Social Responsibility Initiatives Research Articles

Global Leadership and Sustainability

This research article delves into the dynamic relationship between global leadership and sustainability, underscoring the critical influence that leaders wield in guiding organizations towards sustainable practices. As global challenges such as environmental degradation, climate change, and social inequality become more pressing, the need for leaders who can navigate these complexities and foster sustainable growth becomes increasingly urgent. This paper explores the essential qualities of global leaders who prioritize sustainability, the innovative strategies they employ, and the tangible impacts of their efforts on both organizational performance and broader societal well-being. We begin by identifying the characteristics that distinguish effective global leaders in the realm of sustainability. These leaders are visionary thinkers with a long-term perspective that balances economic success with environmental and social responsibility. They are ethically oriented, ensuring that their decisions reflect a commitment to the greater good. Their cultural sensitivity allows them to appreciate the global implications of local actions, and their adaptability and drive for innovation enable them to foster a culture of continuous improvement within their organizations. The article then examines specific strategies that these leaders use to embed sustainability into their organizational frameworks. This includes aligning their organizational goals with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), implementing comprehensive Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, investing in green technologies, and engaging stakeholders in meaningful ways. These strategies are illustrated through case studies of companies like Patagonia and Unilever, which have successfully integrated sustainability into their business models under visionary leadership. Furthermore, the paper highlights the positive outcomes that organizations experience when they prioritize sustainability. Enhanced brand reputation, improved financial performance, effective risk management, and higher employee engagement are some of the key benefits. Companies known for their sustainable practices often attract loyal customers and talented employees, achieve cost savings through efficient resource use, and open up new market opportunities. The article emphasizes that global leadership and sustainability are deeply interconnected in today’s world. Leaders who embrace sustainability drive not only organizational success but also contribute significantly to global efforts towards creating a more equitable and sustainable future. As environmental and social challenges continue to intensify, the role of global leaders in promoting and implementing sustainable practices is more crucial than ever. This research underscores the necessity for visionary, ethical, culturally sensitive, and innovative leadership to navigate the complexities of sustainability and lead organizations towards a sustainable future.

Social Impact Assessment of Corporate Social Responsibility Initiatives: Evaluating the Social Return on Investment of an Inclusion Offer

Social Impact Assessment of Corporate Social Responsibility Initiatives: Evaluating the Social Return on Investment of an Inclusion Offer

The impact of earnings opacity on corporate social responsibility: insights from Vietnamese listed firms

PurposeThis paper studies the association between earnings opacity and corporate social responsibility disclosures of firms listed on the Vietnamese Stock Exchange.Design/methodology/approachWe utilize a dataset comprising a sample of all listed Vietnamese firms for the period of 2014–2022. Data regarding corporate social responsibility information are gathered manually. Following Dechow et al. (1995), Kothari et al. (2005) and Bhattacharya et al. (2003), earnings opacity is measured by using three proxies, including abnormal accruals, earnings smoothing and loss avoidance. Our hypothesis was tested via ordinary least squares (OLS) regressions. To address endogeneity problems, we use the two-stage instrumental variable method (IV-2SLS) as well as the generalized method of moments (GMM) to ensure the robustness of our results.FindingsWe find that earnings opacity is positively related to corporate social responsibility disclosures. Cross-sectional analyses indicate that managers of firms disguise their opportunistic behaviour by disclosing more information about corporate social responsibility. The evidence also shows that firms experience long-run underperformance when having higher earnings opacity and greater sustainability disclosures. Our results remain robust even after correcting for endogeneity using the IV approach and the GMM method.Practical implicationsEvidence from this study can serve as a warning signal to the investment community, highlighting that some methods aimed at enhancing a firm’s corporate social responsibility disclosures might be used to obstruct other unethical activities. Moreover, the results of this study can help regulators gain a better comprehension of firms' reporting patterns concerning corporate social responsibility initiatives. It should not only reform the corporate social responsibility regulation but also impose stronger litigation for firms to enhance the quality of corporate social responsibility disclosures.Originality/valueWe are the first to present evidence regarding the relationship between earnings opacity and corporate social responsibility disclosure in Vietnam.

