The ecological footprint reduction practices of Moroccan SMEs: constraints or opportunities

Abstract

This study examines the determinants of the adoption of ecological footprint reduction practices by Moroccan SMEs, using institutional theory as an analytical framework. The main objective is to understand how institutional pressures and financial constraints influence SMEs' decisions while assessing the opportunities that these practices can offer. The research sample comprises 254 Moroccan SMEs selected to ensure a diverse representation of economic sectors. The empirical analysis is based on a binary logit model, chosen for its ability to evaluate the probability of adopting ecological practices given the binary nature of the dependent variable (adoption or not). The results reveal that coercive pressures related to environmental regulations have a positive and significant impact, encouraging SMEs to adopt sustainable practices. Normative pressures also play an important role, reflecting the influence of societal expectations and business partners. However, mimetic pressures show no significant effect, indicating that imitation of sector leaders is not a determining factor. Opportunities, such as access to new markets and reputation enhancement, prove to be important levers, but financial constraints remain a major obstacle for many SMEs.