SDGs in Action: Exploring Stakeholder Engagement for Sustainable Development

Abstract: Background: As the Earth heads towards the zone of exceedance, there is a highlighted importance in contributing towards sustainable development. The sustainable development goals (SDGs), introduced by the United Nations, act as guidance to integrate environmental, social, and economic aspects, to ensure a sustainable future.  However, research is missing on the interconnection between the need to engage stakeholders in the Port and the SDGs. Researching the port of Le Havre is used as an example to demonstrate an in-depth analysis of the actors’ activities and their level of engagement regarding sustainability. Purpose: This thesis aims to analyze the sustainability strategies taken by the stakeholders in the port industry based in the port of Le Havre and identify the key elements to achieve the SDGs by engaging the stakeholders.  Method: The study aligns with an interpretive analysis, where qualitative multiple exploratory case studies were carried out. Through semi-structured interviews, the researchers were able to assess the sustainable activities realized by the stakeholders. By analyzing the data using a coding procedure, five aggregate dimensions emerged. Conclusion: This study suggests that the stakeholders and their awareness of sustainability are essential to achieve the SDGs. In addition to this conclusion, the findings also suggest they should act collectively towards meeting the SDGs, to ensure a holistic and long-lasting strategy towards sustainability.