| Abstract [eng] |
INTEGRATING ISO 14001 STANDARDS WITH CIRCULAR ECONOMY PRINCIPLES FOR ACHIEVING ORGANIZATIONAL SUSTAINABILITY Chiranjib Bhattacharjee Master Thesis Global Business and Economics Master Programme, Faculty of Economics and Business Administration, Vilnius University Supervisor Assoc. Prof. Dr. Roma Adomaitiene, Vilnius, 2025 SUMMARY 64 pages, 9 figures, 7 tables, 2 annexes, and 56 references The aim of the thesis is to explore how integrating ISO 14001 with CE principles lead to organizational sustainability. The research aims to provide practical recommendations for moving from traditional business models to make organizations more sustainable with integrated EMS with CE principles. The thesis discusses concepts like sustainability, sustainable development, circular economy and ISO 14001. The thesis explores ISO 14001 framework as a structured system for managing environmental impacts. This helps understand the challenges and experiences of organization with a hybrid approach which includes both the theory and real-world application of integrating ISO 14001 with CE practices. The study uses a mixed approach is used which includes literature review, semi-structured interviews with industry professionals, and secondary data analysis using coding and thematic analysis. The findings of the thesis were elaborate and relevant and addresses the aims and objectives of the thesis. Organizations are at different levels/stages of ISO 14001 adoption and go through internal changes which align with the clause of ISO 14001 standards before being certified. ISO certified organizations show operational consistency, greater credibility and are highly competitive. The nature of ISO 14001 is process oriented and aligns with CE principles which focuses on life cycle of products, continuous improvement and risk management. The recommendations include internal alignment of organizations according to the ISO 14001 clauses, encouraging cross-functional collaboration among teams, commitment of leadership and metrics driven approach to track compliance and circularity. In conclusion, integration ISO 14001 with CE can be achieved through planning, commitment of leadership and a culture which is open for change. The thesis offers a framework with actionable steps and recommendation to achieve sustainability and readiness for the future. |
