Systematic Review - Network for Business Sustainability

SUSTAINABILITY-RELATED AND SUSTAINABILITY-ORIENTED INNOVATION
Several possible interpretations: first, innovation explicitly directed at a sustainability goal — for example, generating electricity with lower
emissions than current power stations produce. Second, innovation processes, which do not have sustainability issues as their primary target
(e.g. the innovation process for a fast-moving consumer goods company producing new consumer products), but which try to adhere to
sustainability targets during their development, production and use. Finally, innovation processes which are sustainable within the company.
This usage is not linked to environmental or social goals: it is merely a statement that the company has an innovation renewal process that
keeps its innovation engine running profitably (Blowfield, Visser & Livesay, 2007).
The renewal or improvement of products, services, technological or organizational processes to deliver not only an improved economic
performance but also an enhanced environmental and social performance, both in the short and long terms (Bos-Brouwers, 2010a).
Realized ideas that improve environmental and/or social performance compared with the current situation (Arnold & Hockerts, 2011).
A tool both to address sustainability issues and to tap into new customer segments and markets (Hansen, Grosse-Dunker & Reichwald, 2009).
An improvement (and/or introduction) of a product, technology, service, process, management technique or business model, which, in
comparison to a prior version and based on a rigorous and traceable (comparative) analysis, has a positive net effect on the overall capital
stock (economic, environmental and social) (Klewitz & Hansen, 2011).
SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS
A business approach that strengthens both the business (i.e. generates profits, builds resilience, etc.) and society (i.e. generates positive
externalities for the environment, communities, employees, etc.) (Network for Business Sustainability).
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
To meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs (WCED, 1987).
The integration of environmental thinking into every aspect of social, political and economic activity (Elkington, 1994).
A process of achieving human development in an inclusive, connected, equitable, prudent and secure manner. Inclusiveness implies human
development over time and space. Connectivity entails an embrace of ecological, social and economic interdependence. Equity suggests
intergenerational, intra-generation and inter-species fairness. Prudence connotes duties of care and prevention: technologically, scientifically
and politically. Security demands safety from chronic threats and protection from harmful disruption (Gladwin, Kennelly & Krause, 1995).
Seeks to meet the needs and aspirations of present higher forms of sentient life without compromising the ability to meet those of the future
(Birkin et al., 2009).
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