In the heart of Türkiye’s textile industry, a groundbreaking study is weaving a new narrative for sustainability, one that could reshape how small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) approach environmental and social responsibility. Led by Akın Emrecan Gök from Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa’s Environmental Engineering Department, this research is not just about identifying sustainability priorities but about turning them into actionable, measurable goals.
The textile sector, known for its significant water and energy consumption, is under the microscope. Gök and his team embarked on a mission to understand what truly matters to SMEs in this industry, engaging stakeholders from four companies across Ankara, Gaziantep, and Kahramanmaraş. Their tool of choice? A materiality assessment, a structured approach to pinpoint the most critical sustainability issues.
“Materiality assessment is like a compass,” Gök explains. “It helps companies navigate the complex landscape of sustainability by focusing on what truly matters to their stakeholders and their business.”
The study, published in the journal ‘Sustainable Futures’ (translated to English as ‘Sustainable Futures’), reveals a convergence of priorities among the participating SMEs. Topping the list were product quality, occupational health and safety, energy efficiency, circular economy practices, and ethical supply chain management. These priorities were then translated into SMART targets—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound goals that align with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The implications for the energy sector are significant. As Gök points out, “Energy efficiency is not just an environmental imperative; it’s a business opportunity. By reducing energy consumption, these SMEs can lower their operational costs and enhance their competitiveness.”
The study offers a roadmap for implementation, demonstrating how materiality-driven strategies can enhance both organizational performance and global sustainability outcomes. It’s a practical guide for SMEs to operationalize sustainability, bridging the gap between theory and practice.
This research is a beacon for the textile industry and beyond, illustrating how stakeholder engagement and materiality assessment can drive meaningful change. As the world grapples with escalating environmental and social challenges, such studies provide a blueprint for industries to transform sustainably.
In the words of Gök, “Sustainability is not a choice; it’s a strategic imperative. And for SMEs, it’s an opportunity to innovate, to differentiate, and to thrive in an increasingly conscious market.”
The study’s findings could shape future developments in the field, encouraging more SMEs to adopt similar approaches and driving a sector-wide shift towards sustainability. It’s a testament to the power of collaboration, stakeholder engagement, and strategic prioritization in driving sustainable transformation.