Yeşil İhracat Stratejisinin Öncüllerinin ve Sonuçlarının Belirlenmesine Yönelik Keşifsel Bir Araştırma

Abstract

Over the past three decades, there has been significant global interest in climate change. In this respect, green export strategies, incorporating environmental sensitivities into businesses' overseas activities, are perceived as crucial by both enterprises and the public in Türkiye. Accordingly, the aim of this study is to identify the antecedents of green export strategy for export-oriented businesses operating in Turkey, the factors hindering the implementation of green export strategies, and the positive and negative effects and outcomes of these strategies on businesses. To achieve this, data were collected through in-depth interviews with top executives of 20 producer-exporter firms based in Ankara. The collected data were analyzed using a combination of descriptive and content analysis methods. The findings of the study indicate that while exporters have adopted green strategies, the most prevalent strategy is related to reporting efforts. This is followed by strategies aimed at reducing fossil fuel consumption, waste management, and fostering sustainability awareness. The primary factor positively influencing green export strategies has been market development and expectations. This is followed by strategies such as cost reduction, environmental sensitivity, domestic public regulations, and building corporate reputation. The main factor negatively affecting green export strategies has been local market inadequacies. This is followed by a lack of awareness, supplier, and raw material issues. Exporters predominantly expect non-monetary contributions to the firm (e.g., enhancing corporate image) as an outcome of green export strategies. This is followed by financial outcomes, environmental impacts, and outcomes related to the firm's employees. Among the realized outcomes of green export strategies, financial impacts rank first. This is followed by non-monetary contributions to the firm and outcomes related to the firm's employees. The findings of the study are expected to assist businesses in the selection of green export strategies. Additionally, the study is anticipated to be beneficial for public policymakers in supporting and developing policies related to the green strategies that businesses choose to implement.