Corporate social responsibility : the environmental case

Abstract

This thesis documents the research, design, development and implementation o f the environmental Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) reporting requirements for food and drinks sector companies. The research findings have been successfully implemented at a case study firm, Glanbia Ingredients, Ballyragget, Co. Kilkenny. An extensive literature review o f Corporate Social Responsibility and its drivers was undertaken and an approach to its implementation is presented. A review o f the environmental drivers which encourage and often dictate a company’s environmental responsibilities was conducted to determine an approach to environmental CSR. An overall picture o f the case study company’s current situation in respect o f these drivers was then required. In order for CSR reporting to benefit a company, exposure to environmental risks must be minimised. A planned programme o f CSR action points was then required to fill the gap which exists between the current position and the ultimate CSR reporting position. An outline of the approach required to prepare a company for CSR implementation and reporting is presented.