Author(s): Jessica Izidoro
This study analyzed the relationship between the internationalization process and green innovation of exporting companies in the cities of Uberlândia and Ribeirão Preto, as well as the promotion of competitive advantages and expected benefits through partnerships with the government and third-sector organizations. The research sample consisted of 122 exporting companies from Uberlândia and Ribeirão Preto, obtained from the "Lists of Exporting and Importing Companies" provided by the Secretariat of Foreign Trade (SECEX), between the years 2019 and 2021. Structural Equation Modeling was used for analysis to examine the relationship between the variables. The main findings revealed that despite some limitations regarding the expected benefits and competitive advantages provided by Green Innovation to companies, the internationalization process is positively aligned with Green Innovation practices, in line with UN Sustainable Development Goals 8, 9, and 17 of the 2030 Agenda. Thus, it was evident that with organizations increasingly engaged in promoting sustainable actions, aspects such as improving quality of life, preserving biodiversity, reducing social inequality, and enhancing the economy through eco-efficiency are becoming more apparent, creating a balance in the social, economic, and environmental domains.