Stakeholder management, a decisive element in the deployment of a proactive environmental strategy within a company

Abstract

In a world where environmental awareness is growing on a global scale, the adoption of a proactive environmental strategy has become imperative for companies wishing to maintain their performance and sustainability. This development stems from the growing awareness that long-term profitability is inextricably linked to environmental responsibility. Thus, it is essential for companies of all sizes and in all sectors to consistently integrate environmental considerations into their overall strategy.

Effective implementation of an environmental strategy relies on the effective management of a multitude of stakeholders, ranging from internal stakeholders such as employees and shareholders to external stakeholders such as governments, NGOs, suppliers, customers and local communities. These stakeholders play a crucial role in determining the company's environmental decisions and actions. Therefore, to be successful, businesses must be able to navigate a complex landscape of conflicting interests while identifying and exploiting sustainability-related business opportunities.

In this context, our article adopts a conceptual approach based on an exhaustive review of the existing literature. We seek to explore the arguments for involving stakeholders in the process of developing and deploying an environmental strategy, while examining the basis for dialogue and collaboration with these stakeholders. In particular, we emphasize the importance of transparency, trust and mutual commitment in these interactions.

Keywords: Environmental Strategy, Stakeholders, Legitimacy, Power, Sustainability.

Classification JEL : M41, M42

Paper type: Theoretical Research