The Impact of Environmental Certification on Internationalisation: A Study in the Portuguese Market

Pinto, I., Soares, A. M., & Pinto, L. (2025). The impact of environmental certification on internationalisation: A study in the Portuguese market. Journal of International Business and Sustainability, 13(1). https://doi.org/10.13044/J.SDEWES.D13.0546This study explores how ISO 14001 environmental certification influences the internationalization strategies of Portuguese industrial firms. Through interviews with certified companies and sectoral organizations, the research identifies key motivations and outcomes. Externally, ISO 14001 is driven by increasing demands from international clients, regulatory compliance, and trade requirements. Internally, companies pursue it to improve operational efficiency, environmental performance, and global reputation. While costly at first—due to audits, training, and equipment—certification is viewed as a long-term investment with benefits such as cost savings, improved processes, and energy efficiency. Firms implement sustainable practices like water reuse, waste reduction, and energy monitoring. ISO 14001 is found to enhance credibility, foster trust in foreign markets, and support competitive differentiation. It also helps reduce informational asymmetries and boosts firms’ ability to charge premium prices or attract investment. Despite barriers like bureaucracy, costs, and lack of environmental culture, the certification proves crucial for gaining international recognition, improving market access, and promoting sustainable development.