Exploring Environmental Sustainability Practices in Pakistani SMEs

Abstract

In developed countries, most of the population recognizes that they are facing environmental and social threats which are mainly related to global warming. The problem associated with an ecological footprint, particularly water shortage, ecosystems, climate change, deforestation, and declining biodiversity, is considered a harmful threat to human life and environmental health around the world. The purpose of this study is to explore the environmental sustainability practices of Small and Medium-size Enterprises (SMEs) in Pakistan. Although there are three dimensions of sustainability, such as environmental, social, and economical. However, the focus of this study is on the environmental dimension of sustainability. Qualitative method was used to collect data. A sample of 30 manufacturing SMEs were chosen, and semi-structured interviews were conducted for a complete understanding of the research problem. The results revealed that most of the firms believed that they have measurable targets for reducing waste, energy, water, and carbon. As in Pakistan, there is an energy crisis, and most of the industries have shut down due to the energy crises. Another vital issue for the majority of industrial estates was the scarcity of water. To reduce air pollution, most of the medium firms were trying to protect the air from pollution, whereas small firms were less concerned about air pollution. Similarly, very few medium-size (Food, Steel, Pharmaceutical) firms recycle the wastewater and reuse it, While none of the small firms recycle the water. Most SMEs are utilizing power factor for energy saving due to severe energy shortage in the country. The study indicates a bleak outlook regarding the implementation of environmental sustainability practices in small firms.