Authentic Leadership and Socially Responsible Behavior: Sequential Mediation of Psychological Empowerment and Psychological Capital and Moderating Effect of Perceived Corporate Social Responsibility

The aim of the study is to explore the relationship between authentic leadership and socially responsible behavior among employees in Saudi Arabia’s service sector, which aligns with Saudi Vision 2030. Utilizing social cognitive theory as the theoretical framework, the research proposes that authentic leadership indirectly influences socially responsible behavior through psychological empowerment and psychological capital as parallel and serial mediators. Additionally, the study examines the moderating effect of CSR perceptions on these relationships. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 349 professionals from the service sector. The results, analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM), revealed that authentic leadership does not directly impact SRB. Instead, the relationship is fully mediated by psychological empowerment and psychological capital. Moreover, CSR perceptions significantly moderate the relationship between authentic leadership and psychological empowerment and have an indirect effect of authentic leadership on SRB through psychological empowerment and psychological capital. The findings highlight the importance of fostering an authentic leadership style and the way the psychological resources of empowerment and psychological capital carry forward this effect to promote SRB in the service sector. Additionally, the study underscores the role of CSR perceptions in strengthening the impact of authentic leadership on employee outcomes. The research contributes to the literature on leadership, CSR, and employee behavior and also offers practical implications for organizations aiming to enhance their social responsibility initiatives.

Purchase intention of brands with corporate social responsibility among generations Y and Z consumers in Chile

AbstractBrands around the world are recognizing the importance of committing to sustainable development through corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives. However, the literature shows scant empirical understanding of the purchase intention of younger consumers of Generations Y and Z regarding brands that engage in CSR initiatives. Drawing on the theory of planned behavior (TPB), the objective of this study is to develop and test an extended model of purchase intention for brands with CSR initiatives among the segment of Gen Y and Z consumers. The model is tested using an online survey applied to Chilean consumers and statistically analyzed using the structural equation modeling (SEM) technique. The findings show that attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control are significantly and directly related to the consumer's intention to purchase brands that demonstrate CSR initiatives. Further, consumer involvement and trust in brands' CSR initiatives have an indirect but significant effect on purchase intention through their impact on attitude. This research contributes to the literature on CSR and branding by addressing the role of consumers in supporting brands, which contribute to sustainable consumption. Findings can help brand managers and policymakers implement strategies to encourage consumer support for CSR initiatives.

Nexus between Western and Chinese crude oil mining firms: An examination of modalities, practices, and socio-ecological ramifications

This study examines the operational methods, procedures, and socio-ecological impacts of Western and Chinese crude oil extraction industries, focusing on regional variations. Due to institutional dynamics, the study reveals distinct emissions patterns among state-owned sectors in China and the Western Union region. This was achieved by employing DID regression models, using a sample of 60 crude oil mining companies. Furthermore, the data demonstrates that intensifying research and development endeavors directly correlate with pollution reduction, indicating that technological advancements could foster a greater sense of environmental consciousness. Nevertheless, larger corporations emit more pollution, substantially utilizing resources and manufacturing. Both nations prioritize the government's role in reducing negative environmental impacts caused by pollution by implementing regulatory frameworks. Additionally, they focus on achieving long-term ecological sustainability through corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives. The paper suggests government involvement is necessary to enhance socio-ecological conditions at crude oil mining sites in Western and Chinese regions.

