To be or not to be a business responsible for sustainable development? Survey from small Czech businesses

Abstract

Sustainable development is influenced by the activities of both large businesses and small- and medium-sized businesses. The aim of this article is to identify the attitude of small businesses to sustainable development. The article presents the results of empirical research among managers of small businesses in the Czech Republic. A multi-criteria decision-making method (analytic hierarchy process) was used for the evaluation of relationship of these managers to sustainable development. A benefits, opportunities, costs and risks approach was applied for the structuring of the elements. The significance of the individual elements has been detected using Saaty's method. Three alternatives were formulated about the benefits to be a business that is interested in sustainability development. It was identified that the alternative, it is advantageous to be business interesting in sustainability development' is the most preferred. On the other hand, it was also identified, that managers will be responsible for sustainability development and their attitude must bring them benefits. This article contributes to the fulfilment of the research gap in the field of research related to small businesses and their surroundings. Identified impacts can be used for practical creation of conditions which would further encourage small businesses to take a proactive approach to sustainability development.