Corporate Social Responsibility: What It Is and Why It Matters

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is a business approach which considers the environmental and social impact of business decisions. CSR goes beyond legal compliance and involves taking steps to make improvements in the lives of employees, customers, communities, and the environment.

There are several ways that companies can practice CSR. Some common examples include: 

  • Donating to charity or non-profit organisations. 
  • Providing employee benefits that go beyond the minimum requirements. 
  • Using environmentally friendly materials and practices. 
  • Supporting diversity and inclusion initiatives. 
  • Engaging in community outreach programs. 


CSR is important for several reasons. First, it can help companies to build a positive reputation and attract and retain customers, clients and employees. Second, it can help reduce the company’s environmental impact and improve its long-term sustainability. Third, it can contribute towards a more just and equitable society.
 

There is a wealth of evidence showing that CSR can be good for business. A study by the World Economic Forum discovered that companies with strong CSR practices are more likely to outperform their competitors financially. Another study by the Harvard Business Review found that companies with strong CSR practices are more likely to attract and retain top talent. 

Of course, there are some challenges associated with CSR. It can be difficult to measure the impact of CSR initiatives, and it can be costly to implement them. Furthermore, some companies may view CSR as a distraction from their core business goals. 

Despite these challenges, CSR is an important concept that is becoming increasingly important to businesses and consumers alike. Companies which choose to embrace CSR can build a stronger reputation, attract and retain top talent, and improve their long-term sustainability. 

Specific examples of how companies are practicing CSR: 

  • Ben & Jerry’s is a company that is well known for its commitment to social responsibility. The company donates 7.5% of its pre-tax profits to charitable causes, and it has a strong focus on environmental sustainability. 
  • Nike has several initiatives in place to improve the lives of its employees, such as providing them with access to healthcare and education. This company also works to reduce its environmental impact by using recycled materials and by manufacturing its products in factories that meet high standards of labor practices. 
  • Google has a few initiatives in place to promote diversity and inclusion, such as its Women Techmakers program and its Black Founders Fund. Google also works to reduce its environmental impact by using renewable energy and by developing new technologies to help reduce carbon emissions. 


As CSR becomes increasingly important to businesses and consumers alike, we can expect to see even more companies taking steps to become more responsible.
 

The iProtectU health and safety software provides: 

  • An inspection and Audit App which allows for safety inspection of the workplace and associated report 
  • eLearning on a wide range of EHS topics 
  • Scheduling functionality for managers to send eLearning, risk assessments and documents out to all staff via the software with tracks completion and compliance 
  • Risk assessment templates covering a wide range of work activities, events and equipment use 
  • Management system to document control the policies 
  • Method Statement module for the creation of work activity working instructions 
  • Legal register that provides legislation guidance on various EHS subjects 
  • Incident investigation module that tracks incidents both with an app and via desktop 
  • Hazard observation app where staff can report and record any concerns to the organisation 
  • Asset management App ensuring assets are recorded in the software 

Share on social media

Arrange your demonstration

Let us show you how we can transform your compliance management

Choose a date and time for your demo (no obligation) and we will be in touch.

Latest Updates & Information

The future of Health and Safety software – today! Leaders in EHS Software, GRC Software, safety, risk, governance and compliance software