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 21 September 2026 | Viewed by 6297

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Graham Gal

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Accounting, Isenberg School of Management, Amherst, MA, USA
Interests: business ontologies; continuous auditing and reporting; information security; the nexus between sustainability and financial performance
Dr. Arion Cheong

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
School of Business, Stevens Institute of Technology, Hoboken, NJ, USA
Interests: automating auditing processes using big data and artificial intelligence; advancing cybersecurity assurance and reporting; examining the managerial implications of information technology

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Adopting innovative sustainability practices has become a key driver of business success in today’s dynamic global market. Stakeholders are increasingly prioritizing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance alongside financial outcomes. Emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, Internet of Things (IoT), and big data analytics are transforming the way businesses implement and measure their sustainability initiatives, offering new opportunities to enhance transparency, efficiency, and value creation.

AI supports smarter decision-making with predictive insights, blockchain ensures secure and transparent tracking of sustainability metrics, IoT devices enable real-time monitoring of environmental data, and big data analytics uncover actionable trends to drive impactful strategies. However, the integration of these technologies also introduces challenges such as ethical dilemmas, data privacy concerns, and the need for sector-specific solutions.

This call for research seeks to explore how businesses can leverage innovative technologies to enhance their sustainability practices while addressing these challenges. We invite contributions that provide insights into the opportunities and barriers associated with these practices, including case studies, industry analyses, and forward-looking perspectives on the role of technology in fostering sustainable business growth.

Suggested Themes

  1. Emerging Technologies in ESG Practices
  • The role of blockchain in ensuring transparency and reliability in ESG initiatives.
  • IoT applications for real-time tracking of environmental metrics, such as carbon emissions and energy usage.
  • AI and machine learning techniques for predicting ESG risks and improving decision-making.
  1. Big Data Analytics for ESG Strategies
  • Leveraging big data to analyze and benchmark ESG performance across industries.
  • Overcoming challenges in integrating and standardizing data for effective ESG reporting.
  • Addressing ethical considerations in handling large-scale ESG-related datasets.
  1. Regulatory Frameworks and Technological Adaptation
  • How regulatory bodies are influencing the use of emerging technologies in ESG practices.
  • Ensuring compliance with international ESG standards through technological solutions.
  • Policy implications of integrating technology in ESG measurement and governance.
  1. Cross-Industry Applications of Technology in ESG
  • Comparative studies on the adoption of emerging technologies across industries.
  • Insights into unique challenges and innovations in ESG practices specific to different sectors.
  • Case studies showcasing successful technology integration in leading firms' ESG initiatives.
  1. Challenges and Opportunities in Technology Adoption
  • Barriers to adopting emerging technologies for ESG practices in small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
  • Cost-benefit analysis of implementing advanced technologies in ESG efforts.
  • Opportunities for collaboration between technology providers and industry leaders to enhance ESG outcomes.
  1. Impact of Technology on ESG Accountability and Transparency
  • How technology improves the credibility and verification of ESG claims.
  • The role of professionals in managing technology-driven ESG processes.
  • Innovations in assurance practices facilitated by emerging technologies.
  1. Future Trends in Technology-Enabled ESG Practices
  • The convergence of technologies to create integrated ESG solutions.
  • Speculative insights into the next wave of technological advancements for ESG.
  • The evolving role of industry professionals in navigating the tech-driven ESG landscape.

Submission Guidelines

We welcome both empirical and conceptual contributions, including but not limited to qualitative and quantitative studies, literature reviews, and interdisciplinary approaches. Submissions should clearly address the use of emerging technologies in advancing ESG practices, offering valuable insights for academics, practitioners, and policymakers. We look forward to receiving your contributions that explore how innovative technologies are transforming the future of ESG strategies and sustainability efforts

Dr. Graham Gal
Dr. Arion Cheong
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Sustainability is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • ESG
  • AI
  • big data
  • sustainability
  • transparency
  • technology

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Further information on MDPI's Special Issue policies can be found here.

Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

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28 pages, 4849 KB  
Article
Inventory Segmentation and Demand Forecasting as Tools Supporting Sustainable Resource Management in a Manufacturing Company
by Mariusz Niekurzak and Jerzy Mikulik
Sustainability 2026, 18(8), 4047; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18084047 - 19 Apr 2026
Viewed by 460
Abstract
This study investigates the integration of ABC/XYZ (value-based classification/demand variability classification) inventory classification with demand forecasting models (ETS—Error, Trend, Seasonality, ARIMA—AutoRegressive Integrated Moving Average, Prophet—type of additive model) in a manufacturing enterprise to support sustainable resource management. The research aims to evaluate the [...] Read more.
This study investigates the integration of ABC/XYZ (value-based classification/demand variability classification) inventory classification with demand forecasting models (ETS—Error, Trend, Seasonality, ARIMA—AutoRegressive Integrated Moving Average, Prophet—type of additive model) in a manufacturing enterprise to support sustainable resource management. The research aims to evaluate the inventory structure, demand variability, and forecasting accuracy across different material categories. The results confirm a strong concentration of inventory value in A-class items and significant differences in forecast accuracy across ABC/XYZ segments. While AX items generally exhibit lower forecast errors, notable exceptions highlight the need for additional diagnostic analysis. The findings demonstrate that integrating classification and forecasting improves inventory decision-making, reduces excess stock, and supports sustainable resource utilization. The proposed approach provides practical guidance for optimizing inventory management in industrial environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Do Businesses Increase Their Value by Adopting Innovative Sustainability Practices?)
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27 pages, 447 KB  
Article
A Conceptual Lean–Sustainability Model for Industrial SMEs
by Elena Terradillos, João Matias, Helena V. G. Navas, Olga Costa and David Mendes
Sustainability 2026, 18(8), 3826; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18083826 - 13 Apr 2026
Viewed by 592
Abstract
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) struggle to integrate Lean practices with sustainability due to high methodological complexity and the frequent neglect of the social dimension. This study develops the Simple, Sustainable, and Inclusive Lean Model (SSILM), a conceptual framework designed to bridge these [...] Read more.
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) struggle to integrate Lean practices with sustainability due to high methodological complexity and the frequent neglect of the social dimension. This study develops the Simple, Sustainable, and Inclusive Lean Model (SSILM), a conceptual framework designed to bridge these gaps. The methodology involved a systematic meta-evaluation of 31 existing Lean–Sustainability models against 14 operational criteria tailored for SMEs. Findings reveal that current models lack social integration and practical scalability for resource-constrained environments. The proposed SSILM is structured in six phases, from characterization to analysis, prioritizing low-cost participatory tools and strategic innovation. This study contributes a theoretical bridge between operational efficiency and the Triple Bottom Line, specifically emphasizing the social pillar. As a conceptual paper, its primary limitation is the lack of empirical field testing, which establishes a clear roadmap for future longitudinal research in industrial contexts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Do Businesses Increase Their Value by Adopting Innovative Sustainability Practices?)
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23 pages, 553 KB  
Article
Social Trust and Corporate Greenwashing in China: The Role of Informal Institutions for Sustainability
by Weixin Dong, Youcai Yang and Yan Chen
Sustainability 2026, 18(3), 1704; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18031704 - 6 Feb 2026
Viewed by 559
Abstract
Corporate greenwashing poses a significant challenge to global sustainability efforts. Drawing on firm-level data from China, this study explores the effect of social trust as a key informal institution on inhibiting greenwashing behavior. We find that social trust significantly reduces the level of [...] Read more.
Corporate greenwashing poses a significant challenge to global sustainability efforts. Drawing on firm-level data from China, this study explores the effect of social trust as a key informal institution on inhibiting greenwashing behavior. We find that social trust significantly reduces the level of greenwashing. Our mechanism analysis suggests that social trust restrains greenwashing primarily by enhancing corporate information transparency, alleviating managerial short-termism, and easing financial constraints. Further heterogeneity tests show that the effect is stronger in firms not audited by Big Four auditors and those without voluntary environmental disclosure, as well as in regions with weaker formal institutional environments. We also examine multidimensional trust and find that generalized trust plays a dominant role in curbing greenwashing, whereas personalized and institutional trust show limited effects. These findings highlight the importance of social capital and informal institutional forces in promoting corporate environmental accountability and advancing sustainable development goals. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Do Businesses Increase Their Value by Adopting Innovative Sustainability Practices?)
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35 pages, 4769 KB  
Article
Intersectoral Labour Mobility in Europe as a Driver of Resilience and Innovation: Evidence from Granularity and Spatio-Temporal Modelling
by Cristina Lincaru, Camelia Speranta Pirciog, Adriana Grigorescu and Luise Mladen-Macovei
Sustainability 2025, 17(22), 10333; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172210333 - 18 Nov 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1181
Abstract
Intersectoral labour mobility is a key driver of economic resilience and innovation in Europe. The redistribution of workers across sectors and regions enables economies to adapt to shocks, create flexibility and increase the rate of structural change. However, the dynamics of mobility have [...] Read more.
Intersectoral labour mobility is a key driver of economic resilience and innovation in Europe. The redistribution of workers across sectors and regions enables economies to adapt to shocks, create flexibility and increase the rate of structural change. However, the dynamics of mobility have not been adequately investigated across varying scales of sectoral granularity and spatio-temporal dimensions. This paper applies the Intersectoral Mobility Index (MI) to all European NUTS-2 areas from 2008 to 2020, utilising Eurostat Structural Business Statistics. Two levels of sectoral aggregation (NACE Rev. 2, 1-digit and 2-digit) are employed to compute MI, capturing both broad and fine-grained reallocations. Classical indices of structural change (NAV, Krugman, Shorrocks) are combined with spatio-temporal modelling in ArcGIS Pro, employing Space–Time Cubes, time-series exponential smoothing forecasts, time-series clustering and emerging hot spot analysis. Results indicate that MI distributions are positively skewed and heavy-tailed, with peaks coinciding with systemic crises (2009–2011, 2020). At the 2-digit level, MI values are significantly higher, revealing intra-sectoral changes obscured in aggregated data. A statistically significant downward trend in mobility suggests an increasing structural rigidity following the global financial crisis. Regional clustering highlights heterogeneity: a small number of regions, such as Bremen, Madeira and the Southern Great Plain, have sustained high or unstable mobility, while most exhibit convergent mobility and low reallocation. This paper contributes to the conceptualisation of MI as a dual measure of resilience and innovation preparedness. It underscores the importance of multi-scalar and spatio-temporal methods in monitoring labour market flexibility. The findings have policy implications, including the design of targeted reskilling programmes, proactive labour market policies and just transition plans to maintain regional resilience during the EU’s green and digital transitions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Do Businesses Increase Their Value by Adopting Innovative Sustainability Practices?)
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19 pages, 299 KB  
Article
Customers Increase Financial Performance of Socially Responsible Firms
by Orhan Akisik and Graham Gal
Sustainability 2025, 17(22), 10112; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172210112 - 12 Nov 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1033
Abstract
Previous survey research has documented that consumers place value on socially responsible firms. This support includes the intention to be more loyal to these firms and also the willingness to pay higher prices for their products. Our study connects the customer intentions documented [...] Read more.
Previous survey research has documented that consumers place value on socially responsible firms. This support includes the intention to be more loyal to these firms and also the willingness to pay higher prices for their products. Our study connects the customer intentions documented in survey research with actual measures of financial performance from published financial statements. The study uses gross profits scaled by total assets as a proxy for customers’ willingness to pay higher prices and sales increases as a proxy for loyalty. Additionally, the study examines differences in the aforementioned measures between customers in the business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-consumer (B2C) segments. These differences have been documented in studies that suggest customers in these segments value different characteristics of suppliers when making their purchases. Finally, customers must be made aware of a firm’s sustainability practices; therefore, the study looks at three different approaches firms use to communicate the quality of their sustainability practices. These approaches include external assurance of the social responsibility report, the auditor’s review of the firm’s internal controls, and the firm’s advertising intensity. Data used in this study includes financial performance measures of North American firms and corporate social responsibility data from disclosures collected by the Global Reporting Initiative. Using ordinary least squares, the results suggest that customers require some sort of assurance of a company’s socially responsible disclosures when making decisions about whether to support the company. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Do Businesses Increase Their Value by Adopting Innovative Sustainability Practices?)

