The homogenization of carbon management practices : how organizations response to isomorphic pressures to reduce GHG emissions

Abstract

PURPOSE: Many companies are facing an increasing pressure exerted by governments, shareholders and other stakeholders to reduce their CO2 emissions in order to mitigate climate change. The importance of managing CO2 emissions by introducing adequate practices has increased for the affected companies. The present paper discusses the results of studies pertaining to the homogenization of carbon management practices.

DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: With 122 responses from 3 European countries, we applied structural equation modeling to test our hypotheses.

FINDINGS: Our findings revealed that the source of the homogenization of carbon management practices can be traced back to the mimetic and normative pressure. On the other hand, the impact of coercive pressure was found to be insignificant. The homogenization is also influenced by the success of the model organization and the similarity of carbon strategy. The results were outlined in relation to inter and intra CM practices.

ORIGINALITY/VALUE: This study makes the following contributions. Firstly, it analyses threefold isomorphic mechanisms in carbon management practices. Secondly, it examines which practices are imitated, and whether the features and success of the model organization are significant in the imitation process. Third of all, it assesses the significance of CM practices’ imitation for the adjustment of organizations to the expectations of stakeholders.