Stakeholder engagement and influence: Strategies for successful energy projects

In the energy sector, stakeholder engagement is a critical factor for the successful planning, execution, and operation of projects. Effective stakeholder engagement involves identifying, understanding, and addressing the interests and concerns of various stakeholders, including governments, communities, investors, and environmental groups. This paper explores the strategies for successful stakeholder engagement and influence in energy projects, highlighting their significance in ensuring project sustainability, compliance, and community support. Energy projects, ranging from renewable energy installations to fossil fuel extraction, impact a broad array of stakeholders. Each group has distinct interests and concerns that can significantly influence project outcomes. Proactive stakeholder engagement helps in building trust, gaining necessary approvals, and minimizing conflicts. It involves continuous communication, transparent processes, and active participation of stakeholders in decision-making. One effective strategy is the use of stakeholder mapping and analysis to identify all relevant parties and understand their influence and interests. This process helps in prioritizing stakeholders and tailoring engagement approaches accordingly. Early and ongoing dialogue with stakeholders is crucial for addressing concerns and incorporating feedback into project planning and implementation. Another key strategy is developing robust communication plans that include regular updates, public consultations, and information sessions. These activities ensure transparency and help build a positive relationship with the community and other stakeholders. Utilizing digital platforms and social media can enhance outreach and facilitate real-time communication. Collaborative approaches, such as forming advisory committees or partnerships with local organizations, can also strengthen stakeholder relationships. These partnerships can provide valuable insights and resources, fostering a sense of ownership and support among stakeholders. Additionally, implementing Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives that address local community needs can enhance project acceptance and create long-term benefits. Conflict resolution mechanisms are essential for addressing disputes that may arise during project execution. Establishing clear procedures for grievance redressal and involving neutral mediators can help resolve conflicts efficiently and maintain stakeholder trust. In conclusion, successful stakeholder engagement and influence in energy projects require a comprehensive and strategic approach. By identifying stakeholder interests, maintaining transparent communication, fostering collaboration, and addressing conflicts proactively, energy companies can enhance project sustainability, ensure compliance, and secure community support. These strategies not only facilitate project success but also contribute to the broader goals of sustainable development and social responsibility in the energy sector. Keywords: Stakeholder; Engagement; Influence; Strategies; Energy Projects.

Thriving in change: examining the influence of organizational sustainability on employee performance in the post-COVID landscape

Purpose The economic, financial and social crisis has heightened researchers' interest in the importance of organizational sustainability and resources (e.g. work engagement and psychological capital) for performance. Despite some studies demonstrating the significance of resources, such as work engagement and psychological capital, for workers’ performance, there is limited knowledge regarding the role of organizational sustainability practices (OSP) in the relationship mentioned above. Therefore, this study drew upon the social identity theory to conceptualize and test the mediating role of work engagement in the relationship between OSP and performance (both task and adaptive). Based on the conservation of resources theory, it was hypothesized that a worker's resource – psychological capital – would moderate the indirect relationship between social responsibility practices and performance (both task and adaptive). Design/methodology/approach To test the proposed model, 304 adults participated in a two-wave study. Findings The results supported the hypotheses, revealing that OSP had a positive and significant relationship with task and adaptive performance, occurring through work engagement. Furthermore, the indirect relationship between OSP and performance task and adaptive through work engagement was moderated by psychological capital, such that the relationship became stronger for workers with lower levels of psychological capital. Originality/value The relevance of this research lies in its ability to identify the conditions and mechanisms in which corporate social responsibility initiatives are most effective, thereby enabling a more nuanced application of these practices across different sectors and organizational cultures. This study's theoretical and practical implications may assist organizations in devising strategies for implementing social responsibility practices to enhance their outcomes.

Food waste reduction, corporate responsibility and national policies: evidence from Europe

PurposeThis paper investigates strategies for addressing the global challenge of food loss and waste (FLW) within the food industry. It examines the relationship between corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives and state regulatory interventions for reducing FLW.Design/methodology/approachThis mixed method study utilizes a unique panel dataset which includes the 150 largest food industry companies in Italy, Norway and the UK. It combines quantitative data analysis with qualitative insights derived from corporate strategies and corporate communications.FindingsThe analysis reveals that food companies with an established CSR strategy and in particular companies whose CSR reports highlight their environmental and social achievements are more likely to achieve in effective FLW reduction. Additionally, national-level regulatory interventions guided by European Union waste strategies act as pivotal benchmarks and encourage stricter corporate food waste management policies.Practical implicationsThis research underscores the significance of CSR strategies and effective state regulation in the fight against FLW and offers policymakers and businesses valuable insights enabling development of robust strategies.Social implicationsBy emphasizing the interplay between CSR and regulatory intervention, this research contributes to the achievement of a more sustainable and efficient global food system that addresses both economic and ethical concerns and could have far-reaching societal and environmental implications.Originality/valueThe paper sheds light on the interplay between CSR initiatives and regulatory interventions for tackling FLW and emphasizes their synergistic impact on sustainable practices within the food industry.

