Sustainability Practices in Emerging Markets vs. Developed Markets

Indianapolis, IN

Sustainability practices are a growing focus in business as the world becomes stripped of resources through global expansion. The requirements and regulations vary from market to market, as do the resources available, and the needs of the local market. Key factors including, profitability, operational costs, and corporate responsibility must be taken into account when considering what practices will work for a particular business. The driving question for this research is: Is it easier to implement sustainability programs in an undeveloped market or a developed market? To address the full scope of this driving question other factors that will be considered include: expanding profits through sustainability programs, the motivating factors that lead businesses to partake in these practices, and advantages sustainability will bring to the long-term strategy of a business. This topic will be explored through in depth research on various public and private international databases. The goal of this research is to show that sustainability practices are necessary regardless of the market type, and these methods must be adapted to the needs of the particular market.