Abstract

This study aims to empirically test the relationships among the adoption of sustainability practices, business
performance and competitive advantage in Caribbean manufacturing firms. Seven dimensions of sustainable
manufacturing practices are conceptualized and tested against measures of business performance and
competitive advantage. Three hypothesized relationships are tested using the partial least squares structural
equation modeling (PLS-SEM) technique. The results show a negative relationship between the adoption of
sustainability practices and business performance. We also find that there is no significant relationship between
the adoption of sustainability practices and competitive advantage. However, we observe a significant positive
relationship between competitive advantage and business performance. Based on these findings, manufacturing
firms in developing regions, such as the Caribbean, are advised to pursue sustainability strategy implementation
with some vigor, but should base their choices on strategies that will enhance sustainability through improved
resource productivity, while improving business performance and competitive advantage.

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