Abstract:

Over recent decades, society has developed a greater understanding of the context in which economic activities take place, as well as of the environmental, social, and economic impacts they generate in the short, medium, and long term. In this scenario, companies have increasingly assumed a more active role in the preservation of natural resources, moving beyond regulatory compliance and promoting sustainable practices that involve not only their internal structures, but also employees, customers, and suppliers. This transformation highlights the importance of integrating sustainability as a cross-cutting axis in academic training within the field of business.

This research analyzes the relevance of incorporating sustainable actions into business education, based on a study conducted with 30 students enrolled in the Master’s Program in Business Administration for Sustainability at the Escuela Superior de Comercio y Administración Santo Tomás of the Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico. The objective of the study was to identify how the inclusion of sustainability-oriented content and methodologies influences the development of a more responsible business perspective aligned with the principles of sustainable development.

The methodology adopted a qualitative and participatory approach, based on the analysis of multiple case studies and the implementation of classroom-based learning dynamics. Throughout the course, topics such as clean production, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and other sustainability strategies applicable to the business sector were addressed. These activities promoted critical reflection on traditional management models and encouraged the exploration of alternatives that integrate economic performance, social responsibility, and environmental protection.

In addition, key values and concepts such as altruism, balance, competitiveness, and social contribution were explored, enabling students to relate business decision-making processes to their effects on the environment and society. The results indicate that integrating sustainability into business education strengthens students’ environmental awareness and enhances their capacity to design organizational strategies oriented toward sustainability.

Keywords:

Business education; sustainability; clean production; Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).