BRAZILIAN FOOTWEAR INDUSTRY: AN ANALYSIS OF THE SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES OF CERTIFIED COMPANIES BY THE SUSTAINABLE ORIGIN SEAL

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the actions of the Brazilian footwear industry aimed at introducing innovations with an emphasis on sustainability. Theoretical Framework: The categories presented in the study addressed the historical evolution of sustainability and concepts related to the Sustainable Development Goals. Method: The footwear industries certified by the Sustainable Origin seal were adopted as the research locus. The research method is qualitative, descriptive, applied in nature. The analysis crossed the information published in the sustainability reports of these companies with the dimensions of the sustainable development objectives - people, planet, peace, prosperity and partnership. Results and Conclusion: It was found that some strategies are transversal to all dimensions. In the people dimension, companies adopt, as a priority, actions aimed at health and education. In the planet dimension, innovations consist of the development of more sustainable products, use of clean energy, reduction in water consumption in processes, use of technology and management models based on the pillars of sustainability. In the prosperity, peace and partnership dimensions, the companies present actions transversal to the main activity of the business, with emphasis on the adoption of a code of ethics and transparent management in the peace dimension. Research Implications: The research reinforces previous studies regarding the predominance of sustainable practices aimed at solid waste management, however, it is possible to see new actions highlighted, such as the management of the responsible use of water and clean energy, in addition to investments in research and development of products from more sustainable materials. Originality: These results contribute to academic studies with evidence of changes in the practices of the footwear industry.