Sustainability and circular economy: The case of FIRM A

This Master’s Dissertation aims to assess the Strategy around regarding Sustainability, Circular economy (CE) and the Environment, Social and Governance of a food manufacturing company (i.e.: FIRM a) based in the UAE. In this framework, important conclusions will be derived around the overall condition that similar companies in the UAE face regarding these topics.

The work presented in this Dissertation was completed in a period of one and a half years s -from June 2021 till December 2022- when a series of different tools and methodologies were applied in order to reach the final conclusions and recommendations. The research included qualitative and quantitative methodologies, such as a survey, interviews with key internal stakeholders, a benchmark analysis and a review of publicly disclosed data and several corporate documents.

Using the SWOT tool methodology (i.e.: Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats) all identified points were mapped accordingly and final recommendations and conclusions were raised.

To wrap things up, the answer to my main research question is that what was FIRM A as well as the companies operating in the UAE are facing several barriers when it comes to the implementation of a Sustainability Roadmap and an CE business model. Inadequate regulation, poor infrastructure, low level of awareness and consumer’s acceptance are the main barriers.

However, there are always new paths that FIRM A could follow to overcome these barriers, such as like he proper engagement with the local authorities to expedite the Sustainability and the CE agenda and the education of the consumers and the employees on the ESG topics. The specific ways that companies like FIRM A should follow, are highlighted in present Master’s Dissertation