Proceedings of the 8th International Conference on Advanced Research in Management, Business and Finance
Year: 2024
DOI:
[PDF]
Green Business Practices in Greece: Regional Disparities, Drivers, and Barriers
Ioannis C. Thanos, Xenia J. Mamakou, Ilias Kapoutsis, Antonia Lampaki
ABSTRACT:
This study explores the adoption of green business practices among companies in Greece, focusing on the regional differences and factors that influence sustainability efforts. Using a survey of 229 Greek firms, the research identifies a strong commitment to green initiatives, with recycling and energy efficiency emerging as the most common practices. However, the findings reveal significant regional disparities, with companies in Attica, the country’s economic hub, more likely to adopt sustainable practices due to better access to resources. Key drivers of green practices include internal motivation and the desire to enhance public image. Barriers of green practices include lack of government support and insufficient information which pose challenges, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Additionally, climate change is recognized as a pressing concern, with many businesses already experiencing its effects. The study highlights the need for enhanced government policies, including financial incentives and technical support, to encourage broader adoption of green business practices across regions and industries. These insights contribute to the theoretical understanding of sustainability in underrepresented economies and offer practical guidance for fostering a more sustainable business environment in Greece.
keywords: Green practices; sustainability green initiatives; climate change; SMEs, Drivers of Green practices