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What is Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Sustainable Business?

A Definition of CSR

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Corporate Responsibility (CR) or Sustainable Business are commonly heard, but rarely understood, phrases. So what does it all mean?

Beyond the Buzz Words

CSR is the process of assessing an organisation's impact on society and evaluating their responsibilities. CSR begins with an assessment of a business and their:

  • Customers
  • Suppliers
  • Environment
  • Communities
  • Employees

The Power of CSR

Read our short guide on the benefits of CSR.

What does a CSR Policy Include?

Many organisations have a CSR Policy, which defines areas of concern and initiatives to improve relations with the people and environments affected by business operations. CSR policies often dictate a system for monitoring responsible performance. Read more about Simply CSR's approach to developing CSR policies.

More than Compliance

Successful CSR initiatives take organisations beyond compliance with legislation and leads them to honour ethical values and respect people, communities and the natural environment. CSR is sustainable - involving activities that your organisation can maintain without adversely affecting your business goals.

More than Being Green

CSR is about more than environmental responsibility or having a recycling policy. CSR is about considering the whole picture, from your internal processes to your clients, taking in every step that your business takes during day-to-day operations.

CSR is...

A long-term approach to business that addresses the needs of communities, people and their employers. CSR provides frameworks for successful enterprise that is harmonious with its surroundings. CSR is an opportunity to generate honest, authentic good-news stories that a business and its community can be proud of.

CSR must be sustainable - remaining a fundamental part of your business regardless of changing fortunes.