Sustainable business practices in SMEs: a retrospective insight on catalysts and hurdles

Sustainability being the buzz word, in the context of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and increasing climate change issues, has attracted the attention of academic and industrial researchers. Consequently, the number of research attempts on sustainability has escalated to quench the soaring research questions on various aspects of sustainability and sustainable businesses. However, the context of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) requires special attention considering the recent climate changes in the region and the presence of vast majority of exploratory industries. Therefore, this study examined the drivers and barriers in the adoption of sustainable business practices among the small and medium business houses. The study used an exploratory research design and conducted in-depth personal interviews to collect data from 33 respondents The study identified legal environment, strategic intent, stakeholder pressure and personal values as major drivers of sustainable business practice adoption. However, lack of physical, financial and human capital and insufficient support environment limits the adoption of sustainability business plans by the small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The study results make significant contributions to the policy makers, prospective SMEs and non-adopters to foster the adoption of sustainability business practices by small and medium business houses.