New competences and innovation management practives related to sustainable development

Abstract

Environment issues have induced firms to search and develop cleaner technologies and production practices. This process has created new business opportunities that are related to sustainable production and to the conservation of the environment. This paper aims at understanding the implications of innovation trajectories based on the development of sustainable products and technologies for innovation management practices and the related managerial competencies. The study explores the case of a Brazilian leading cosmetic manufacturer - Natura through secondary data of the company and its industry; and primary data by means of interviews with professionals of the research and development, strategy and marketing areas of Natura. The results show that the company presents a capability of perception of the technological and market opportunities when developing products for market niches not explored, besides the effort for implementating routines entirely new for the company and the mobilization of resources and competencies in its technological innovation management.