Building Socially Sustainable Practices in Cement Industry: Measurement and Validation

Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to address the growing interest in social sustainability within the cement industry, particularly in developing countries, by introducing the concept of Cement Industry Social Sustainability (CISS). The research develops and validates a comprehensive measurement scale for CISS, focusing on the specific social dimensions of the cement industry.
Design/Methodology/Approach: Using a mixed-methods approach, the study integrates insights from in-depth interviews and survey data collected from the cement sector in Kashmir. Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) were conducted using AMOS software to ensure the reliability and validity of the CISS scale.
Findings: The study identifies three key dimensions of CISS: (1) Workers' Health & Safety, (2) Equity & Diversity, and (3) Fair Labor. A 38-item scale was validated, providing a robust tool to measure social sustainability practices in the cement industry.
Practical Implications: The findings offer actionable insights for policymakers and industry leaders to design targeted interventions promoting social sustainability. By adopting the validated CISS scale, organizations can systematically evaluate and improve their social practices.
Originality/Value: This research fills a significant gap in the literature by conceptualizing and operationalizing social sustainability in the cement industry, a relatively underexplored area. The validated CISS scale provides a novel framework for future research and practical application in the context of developing countries.