By Nate Bristol
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is the concept of a company not only existing to help customers through a product or service, but to help the greater community through moral and ethical practices. Whether it’s by utilizing sustainable materials, ensuring fair working conditions, or donating money, companies engage in a myriad of methods to fulfill that social responsibility.
Don’t forget to recycle!
In recent years, CSR has seen itself become more popular, predominant, and expected from companies by consumers. Lamar University helps highlight this phenomenon in their quote, “According to a 2021 IBM study, 84% of global consumers consider sustainability important when choosing a brand.” While this study likely includes the majority of age groups, Gen Z is definitely the figurehead for this growing movement.
People use their voice, purchasing power, and social media to point out injustices or malpractices that they notice in society and brands. Part of how this movement continues to gain popularity and traction is the accountability and standards it imposes on brands. If they are caught in the spotlight for the wrong reason, it can very easily turn their recent success into a present nightmare.
A recent example would be with Spotify, who saw their CEO step down after controversy came out regarding him. He was using his vast income from being the CEO of one of the largest digital streaming platforms to invest in an AI surveillance and military company. The public was quick to let him know what they thought, with a number of artists removing their catalogs from streaming. While this is only one of many examples in past years, it is expected to see this trend to continue to grow. America is built upon the diversity and beauty in the many voices and characteristics of its people, and seeing them engage with companies and work with them to create ideal working environments is inspiring.
For every case like Spotify, there are companies that listen and adopt better practices. A perfect example would be Delta Airlines, who has begun working to create sustainable fuel for airlines to help combat fossil fuel usage.
Seeing negative headlines about malpractices or CEO controversy may be demoralizing, but it always helps to remember that there is just as much good to focus on in this world as bad. By raising the bar and expectations of companies, society at large can create a gold standard of giving back to communities, creating sustainable practices, and helping charities and people in need. CSR is here to stay, and will hopefully continue to remain a positive light in the business world.
