Reflective Journal on Business Ethics and Sustainability, Semester 1

This reflective journal examines the concepts of business ethics and sustainability, focusing on the importance of strategic approaches for achieving competitive advantage and sustainable growth. The journal references AkzoNobel's commitment to sustainable practices and discusses the significance of ethical considerations in business operations. It emphasizes the value of proactive problem-solving, referencing Michael Porter's insights and the role of social progress in sustainable development. The author concludes that measuring employee social performance is crucial for clarity and progress towards sustainable goals. The journal provides insights into the challenges and opportunities in integrating ethical considerations into business strategies, supported by references to academic and corporate resources.

Running head: BUSINESS ETHICS AND SUSTAINABILITY
Reflective journal on measuring and managing the current techniques and practices of
sustainability
Name of the student:
Name of the university:
Author note:

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BUSINESS ETHICS AND SUSTAINABILITY
Table of contents
Introduction to the issue.............................................................................................................2
Measurement of the issue...........................................................................................................2
Conclusion..................................................................................................................................2
References..................................................................................................................................3

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BUSINESS ETHICS AND SUSTAINABILITY
Introduction to the issue
In view of the present competitive ambience, the companies and organizations fail to
achieve competitive advantage over the competitive ambience. I feel the major drive behind
this is the lack of strategic approach towards the execution of the business activities. One of
the striking features; here is the nature of the marketers towards the clients and the customers.
In an attempt to grab the hot seat, they compromise with the needs, demands and
requirements of the stakeholders and shareholders. This is an unethical approach, acting as an
obstacle for the marketers in terms of achieving sustainable growth. However, my applause
goes to AkzoNobel for striving towards adding comfort into the lives of the people
(Akzonobel.com 2018).
Measurement of the issue
I think making plans would help the personnel aware of the priority of the allocated
duties and responsibilities. Here, I can refer to the words of AkzoNobel’s CEO regarding
commitment and evaluation being keystone in gaining operational excellence and sustainable
growth. My opinions bear resemblance with Michael Porter regarding in terms of tackling a
problem with confidence. When a company or organization confronts a problem with
confidence, they are bound to achieve easy solutions (Ted.com 2018). I think rationality in
problem solving enables the companies and organizations to earn huge profits, which leads to
a sustainable growth. Herein lays the appropriateness of Michael Green’s statements about
social progress Index, being one of the determinants of country’s sustainable development.

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BUSINESS ETHICS AND SUSTAINABILITY
Conclusion
Taking into consideration all the views, I can conclude that measuring the social
performance of the employees would enhance the clarity of the personnel regarding the path
towards the achievement of sustainable development.
References
Akzonobel.com (2018). Annual report 2016. Available at: https://www.akzonobel.com/for-
investors/all-reports/annual-report-2016 [Accessed on 26th January 2016]
Doppelt, B., 2017. Leading change toward sustainability: A change-management guide for
business, government and civil society. Routledge.
Ted.com (2018). Michael Porter: Why business can be good at solving social problems.
Available at:
http://www.ted.com/talks/michael_porter_why_business_can_be_good_at_solving_social_pr
oblems [Accessed on 26th January 2018]