Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): Pathways to Ethical Business and Long-Term Competitiveness

Abstract

Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) have become indispensable dimensions of contemporary business strategy. Once viewed as voluntary or peripheral practices confined to philanthropy and compliance, these concepts have evolved into integral elements of organizational decision-making. Modern corporations are expected not only to generate economic value but also to address broader societal and environmental challenges such as climate change, resource depletion, poverty, and inequality. This shift reflects a growing consensus that long-term competitiveness and legitimacy in business are inseparable from responsible and sustainable practices. The interconnection between sustainability and CSR has been increasingly emphasized in both theory and practice. Frameworks such as the stakeholder theory highlight the importance of balancing the interests of multiple groups beyond shareholders, while the triple bottom line underscores the need to harmonize economic performance with social equity and environmental stewardship. Additionally, the concept of shared value creation demonstrates how businesses can achieve competitive advantage by embedding social progress into their core operations. These approaches collectively redefine corporate responsibility, moving it from a peripheral activity to a central pillar of strategic management.