Abstract
This study investigates how CEOs in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Norway perceive their role and responsibility in the context of environmental sustainability. Utilizing a qualitative research design with semi-structured interviews, the study explores CEOs’ understanding of environmental sustainability, their perceived leadership roles, decision-making processes, and the challenges they face when implementing sustainable practices.
The findings indicate that CEOs see themselves as critical actors responsible for driving sustainability initiatives within their companies. Their roles encompass initiating sustainability strategies, leading by example, and balancing economic constraints with environmental objectives. Informants identified internal values, external market pressures, and regulatory frameworks as significant factors influencing their sustainability decisions.
Major challenges highlighted include limited financial resources, resistance to change within the organization and supply chains, and navigating unpredictable political frameworks. Despite these obstacles, the study reveals a strong sense of ethical responsibility among the interviewed CEOs, who acknowledge that SMEs have a substantial role in contributing to environmental sustainability. They emphasize that collective efforts across different-sized enterprises are essential for achieving meaningful environmental impact.
The study contributes to existing literature by providing insights into the relatively underexplored area of environmental sustainability within SMEs. It highlights the nuanced perspectives of SME leaders, stressing the need for balanced approaches to sustainability that incorporate both economic viability and ethical commitments. Finally, the thesis suggests areas for future research, including larger and more diverse samples, deeper qualitative studies, mixed-method approaches, comparative industry analyses, and international studies to further enrich understanding in this field.
