Business 198 — Case Study Research Guide

Polk Library • Use this guide to find credible sources and build your MLA-formatted case study on sustainability claims.

Project Snapshot

3–4 pages • MLA

Choose a company that claims to be sustainable.

Identify the claim on the company site, then use at least two academic database articles (2020–present) to

support or refute that claim. Avoid blogs, Wikipedia, and company PR.

Step 1 — Collect the claim

Visit the company’s official sustainability / CSR / ESG pages. Copy the exact wording of the claim and note the

 page URL (you will cite this in MLA). Keep screenshots or archived links if the wording might change.

Step 2 — Suggested Databases

Start with the Polk Library Business databases. Aim for peer-reviewed or industry-trade articles that analyze

corporate sustainability, environmental impact, or supply-chain practices:

• • Business Source Premier
  • ProQuest One Business
  • Academic Search Complete
  • EconLit
  • Regional Business News
  • Wall Street Journal

Search Examples

"Nike" AND sustainability AND "supply chain"

"Tesla" AND "carbon neutrality" AND (policy OR lifecycle)

"greenwashing" AND ("Volkswagen" OR automotive)

Step 3 — Evaluate the evidence

Ask: Is the source independent? Does it provide data or rigorous analysis?

Step 4 — Writing & MLA tips

Use MLA 9th edition. Every non-common-knowledge fact must have an in-text citation.

Library Guide for MLA Formatting