A framework for evaluating global policy on sustainability
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to evaluate whether the global policy on sustainability, United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), is in alignment with the complexity of the sustainability landscape utilizing complex adaptive system (CAS) theory and theory of change.
Design/methodology/approach
An original Complex Adaptive Policy System (CAPS) framework is used as a qualitative instrument with a constant comparison of 11 CAS themes in analyzing 117 UNGC speeches listed on the Global Compact Web site.
Findings
Although this study is intended as a preliminary study, the findings raise important questions regarding the long-term impact of the Global Compact as a global policy on sustainability.
Research limitations/implications
The limitations of the study include the preliminary study design and limited source of information. Future research should include a comprehensive evaluation of the UNGC to yield specific recommendations for aligning policy with the landscape.
Originality/value
The study offers an original systems framework to evaluate public and private organizational polices on sustainability.
Keywords
Citation
Lockard, D.W. (2015), "A framework for evaluating global policy on sustainability", Journal of Global Responsibility, Vol. 6 No. 2, pp. 215-228. https://doi.org/10.1108/JGR-06-2015-0008
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2015, Emerald Group Publishing Limited