Developing sustainability competencies through transformative learning: a viewpoint

Purpose The viewpoint assesses the importance of learning and development (L&D) programs in developing sustainability-focused organizational competencies. L&D is crucial for integrating sustainability principles across organizations at all levels. Design/methodology/approach The article is grounded in contemporary research and Transformative Learning Theory. It helped in exploring L&D initiatives that drive transformation as well as critical reflection regarding sustainability integration. Findings The transformative learning processes encourage sustainability-based competency, cultural transformation, systems thinking, and meaningful behavioral change. It challenges traditional compliance-based training by emphasizing deeper learning experiences. Research limitations/implications This viewpoint is conceptual and theory-driven that limits its generalizability across organizational contexts. Practical implications Organizations should integrate transformative learning into L&D for sustainability. It would foster critical consciousness and systemic changes. Originality/value This viewpoint uses transformative learning theory as a framework for L&D interventions to achieve true sustainability.