Sustainable Business Process Management in the FMCG Sector

Purpose: This paper aims to analyse how green practices are incorporated across business processes (operational, support, and management) within various stages of the process management cycle and what metrics are used to assess the implementation of Green BPM. Design/Methodology/Approach: The computer-assisted telephone interview (CAWI) method was used to survey the chief executive officer [CEO] or other equivalent operations executives of FMCG sector companies. The research sample was eventually composed of 150 entities operating in Poland. Data were tested for construct reliability using Cronbach’s Alpha and further descriptive statistics were used for understanding the implementation of Green BPM practices and metrics. Findings: Results reveal that Green BPM practices are most extensively present in operational processes, particularly in the implementation phase. Common practices followed by the FMCG companies include energy, water consumption or waste reduction. A possible area for improvement that was identified is the use of recycled or eco-friendly resources. Finally, energy and water usage are widely monitored and metrics associated with the use of such resources are in place. Practical Implications: The findings highlight the potential of Green BPM in advancing sustainability within FMCG. By implementing Green BPM, companies can improve operational efficiency, comply with environmental regulations, and improve customer and stakeholder perceptions. The adoption of green metrics and practices can also support ESG strategies and reporting, as well as competitive positioning. Originality/Value: The paper extends the literature by focusing on the FMCG sector, a field with significant environmental impacts and sustainability potential. The research also highlights the operationalisation of Green BPM, focusing on different levels of process structures as well as phases within the process management cycle. Finally, the study stresses the importance of integrating environmental metrics into traditional performance frameworks to drive continuous improvement and sustainability-focused transformation.