### Social Responsibility
**By Alberto Sandoval, September 13, 2024**
The concept of “social responsibility” first emerged during the “Great Depression” of the 1920s, when charitable companies began to spring up. This laid the groundwork for what would later be known as corporate social responsibility (CSR). In 1944, the International Labour Organization (ILO) released the “Philadelphia Declaration,” setting the stage for the relationship between companies and workers, according to Camilo Andrés Bohórquez Toro in “An Overview of Corporate Social Responsibility and the Challenge of Its Implementation in Colombia” (2016).
The term Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) was coined a decade later by Howard R. Bowen, head of the Joint Committee of Congress on Internal Revenue and an economist on Wall Street. Today, we can differentiate between socially responsible individuals (SRI) and CSR.
According to the Hazloposible Foundation, being an SRI means “having a social commitment and responsibility so that our actions positively impact the community. It’s the ethical behavior of citizens towards themselves and their environment, also known as Individual Social Responsibility (ISR).”
One excellent way to embody this is by volunteering, both in personal life and within the organization one belongs to. This fosters community, strengthens tolerance, enhances empathy, and helps shape individuals into socially responsible beings.
Being socially responsible requires a commitment to ethical behavior that has a positive impact on the community. This applies both to individuals and organizations. A Corporately Socially Responsible (CSR) organization adopts ethical and sustainable practices throughout its production and supply chains. The goal is not only to maximize financial returns but also to minimize negative impacts on the environment, society, and the economy.
A CSR company focuses on employee welfare, customer satisfaction, supplier relations, environmental improvement, and community support. To achieve these goals, companies must comply with applicable laws and regulations, respect human and labor rights, promote diversity and inclusion, and reduce their carbon footprint to become climate-positive entities. They may also participate in social responsibility activities such as charitable donations, community volunteering, and employee support programs.
In addition to their positive environmental and community impacts, CSR companies are often considered excellent places to work. They enjoy improved reputations, higher customer loyalty, and better talent attraction, all contributing to a positive work environment.
In summary, every one of us—individually or corporately—should commit to our community and environment. It’s beneficial both for us and society. The key is to be socially responsible.
**Alberto Sandoval** is a professor, public servant, consultant, lecturer, athlete, and civic activist.
Contact:
– Email: [email protected]
– Internet: [About.Me/SandovalAlberto](http://about.me/sandovalalberto/)
– Facebook: Alberto Sandoval
– X (Twitter): @AlSandoval
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### Additional News on Social Responsibility
**Increased Focus on Corporate Social Responsibility in 2023**
In recent years, there has been a growing trend toward corporate social responsibility (CSR) across various industries. Companies are increasingly being held accountable not just for their financial performance but also for their contributions to society and the environment. This shift is driven by consumer demand for ethically produced goods, the need for sustainable business practices, and stricter governmental regulations.
For instance, many tech companies are now incorporating CSR into their business models. Google, for example, has launched several initiatives aimed at reducing its carbon footprint and promoting diversity and inclusion within its workforce. By 2025, they aim to operate entirely on carbon-free energy.
In the fashion industry, brands like Patagonia and The North Face are setting examples by focusing on sustainable materials and ethical labor practices. These companies have also committed to transparency in their supply chains, offering insight into their manufacturing processes to ensure consumers are well-informed about the origins of their products.
Corporate social responsibility has become a crucial aspect of modern business strategy. Companies that engage in ethical practices not only support their communities but also gain a competitive edge in the marketplace.
By adhering to CSR principles, businesses can build stronger brands, foster consumer loyalty, and attract top talent, all while making a positive impact on society and the environment. The future of CSR looks promising as more companies recognize the value of responsible conduct.
Exploring further into CSR practices, various industries are challenging themselves to go beyond mere compliance, incorporating innovative methods and practices to ensure their operations contribute positively to societal welfare.
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