Volume and value of technological innovation: the role of corporate social responsibility and business architectural factors

The understanding of firm‐level drivers of technological innovation has been concentrated on a firm's core business related factors. How a firm's corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives impact a firm's technological innovation is notably understudied in the literature, even though business firms are increasingly recognizing the multifaceted impact of CSR on various corporate outcomes including technological advancements. This study bridges this gap by linking CSR to firm technological innovation as measured by both innovation volume and value. Furthermore, a set of business architectural factors, including market emphasis, related/unrelated diversification, and vertical integration, are incorporated as moderating factors to generate a granular understanding pertaining to CSR's innovation implications. We collected a large sample set, employed a series of robust empirical methods, and found that CSR has a consistently positive impact on both innovation volume and value, and the magnitude of these relationships differs across various business architectural factors. This study contributes to the innovation literature, strategic CSR theory, instrumental stakeholder theory, and provides useful guidelines for business practices.

Sustainable development goal 12 and its synergies with other SDGs: identification of key research contributions and policy insights

The relationships of SDG 12 (responsible consumption and production) with other sustainable development goals (SDGs), both direct and indirect, necessitate a systematic analysis to understand its pivotal role in achieving other SDGs. This work focuses on a threefold investigation through a scientometric framework. Initially, the study sought to map and analyze the naturally formed linkages between SDG 12 and other SDGs by examining the literature specifically devoted to SDG 12, thereby revealing the SDGs that are strongly linked to SDG 12. The subsequent phase of the investigation identified prominent topics related to SDG 12 that require detailed exploration. Finally, the selected topics are mined through a methodical approach termed flow vergence gradient analysis, allowing for the revelation of significant contributions within each topic. Through the analysis of the SDG linkage map, SDG 13 (climate action), SDG 7 (affordable and clean energy), SDG 11 (sustainable cities and communities), and SDG 15 (life on land), among others, were recognized as closely linked to SDG 12. Following this identification, five major topics—Industrial Symbiosis, Electronic waste, Carbon emissions, Life Cycle Assessment, and Green products—were deemed suitable for comprehensive mining to extract pivotal contributions. As policy recommendations, adopting a multifaceted approach to e-waste management and sustainable practices is imperative. Implementing consumption-based accounting (CBA) to achieve SDG 12 holistically will be useful. Businesses must align with circular economy principles, minimize hazardous materials, and adhere to low-emission, green supply chain practices. The emphasis is also on the need for proactive R&D collaboration with academia to meet SDG 12 targets, alongside engaging in community awareness through corporate social responsibility initiatives.

Corporate Social Responsibility and Consumer Behavior in Sports: Exploring and Adapting a Participatory Sports Scale

There has been a noticeable shift towards sustainability in participatory sport, emphasizing practices such as corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives. However, a credible international evaluation tool for assessing the effectiveness of CSR initiatives in sport and recreation services is lacking. This study aimed to adapt and validate a CSR questionnaire for Greek participatory sport, focusing on tennis. The influence of CSR on consumer trust and loyalty was also investigated. A sample of 250 tennis players from a private club in a Greek city participated. A questionnaire assessing CSR in environmental, economic, and social dimensions, was selected after an extensive literature review. Statistical analyses confirmed the questionnaire as a valid and reliable tool for assessing CSR among recreational sports participants. The results indicated that CSR initiatives significantly enhance participants’ trust in the club, which in turn bolsters the club’s credibility. However, CSR initiatives do not directly influence participants’ loyalty; instead, trust mediates the relationship between CSR and loyalty. This underscores the need to strategize on how to convert trust into sustained loyalty. The findings highlight the importance of CSR in building trust, protecting corporate reputation in times of crisis, and supporting long-term sustainability. They provide valuable insights for researchers and sport and recreation managers.

