SUSTAINABLE MANAGEMENT OF THE SUPPLY CHAIN AND INNOVATION PERFORMANCE: A MULTICASE STUDY ON THE BRAZILIAN MINERAL SECTOR

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the association between the sustainable management of the supply chain and the innovation performance of the production process in companies in the Brazilian mineral sector. To achieve this goal we used based on the theoretical assumptions of Pagell and Wu (2009), Makkonen and Van Der Have (2012) and Gunday et al. (2011). The study has a qualitative approach and exploratory and descriptive nature. As a research strategy, we used the multi case study method, developed from exploratory interviews and documentary research. Among the main results, it was possible to highlight, in two cases, the proactive provision in favor of policies and actions that contribute to the sustainability of the supply chain, given that it was possible to demonstrate the adoption of sustainable practices and innovation in processes in Coal and Iron-Nickel companies. Furthermore, the company Coal II, the guiding assumption of the study could not be corroborated by the evidence. The results suggest that the organizations operating in the Brazilian mineral sector is seeking to meet the demands of its stakeholders, particularly with regard to investment in sustainable actions related environmental and social dimensions.