Opportunities for sustainable business models in all sectors, research shows

Shaping sustainable business models, in which companies create a positive impact on a social, ecological and economic level, is possible in all sectors, the University of Twente writes in this press release. From agriculture to electrical consumer goods, from large to small and from start-ups to existing companies. Within the NWO research programme ‘Sustainable Business Models’, eight consortia of scientists and companies – including the University of Twente – conducted research into sustainable business models and their implementation.

The research shows that there is a great deal of potential for sustainable business management and that the form of cooperation with other parties may be decisive. The optimal strategy for cooperation is highly dependent on the size and the specific value proposition of the company concerned. In a joint final publication, the researchers describe the results and insights from the research.

About the research programme

The research programme ‘Sustainable business models’ was initiated by NWO, MVO Nederland and Het Groene Brein and ran from 2013 to 2021. A total of eight research consortia received research funding. Participating knowledge institutions included Erasmus University, Utrecht University, Radboud University, University of Twente, TNO and the University of Amsterdam. All research projects involved cooperation between science and practice. Parties such as Greenwheels, Tendris, Province of Zeeland and the Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency (PBL) participated in the consortia. In a joint final publication, the researchers describe the results and insights from the study. The publication gives ample attention to recommendations and action perspectives for companies that want to give shape to sustainable business models.

Read the full press release here.

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