This paper aims to discuss shared value creation (Porter & Kramer, 2011) tenets around the environment. The investments of a company in the improvement of the environment may significantly preserve natural assets and keep tourists coming. At the same time, environmental projects such as Zero Waste-target may protect the vicinity and insure future employment for the inhabitants of the community.
to explore forward-thinking tenets around corporate environmental management, and key issues on investments around (social-ecological) dimensions;
to understand how private enterprises can establish solid waste disposal systems in search of “Zero Waste” philosophy, through progressive measures and investments; and
to understand the challenges present in developing regions, where there may be limited support from the local government, and where alliances (with other private firms, NGOs, etc.) may be crucial.
Grupo Puntacana, one of the largest tourist organizations in eastern Dominican Republic, decided to protect its beaches, coral reefs and, ultimately, its investments, by addressing land-based pollution. It established a “Zero Waste” disposal system. The system to be implemented required significant knowledge, several investments and implementation phases. The case describes key stages of the environmental management of this Zero Waste target project. Every residential unit, each shop and the airport public areas were equipped with facilities for waste or recycling. Restaurants and hotels were actively involved. Significant facilities for waste management were put in place, as well as educational efforts. The project was entirely undertaken by this private institution, without any government involvement (other than the legal exoneration of import duties for equipment used to protect the environment). But despite the progress, there were worries. No meaningful results would be achieved if other actors and communities in the area did not enroll actively in similar actions – Grupo Puntacana’s efforts would not be sufficient to save the eastern Dominican beaches and coastal areas. How could others see the benefit of this or related environmental management initiatives and proactively join them?
Undergraduate, MBA, executive and postgraduate.
Teaching notes are available for educators only.
CSS4: Environmental Management.
