UNDERSTANDING SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MODELS

Abstract

Purpose: Business organizations present different approaches to the implementation of the sustainable development concept to their business models. The scale and scope of implementation of the idea may be related to the level of understanding and prioritizing the issue of sustainability in business operations. The main aim of the paper is presentation of the theoretical background of sustainable business models. Frameworks and borders of the sustainability in management will be proposed. Approach: There are different aspects taken into consideration when analyzing the idea of business models based on sustainability from environmental responsibility to strategic orientation. Author of the paper will analyze the current literature and based on this improve main elements that describe the theoretical approach to business models including sustainability. Implications: The paper presents conceptual assumption of sustainable business model. It is the first step to further research. The limits and challenges of sustainable business models are presented. The proposed criteria are used to assess the possibilities of developing and designing sustainable approach of business models in companies.