The aim of this project is to contribute towards clarifying the questions that arise in relation to the challenge of sustainability in companies, both from a conceptual point of view, particularly those that form part of the practical implementation of a sustainable strategy. This will be undertaken by studying and analysing the process behind the design and implementation of the sustainable development model at the Aigües de Barcelona company.  The company has developed a sustainability management model that is unique and original, in which many of the aforementioned problems have been tackled and original and innovative solutions have been found. The model ensures that the mission, CSR and sustainability are not separate elements, but are elements that are all incorporated into a strategy and decision-making system that involves all employees in sustainability. 

The basis hypothesis for this project is that the mission, responsibility and sustainability should not be treated as separate and unconnected.  This sustainability perspective contributes a precise way of “thinking” and “valuing” the result of action.  It is also a way to make decisions as the result of a broadened sense of the organisational mission.  From this perspective, it contributes three important qualities towards activity in companies: realism, social value and effectiveness. 

The thesis will be supervised by Professor Miquel Bastons, from the Faculty of Economic and Social Sciences.  It is the first Industrial Doctorate Programme which the university has set up.  You can read the full programme on the AGAUR website.