An evolution in sustainable development: Integrating new semi-quantitative assessment model with strategic management (Insights from the mineral sector)

Abstract

Sustainable development is crucial for ensuring the future of the environment, humanity, and industries. As a result, researchers across various disciplines have sought to expand sustainable practices within their fields. Since its introduction in 1992, sustainable development has made significant progress. Numerous models have been developed to assess sustainable development levels, with two-dimensional matrix-based models gaining the most attention. However, many of these models have two major limitations. First, they often need to specify the performance of individual indicators before they present the overall level of sustainability. Second, most models merely provide a sustainability score without offering a strategic plan to improve sustainability levels. In this article, we present a new model based on a two-dimensional matrix that addresses both of these issues. The model is generic, applicable across industries, and user-friendly. We applied this model to the mining industry, specifically at the Mehdi-abad mine, the second-largest lead and zinc mine in the world. The results showed the sustainability levels for the environmental, social, and economic indicators in the mine were 0.231, 0.23, and 0.016, respectively. The overall sustainability level, considering the weight of each indicator based on Iran’s context, was 0.147. By following the strategic plan outlined in this study, which provides a clear path for sustainability improvement, the sustainability level of the mine could improve in the short, medium, and long term to 0.199, 0.387, and 0.553, respectively. This suggests that the mine’s sustainability can progress from a poor level at the time of review to a good level in the long term with proper implementation of the suggested strategies, instilling reassurance and confidence in the model’s effectiveness.