Corporate social responsibility in the Brazilian ceramic tile industry

Gabriela Scur*, Roberta de Castro Souza Pião, William Jeferson Vieira De Souza, Mary Fernanda de Sousa De Melo

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Purpose: The ceramic tile chain can generate several environmental impacts, from raw material extraction to the production process, commercialization, consumption, maintenance and disposal. One of the open issues remaining in the literature on socially responsible supply chains, also known as responsible supply chains, is understanding how corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices are being implemented in ceramic tile companies in Brazil. Design/methodology/approach: The method adopted is a multiple-case study. The authors conducted face-to-face interviews with six ceramic producers and a trade association. The authors also conducted eight interviews with specialists in the ceramic sector. They are two university professors, two class association representatives, one professional from a technological institute, two representatives of the inspection body and one supplier. Findings: Companies perform on a compliance basis, manifesting a less proactive position when the subject is CSR. In addition, the CSR practices established by the companies are preferably aimed at reducing costs and risks and increasing reputation. Practices in terms of eco-design are linked to lowering costs and growing reputation, as seen from the reduction in the use of inputs and improvements in packaging to minimize costs. These practices improve the company’s reputation from the consumers' perspective. Environmental aspects are dominant due to the legislation. Originality/value: This paper contributes theoretically since it identifies, from the companies' perspective, the CSR practices related to risk, cost reduction and reputation increase. There are also opportunities to be explored for facilitating their efforts towards a sustainable business model, especially considering the social dimension. From a managerial perspective, this paper provides some input for implementing CSR actions, mainly regarding their implications for society and local communities.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)124-146
Number of pages23
JournalAcademia Revista Latinoamericana de Administracion
Volume37
Issue number1
Early online date30 Jan 2024
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 7 Mar 2024

Keywords

  • ceramic tiles
  • corporate social responsibility
  • operations
  • social dimension
  • sustainability

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