The Human Side of Sustainability Strategy

Sustainability strategy is often discussed in terms of regulation, disclosure, finance, and performance. Yet behind every strategic decision are human processes of attention, interpretation, judgment, and action.

In this seminar, Sana Chiu presents a microfoundational perspective on sustainability strategy, examining how leaders' motivations, values, cognitive frames, personalities, and stakeholder relationships influence organizational responses to sustainability challenges. The talk also explores how governance structures—including boards, accountability systems, stakeholder voice, and decision-making processes—can enable or constrain responsible leadership.

Bringing together insights from leadership, governance, stakeholder engagement, and corporate sustainability research, the seminar highlights the human factors that shape whether sustainability becomes symbolic compliance, incremental improvement, or meaningful organizational transformation.

Contact & Registration

Institute of Responsible Innovation, Sustainability and Energy (RISE)
University of St.Gallen (HSG)
rise@unisg.ch