Integrating Systems Thinking for Sustainability: Aligning Business Purpose in SMEs using the MESS framework

With growing concerns over resource depletion, environmental degradation, and social inequity, sustainable development has become a global priority. By embracing systems thinking, businesses can harmonise their purpose with long-term sustainability, navigate complexity, encourage innovation, and cultivate resilient, purpose-centred organisations, irrespective of their unique context. SMEs play a vital role in most countries, acting as engines of economic growth and social development. Despite their significance, the varied nature of SMEs—encompassing different sizes, industries, and contexts—poses challenges for defining and achieving sustainability goals.