CSR Research: Environmental Sustainability

RESEARCH BRIEF - Firms with access to a larger variety of knowledge sources are in a better position to identify opportunities for environmental innovation.

RESEARCH BRIEF - Companies that wish to invigorate their product recycling programs should consider offering a reward to consumers in return for trade-ins, such as a discount on their next purchase or a donation to charity.

RESEARCH BRIEF - Using an environmentally friendly product enhances a consumer’s enjoyment and satisfaction when compared to using conventional products.

RESEARCH BRIEF - The degree to which consumers value the environment, social status, and value-for-money impact how likely they are to purchase environmentally friendly products.

RESEARCH BRIEF - Company size influences the impact of stakeholder pressure in the development of corporate environmental strategies.

RESEARCH BRIEF - Firms with more cross-sector partners tend to have better environmental performance.

RESEARCH BRIEF - Eco-conscious consumers may be more likely to purchase environmentally friendly products based on an appeal to their identification with and knowledge of sustainability rather than product attributes.

When faced with mandatory carbon reduction regulations, multinational-owned plants had better environmental performance than plants operating only within a domestic market.

Positive ESG scores do not necessarily correlate to superior ESG performance. Identifying companies that have a long-term view on environmental transition and risk management is key to alignment of performance with ESG ratings.

Operating contexts with higher levels of environmental regulation or customer expectations are the strongest drivers of environmental innovation. Organizational characteristics, such as the use of environmental management systems can also make a difference.

RESEARCH BRIEF - Companies committed to corporate citizenship and a low-carbon future should avoid “outsourcing” carbon emissions by acquiring foreign firms headquartered in low-regulation countries—as firms that do so are more likely to be penalized in the stock market.

RESEARCH BRIEF - Companies with an established reputation in corporate citizenship are more likely to achieve success with launching environmentally friendly or fair-trade products.