Contracts to frame sustainable futures

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine what role the contract can, or should, have to frame sustainable futures.Design/methodology/approachTheoretical discussion, implementation of action‐based scenarios method.FindingsIn a sustainable perspective, function and dysfunction of contracts relate to irreversibility to be designed as transfer, stalemate, oscillation and phase lag.Research limitations/implicationsContracts appear as the product of a rational decision, settling the interactions between contracting parties, as well as being a symbolic act.Originality/valueThe paper discusses contracts in a long range perspective through the implementation of action‐based scenarios method.