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Social and environmental responsibility: doing the right thing

By Bruce Nixon (December 2004 Issue)
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At the beginning of the 21st century, sustainability, in the broadest sense, is the biggest issue facing business. Business is, and for a long time has been, a major driving force for good and innovation in society. However, it is equally capable of doing harm. The influence and power of business has grown enormously. The economies of many large corporations are as large, or larger, than some small nations. National governments have to woo them in their desire to create favourable conditions for investment in their countries. They exert great influence on global institutions and world trade policies. The seriousness of the situation is not to be underestimated.

Part of the reaction to this situation has been the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) industry. Many people involved in CSR believe that sustainability and social responsibility need to be at the heart of the corporate strategy and the life-blood of an organisation. This will require a fundamental shift in awareness, attitudes and values. Business leaders will need to act in a socially and environmentally responsible way because it’s the right thing to do. Essentially, this means withdrawing from harmful activities and identifying opportunities and markets for new or improved products and services that are sustainable. There are three levels of CSR that companies can demonstrate. ...

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