Reflecting the Community: Analysis of Local Residents’ Perception Concerning Corporate Social Responsibility Initiatives

Reflecting the Community: Analysis of Local Residents’ Perception Concerning Corporate Social Responsibility Initiatives

Brand transgression in corporate social responsibility era: empirical evidence from hospitality industry

ABSTRACT Consumers rely on prior information and interactions with the brands to develop their expectations through the firm's corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, but some adverse incidents violate the customer-brand relationship. In such circumstances, it is inevitable for the brands to understand how consumers react and how they can be managed strategically. Therefore, this research aims to determine the impact of brand transgression on brand retaliation and the mediating role of negative emotions between brand transgression and brand retaliation. Using attribution theory, this study determines the extent to which the relationship between brand transgression and negative emotions is moderated by brand love and the association between negative emotion and brand retaliation is moderated by positive word-of-mouth (WOM). The data was collected using a survey questionnaire from 357 consumers and analyzed using process macros analysis techniques. The findings show a positive linkage between brand transgression and brand retaliation among consumers in the hospitality industry. Lastly, this study confirmed that brand love weakens the positive relationship between brand transgression and negative emotions, and positive WOM weakens the positive relationship between negative emotions and brand retaliation.

Environmental, Social, and Governance practices on impulse buying tendency through young customer engagement

This research explores how customer engagement with the F&B brand’s dedication to social responsibility, sustainable business practices, and corporate governance influences impulsive buying. An online survey was requested, and a total of 322 participants were chosen for data analysis. To conduct statistical analysis, partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was used with the SmartPLS3 program. The findings reveal that F&B brands’ ESG practices (environmental, social, and governance) influence customer engagement and impulsive buying tendency. It confirms that strong ESG efforts lead to higher customer engagement, with the social pillar having the strongest impact. Engaged customers, especially those valuing ESG, are more likely to impulsively buy products aligning with their values. Based on the results, both theoretical and practical implications are suggested to focus on social responsibility initiatives like employee well-being and diversity programs, followed by using time-sensitive marketing like limited-edition items to create urgency and boost sales.

ЗАРУБІЖНИЙ ДОСВІД КОРПОРАТИВНОЇ СОЦІАЛЬНОЇ ВІДПОВІДАЛЬНОСТІ

In today's dynamic business landscape, the concept of social responsibility has gained prominence, prompting enterprises to reassess their roles and responsibilities in society. This article undertakes a thorough examination of the definitions of social responsibility proposed by a multitude of authors and scholars. By synthesizing these perspectives, we aim to provide a nuanced understanding that guides enterprises in their pursuit of ethical, sustainable, and socially impactful practices.The primary objective is to comprehensively investigate the relationship between Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives and business performance across various industries and geographic regions. Specifically, the article aims to achieve the following: Analyze the Effectiveness of CSR Practices: The article seeks to assess the effectiveness of different CSR initiatives undertaken by businesses. Measure Financial and Non-Financial Performance Metrics: The study will evaluate the impact of CSR initiatives on both financial performance indicators (e.g., revenue, profitability, stock performance) and non-financial metrics (e.g., brand reputation, customer loyalty, employee satisfaction). Assess Stakeholder Perceptions and Expectations: Understanding the perspectives of key stakeholders, including consumers, investors, employees, and regulatory bodies, is crucial in evaluating the effectiveness of CSR initiatives. Explore Industry and Regional Differences: Business environments vary significantly across industries and geographic regions, leading to diverse approaches to CSR adoption and implementation. Identify Opportunities and Challenges: examine the challenges and limitations associated with CSR implementation. This article provides actionable insights for businesses to leverage CSR initiatives effectively. By aligning CSR practices with stakeholder expectations, leveraging industry insights, and addressing associated challenges, companies can foster sustainable business practices. This not only optimizes business performance but also contributes positively to society. Integrating CSR into corporate strategies emerges as imperative for driving long-term success and societal impact, highlighting the importance of responsible business practices in today's dynamic landscape.

