Qualidade 4.0 como motor para a sustentabilidade corporativa: uma abordagem para integração da estratégia ESG nas operações empresariais

Abstract

With global population growth, sustainability has become a crucial concern for society. Preserving natural resources such as water, air, land, and biodiversity is essential to ensure long-term survival. In this context, reducing emissions of pollutants (e.g., CO₂) and adopting cleaner energy sources are highly relevant steps that positively impact climate conditions, air quality, and biodiversity. Given this concern, comprehensive literature research was conducted. Bibliometric and morphological analyses revealed a lack of studies addressing the application of the Quality 4.0 (Q4.0) concept aligned with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategies at strategic, tactical, and especially operational levels in manufacturing processes. The main purpose of this thesis was to design and refine an innovative method, based on the Q4.0 approach, to address critical challenges in integrating ESG strategy into business operations. To achieve this goal, a Design Science Research (DSR) method was used to develop a method capable of online diagnosis and decision-making support, identifying improvement areas with reasonable accuracy. This method focused on applying advanced technologies for data collection and real-time process monitoring, enabling precise, instantaneous assessment of the company’s environmental, social, and governance performance at strategic, tactical, and operational levels, aligned with ESG criteria. Practical application was carried out on a production line in collaboration with a medium-to-large engineering and technology company located in the metropolitan area, which met the requirements and showed interest in developing this objective. To address the challenges of integrating an ESG strategy, accurate and verifiable ESG assessment metrics had to be developed, along with solutions that apply Quality 4.0- enabling technologies. Demonstration and evaluation of the proposed solution were also essential steps. It should be noted that this work did not aim to develop sensors or software; it was limited to demonstrating the concept of a method intended for a random dataset and subsequently applied at the partner company, with guidance for Q4.0 and strategic integration of the ESG aspect. With the successful implementation of this method, its application is expected to be extended to other manufacturing processes and adapted to similar applications. This could make a significant contribution to science by addressing critical challenges in integrating ESG strategy into business operations. Thus, the pursuit of sustainability will often result in innovations, with the implementation of more resource-efficient technologies and processes, providing competitive advantages in the market and improving quality of life in a more orchestrated society.