A Study of Exploring Sustainable Management Practices: Non-Governmental Organization Projects in Trincomalee District

Abstract

Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) play a vital role as the driving force for positive change, and their contribution to sustainable management is particularly prominent in this fast-evolving world. In recent years, Sustainable management techniques have been given more attention by NGOs, highlighting their growing significance. Trincomalee faces challenges in implementing sustainable management practices in NGOs, leading to increased costs, delays, and reduced quality. The insufficient integration of sustainable management practices significantly contributes to project failures within these NGOs. Moreover, there exists a research gap concerning sustainable management practices, particularly within NGOs operating in the Trincomalee district. This research is an attempt to identify the best sustainable management practices applied to projects in Sri Lankan non-governmental organizations. It explores how sustainable management is focused on NGOs' contribution to accomplish the projects and highlights the unique aspects and focus areas of sustainability management within the broader management field in Sri Lankan non-governmental organizations. Furthermore, two sub-objectives emerge from this study. It aims to identify the sustainable management practices employed in projects carried out by non-governmental organizations in the Trincomalee district, and to assess the feasibility of integrating sustainable management practices into these projects. The research aims to utilize a qualitative approach. To achieve this, the researcher selected five non-governmental organizations currently engaged in projects within the Trincomalee district. Thereby, interviews were conducted with the project officers associated with these organizations. In addition to this it explores the importance of sustainable management practices in the environmental, economic, and social aspects of a project. It highlights the need for compliance with local regulations, efficient energy and resource usage, and minimizing waste. Environmental practices include awareness programs, training, and reducing non- biodegradable waste. Economic practices involve job creation, technological innovation, and the development of green products. Social practices focus on worker rights, safer working conditions, partnerships, and increased disclosure of information. These practices can improve the growth of organizations and lead to successful project output.