The multiple identities of sustainability
| Pages | 194-205 |
| DOI | https://doi.org/10.1108/WJSTSD-05-2015-0022 |
| Published date | 13 July 2015 |
| Date | 13 July 2015 |
| Author | Catalin Ratiu,Beverlee B. Anderson |
| Subject Matter | Public policy & environmental management,Environmental technology & innovation |
The multiple identities
of sustainability
Catalin Ratiu
Department of Management, College of Business Administration,
California State University San Marcos, San Marcos, California, USA, and
Beverlee B. Anderson
Department of Marketing, College of Business Administration,
California State University San Marcos, San Marcos, California, USA
Abstract
Purpose –Sustainability is one of the mostcomplex composite constructs to have emerged in the last
decades.Having a clear understandingof its meanings is criticalas actions basedon these understandings
impact all walks of life. The purpose of this paper is to track the conceptualizations and measurements
of sustainable development in the areas of government, business, education, and the trades.
Design/methodology/approach –Through a multi-method design, the authors explore what
stakeholders in these groups value in sustainability by observing where they develop initiatives, invest
funds, and report progress.
Findings –What emerges is a picture of diverse views and multiple identities, driven by distinct
logics and motives.
Originality/value –Based on these findings, the authors propose that, instead of reconciling these
diverse perspectives, the authors might focus on constructing shared understandings around critical
values.
Keywords Sustainability, Sustainable development
Paper type Research paper
I. Introduction
Despite significant efforts, a clear definition of sustainability continues to elude us.
While the use of the concept has increased to the point of becoming a buzzword,
its meaning has flattened and has become synonymous with anything that is either
good or neutral (Károly, 2013) or continues to engage only superficially with critical
notions of sustainable development (Springett, 2003). Attempts to understand what
sustainability means and to integrate it in our lives have been numerous. Of all the
conferences held every year, many now have at least some sections dedicated to
sustainability themes. Similarly, the number of publications, books, and articles
covering various aspects of sustainability has increased tremendously.
Still, an increase in interest and use of this concept has not brought a better
understanding of it. Morelli (2013) explains that the concept has been transformed fr om
scientifically definable to a notion open to interpretation by anyone. This may lead
to organizational battles for the right to interpret and offer meaning by dominant
or non-dominant organizational actors (Ählström and Egels-Zandén, 2006). As a resul t,
individuals and organizations struggle to form universal definitions. Károly (2013, p. 1)
further proposes that “the expression has been inflated, overused, misused, and
abused.”In some cases, such as the issue of climate change, the concept has become
a cultural artifact susceptible to belief instead of proof (Hoffman, 2010). In addition,
organizations may consider this a fad that should, nevertheless, be employed for
reputational benefits (Tetrault Sirsly and Lamertz, 2008).
World Journal of Science,
Technology and Sustainable
Development
Vol. 12 No. 3, 2015
pp. 194-205
©Emerald Group Publishing Limited
2042-5945
DOI 10.1108/WJSTSD-05-2015-0022
The current issue and full text archive of this journal is available on Emerald Insight at:
www.emeraldinsight.com/2042-5945.htm
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WJSTSD
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