Predictors of Adopting a Sustainability Policy in Museums

Abstract

This paper aims to identify certain factors that may influence museums’ success in adopting and implementing a sustainability policy. The research hypotheses were formulated based on an in-depth study of the literature and subsequently tested using classical linear regression methodology. The empirical research is based on 86 Romanian national questionnaires collected in October and November 2016, which tracked museums’ self-reported sustainability practices. To examine the relationships between sustainability policy and independent variables, we developed three generalized linear regression models. Our results revealed that environmental behavior and some components of social responsibility (heritage exposure and community involvement) have a positive impact on implementing sustainability policies and principles within museums. Surprisingly, economic performance did not prove to have a significant influence on sustainability policy, suggesting that financial autonomy, efficiency, and productivity are not essential elements in fostering a sustainable mindset within museums. The developed models serve as valuable tools for museum managers, providing guidance in adopting appropriate managerial decisions to achieve sustainability goals. Furthermore, the empirical research offers new insights that enhance and advance current knowledge and research in the field of sustainable management in museums.