Sustainability Competence for Business students. Developing a Sustainability Competence Framework for Business Students: An Interview-Based Study

Abstract

This bachelor thesis explores what sustainability competence business students need to meet the rising demand for sustainability competence due to stringent sustainability regulations within the European Green Deal. The aim is to enhance understanding of the specific aspects of sustainability competence required for effective navigation and leadership within sustainable business environments. Using a qualitative methodology with an abductive approach, this research gathers insights from interviews with both academic experts and business professionals. The insights from interviews, combined with theoretical perspectives and established frameworks for sustainability competence, have led to the identification of key aspects of sustainability competence relevant to business students. The thesis posits that acquiring sustainability competence is vital for business students to tackle today's complex environmental and social challenges, thereby improving their long-term business effectiveness and adaptability. The bachelor's thesis presents a sustainability competence framework for business students and includes four aspects: knowledge, skills, attitudes and values (KSAV). Each aspect also includes three dimensions. The knowledge aspect highlights awareness of how sustainability is defined at different levels: holistically, organizationally and at an individual professional level. Furthermore, knowledge in systems thinking and continuous learning are key dimensions. Key skills include interdisciplinary navigation, leadership of sustainability efforts and application of theoretical sustainability knowledge in economic practice. Core attitudes include seeing sustainability as an important part of business, being humble and open, and engaging in sustainable working practices. Within values, it is important to recognize and redefine one's personal values, value empathy and integrity, and align one's practice with one's principles. These aspects are interconnected and together provide a comprehensive understanding of key sustainability competence for business students. By integrating these aspects, business students will be better prepared to meet the increasing expectations for sustainability within organizations, ensuring their ability to contribute and lead the transition towards more sustainable business practices.