Other

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20 pages, 1616 KB  
Systematic Review
Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Factors in International Trade: A Systematic Review and Integrative Framework
by Georgios A. Deirmentzoglou, Eleni E. Anastasopoulou, Andreas Masouras and Panikos Symeou
Sustainability 2026, 18(2), 677; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18020677 - 9 Jan 2026
Viewed by 1653
Abstract
Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors have become central to international trade, transforming how firms, industries, and governments engage in global markets. This study conducts a systematic literature review to synthesize current knowledge on the ESG–trade nexus. Using content analysis, three key thematic [...] Read more.
Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors have become central to international trade, transforming how firms, industries, and governments engage in global markets. This study conducts a systematic literature review to synthesize current knowledge on the ESG–trade nexus. Using content analysis, three key thematic clusters were identified: (i) ESG in supply chains and logistics, (ii) ESG in export performance and international competitiveness, and (iii) ESG and trade within geopolitics, energy, and resource security. The synthesis reveals that ESG has evolved from a voluntary corporate initiative into a structural determinant of global competitiveness, resilience, and legitimacy. Building on these findings, the study proposes an integrative ESG–Trade framework, which conceptualizes ESG as a multidimensional governance ecosystem comprising (i) institutional and regulatory, (ii) technological and operational, and (iii) geopolitical and strategic dimensions. This framework explains how sustainability regulations, digital transformation, and global political economy dynamics co-evolve to shape trade flows and industrial upgrading. The study highlights the need for greater regulatory coherence and strategic ESG integration while offering a foundation for future interdisciplinary and empirical research on sustainable trade governance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Do Businesses Increase Their Value by Adopting Innovative Sustainability Practices?)
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