Structural analysis of the strategic orientation to environmental protection in SMEs

This paper examines the extent to which the information on Social Responsibility (SR) that managers of firms in the Autonomous Community of Extremadura in Spain have determined their positive predisposition towards the practical exercise of environmentally responsible actions. With the theoretical background of Market Orientation (MO), a conceptual model of causal relationships is defined and is contrasted empirically with a structural equations model for a sample of 758 SME's in Extremadura. The results verify that the greater the concern for seeking and receiving information about SR, the greater the tendency towards environmentally responsible management, and the greater the importance given to the disclosure of the SR the firm itself practises. Consequently, the provision of information, awareness, and training related to SR promoted by managers or fostered by business organizations and public administrations will have a positive effect on the orientation towards environmental protection.