Sustainability Leadership: Linking Theory and Practice

Abstract

The paper aims to create a clearer understanding of the nature of sustainability leadership and how it can contribute to transformational change. It does this by locating sustainability within the leadership literature, defining the concept of sustainability leadership, and presenting a model of sustainability leadership in practice. The model was tested with a sample of senior business leaders and refined in line with their feedback. The model presents insights on sustainability leadership in three areas: context, individual characteristics, and actions. The model is illustrated using quotes from senior business leaders that are focused on sustainability in their organizations.

Keywords: sustainability, leadership, sustainable development, csr, sustainability leadership, corporate social responsibility

JEL Classification: M14, L10, L20, M10, M12