Enhancing Public Relations (PR) as the Focus of Integrated Marketing Communication (IMC) for CRG Indonesia

This study investigates methods to improve Public Relations (PR) within Integrated Marketing Communication (IMC) for CRG Indonesia, paying attention to the key challenges encountered in media relations, event management, and community engagement/Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). Through conducting qualitative analysis and interacting with stakeholders, the research has found that there is a requirement for content which can be tailored to specific locations, a more solid sustainability message, and enhanced digital interaction. The findings show that CRG’s current public relations strategies have to be better aligned with local sensitivities and company goals. The recommended enhancements involve establishing more robust media connections, implementing thorough event organization, and integrating corporate social responsibility initiatives to cultivate community confidence. The implementation plan utilizes digital platforms, establishes explicit CSR objectives, and adheres to a comprehensive timeline based on the AISAS (Attention, Interest, Search, Action, Share) model. This strategy ensures effective involvement and extensive understanding among all parties involved. By implementing such strategies, CRG Indonesia may enhance its prominence, convey its dedication to sustainability, and establish a robust public relations structure that aids both short-term and long-term business goals.

Cause-related marketing in tourism: how goal framing promotes consumer prosocial behaviours

Cause-related marketing is commonly regarded as an effective tool for tourism enterprises to bolster their commitment to sustainable practices, fostering environmental and social responsibility within their operations and offerings. However, despite this, there is limited research into the implementation of cause-related social marketing to achieve the sustainability goals of tourism enterprises. Consequently, this research leverages construal level theory to examine how goal framing in cause-related tourism marketing communications nudges consumers towards engaging in prosocial behaviours, with an explicit emphasis on the boundary conditions in which desired effects diminish. Results across two pilot studies and four scenario-based experiments demonstrate that the specific (vs. abstract) goal framing elicits a higher degree of prosocial behaviours through the critical role of empathy. Two moderating variables demonstrate the enhancement effect of specific goal framing is attenuated for consumers already high (vs. low) on the agreeableness trait and those who are primed with a cyclical (vs. linear) temporal perspective. Additional analyses and controls, including ruling out three alternative explanations, reinforce the reliability and validity of the results. This research provides evidence-based insights critical to amplify the effectiveness of cause-related corporate social responsibility initiatives in tourism, unveiling the specific mechanisms which underpin consumer responses to corporate social responsibility messages and communication framing. Future research should examine the critical role of goal framing in the social repositioning of tourism enterprises.

AN ANALYSIS ON THE ROLE OF STOCK BROKERAGE HOUSES IN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

This study investigates the role of stock brokerage houses in community development within the context of Bangladesh's capital market. Data and information are sourced from a variety of secondary sources, encompassing financial platforms like the Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) and Chittagong Stock Exchange (CSE), credible news websites such as Investing.com, published literature, and official reports from regulatory authorities such as the Bangladesh Bank and the Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (BSEC). Quantitative data spanning the period from 2010 to 2019 are meticulously extracted from stock exchange databases as well as the IMF World Economic Outlook database. These datasets are meticulously structured and analyzed using tables, charts, and graphs. Amidst challenges such as market collapses and the COVID-19 pandemic, the resilience and growth of Bangladesh's capital market are evaluated. The results reveal that brokerage houses have a significant impact on community development in Bangladesh. For instance, the total traded volume reached Tk. 2,169,597 million in 2017, marking an 82.08% increase from the previous year. Sector-wise turnover data showed consistent investment trends, particularly in manufacturing, financials, and pharmaceuticals. These investments have led to job creation and infrastructure development, highlighting the role of brokerage houses in fostering employment and socioeconomic advancement. Additionally, the adoption of online trading platforms has driven technological advancement and financial inclusion. The findings of this study suggest that brokerage houses are crucial intermediaries in the capital market, contributing to economic growth, financial inclusion, and community development through their investment activities and corporate social responsibility initiatives.

Corporate social responsibility: does risk-taking attitude matter?

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to understand the role of risk-taking attitude as an important antecedent to corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives. Design/methodology/approach The authors use regression models on a sample of 2,136 publicly traded US companies over a 10-year period. Findings Corporate risk-taking encourages the pursuit of CSR initiatives and internal (i.e. board strength) and external (i.e. financial analysts) corporate governance mechanisms strengthen that relationship. Originality/value While pursuing CSR initiatives involves financial and reputational risks that are evident by the variability in the outcomes (e.g. firm value) of firms that have historically undertaken CSR initiatives, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first paper to theoretically explain why risk-taking is an important antecedent to CSR and empirically test that relationship.