The Good
There is growing interest from the media (and investors) in companies who are taking an active approach to CSR. This is highlighted by the increased reporting of quality CSR initiatives and corporate participation.
St Vincent De Paul Society’s annual CEO sleepout was widely reported on by news agencies. CEO participants from Fairfax, Dick Smith Electronics, Paddy Pallin, NRMA all received favourable coverage because of their participation.
NetApp Australia received some positive coverage about their positive workplace culture including its ‘egalitarian culture, open communication, salary, unique benefits and down-to-earth management style’
Google Australia’s office opened to much media praise as an environment that’s ‘the best place to work in the country – the office appears more like a day-care centre for adults than a workplace’
The Bad
There are many recent examples of companies who have been vilified in the media for a lack of openness and transparency. In some cases it may be that their CSR approach was fragmented- so the good work in one area was undermined by a lack of strategy and transparency in another or they have become out of touch with their stakeholders;
KFC has received negative reporting over its attitude to the impact of its products on community health. ‘.. KFC, will ditch palm oil for a healthier alternative, two years after the company stared down the Federal Government and refused to change its ways.’
Hazelwood Power station owner was targeted by an eco terrorism group reportedly because ‘Mr York ..was responsible for the dirtiest power station in Australia, and the most polluting in the industrialised world’
AUSTRALIA Zoo’s wildlife warrior Terri Irwin has reportedly ‘approved secret plans to build 31 dams and quadruple to 8000 the number of cattle grazing on a remote eco zone set up to honour her dead husband Steve.. Mrs Irwin also came under fire from traditional owners who were offended when a sign went up rebranding their homeland the Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve.’
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