Redefining the corporation for a sustainable new economy

Abstract

‘Business as usual’ is a very certain path towards a very uncertain future. On the ‘business as usual’ trajectory, the achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), epitomizing the overarching goals of global society, is unlikely. A fundamental transition away from ‘business as usual’ and onto a sustainable path is necessary. However, the SDGs themselves do not seem informed by a recognition of a potential conflict between indefinite economic growth and planetary boundaries. This article posits that this is symptomatic of our economic system, and turns to the dominant business form – the corporation – to discuss its significance as a barrier to and potential as a driver for sustainability. Drawing on multi‐jurisdictional, comparative research, the article presents a reform proposal, challenging the shareholder‐primacy drive, and ending on a positive note with the potential of corporate contribution to systemic change.