A framework for assessing discretionary corporate performance towards the environment |
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Authors: | Sonia Labatt |
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Institution: | (1) Department of Geography, University of Toronto, M5S 1A1 Toronto, Canada |
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Abstract: | This article reviews the existing models of corporate social responsiveness and develops a theoretical framework with which
to examine corporations' discretionary performance with respect to one social issue, that of the environment. Discretionary
indicators of corporate response to environmental issues are developed and tested within this framework. Twelve companies
from five different sectors were selected for the survey, based on prior knowledge of their commitment to environmental concerns.
Primary data was collected from personal interviews, and secondary data was obtained from company documents, annual reports,
and other forms of publically disclosed information. Empirical results varied, but certain voluntary indicators, such as composition
of the board of directors, the environmental affairs function, community support, and the annual report are considered to
provide strong indications of discretionary corporate performance. Philanthropy and company products proved to be less satisfactory
indicators of corporate commitment to the environment. The aggregated results revealed a correlation between the final rankings
of firms' discretionary environmental performance and whether those companies are process or product oriented. Linkages between
discretionary elements and those of economic and legal requirements were not explored. |
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Keywords: | Environment Discretionary indicators Corporate social responsiveness |
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