Strategy for sustainability in a Brazilian sugarcane industry

Purpose–The purpose ofthis paper is to suggest the application of systemic methodologies, such as Soft Systems Methodology (SSM), to develop sustainability strategies and solve problems involving the sustainability of organizations and their operations. The sustainability paradigm implies the need for changes in current production systems, societal organization and use of the natural resources that are essential to all life forms. Sustainability, as a new paradigm, modifies the way in which organizations operate to make companies responsible for sustainable development and ensure that resources are available for future generations. Sustainable development requires a broad new development strategy that encompasses political, economic, social, technological and environmental dimensions. Design/methodology/approach– As a method of analysis the research will use the application of SSM in a case study from the sugarcane industry. The basic scientific thought paradigm, inherited from Bacon and Descartes, no longer holds in modern society, which requires a new wayof perceiving the world by following a systemic and integrated approach to address complex problems. Findings– This study advances the understanding of how the systemic approach can aid the development of corporate sustainability strategies. Originality/value– The basic pillar of the new sustainability paradigm is the systemic view. The systemic approach should guide the development of corporate strategies. This study followed a qualitative approach to better understand how organizations can use the systemic approach in the development of sustainability strategies.