Can B Corp certification anchor sustainability in SMEs?

Research output: Journal contributionsJournal articlesResearchpeer-review

Authors

  • Bruna Carvalho
  • Arnim Wiek
  • Barry Ness

B Corp certification is considered a viable instrument to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in adopting sustainable practices. However, there is a lack of evidence to what extent this instrument can anchor sustainability at the core of SMEs. This study investigates the B Corp certification process of a SME, a craft brewery in southern Sweden, regarding the extent to which it helped infusing sustainability into the business’ mission, practices, corporate form, certificates, and capacities. Results show that the B Impact Assessment, as part of the certification process, positively influenced the business’ mission, practices, and capacities. Limited influence on social commitment and adoption of a sustainable corporate form can be explained through regulatory context and time required for deep organizational change. To enhance the effectiveness of B Corp certification, we recommend making it even more adaptable to different geographical and social contexts and increase focus on impact business models.

Original languageEnglish
JournalCorporate Social Responsibility and Environmental Management
Volume29
Issue number1
Pages (from-to)293-304
Number of pages12
ISSN1535-3958
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 01.01.2022

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© 2021 The Authors. Corporate Social Responsibility and Environmental Management published by ERP Environment and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

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