https://research-methodology.net Necessary knowledge to conduct a business research Sun, 18 Feb 2024 05:50:53 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://rm-15da4.kxcdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/cropped-logoBRM-32x32.jpg https://research-methodology.net 32 32 https://research-methodology.net/byd-csr-a-brief-overview/ Sun, 18 Feb 2024 05:50:53 +0000 https://research-methodology.net/?p=77567 In today’s socially conscious world, consumers increasingly associate their purchases with values. BYD’s commitment to environmental sustainability, ethical labour practices, and community engagement resonates with eco-conscious buyers, fostering trust and brand loyalty. This translates to positive word-of-mouth, enhanced brand image, and ultimately, increased sales. BYD received a range of accolades for its CSR efforts such as such as the Zayed Sustainability Prize, the UN Powering the Future We Want Energy Grant, and featuring on Fortune magazine’s “Companies that Change the World” list.[1]   CSR Organization of BYD BYD Supporting Local Communities BYD Charity Foundation donated a total of RMB240 million to charities in 2022 alone The company contributed over RMB59.1 million worth of epidemic prevention and control fundings and supplies in 2022 and donated RMB5 million to Luding County, Sichuan Province for emergency relief and post-disaste   Waste Reduction and Recycling by BYD The electric automaker has gradually replaced the cartons, wooden packaging boxes and iron frames used in the transportation of battery pack products with the recyclable blister box with a service life cycle of more than 3 years and an annual recycling cycle of over 900 times, greatly reducing resource consumption   Carbon Emissions by BYD In 2022, BYD was the first manufacturer in the world suspended the production of fuel-engine vehicle and build the first zero-carbon headquarters of automobile brand in China[2] The EV giant has established a green traffic system by popularizing EVs to control pollution and launching the SkyShuttle to relieve traffic jam The company claims that until October 11, 2022, it has avoided the emission of  14,672,117,797 kg of carbon.[3]   BYD and Sustainable Sourcing  Suppliers are required to ensure that they do not use any form of forced labour, bonded labour (including debt mortgage) or indentured labour. They shall not use child labour…]]> https://research-methodology.net/nvidia-csr-overview/ Wed, 22 Nov 2023 01:38:03 +0000 https://research-methodology.net/?p=74469 Nvidia Supporting Local Communities NVIDIA employees joined the company in contributing more than USD22 million and 16,500 volunteer hours to charitable causes in fiscal year 2022.[1] The company and its employees supported 5,700 nonprofits in 50+ countries around the world. Nearly 40% of employees participated in the Foundation’s Inspire 365 efforts during FY22, bringing the unique participation rate since the initiative’s start to 68%. Nvidia and Gender Equality and Minorities As of January 30, 2022, the company’s global workforce was 80% male, 19% female, and 1% not declared and 6% of workforce in the United States was composed of Black or African American and Hispanic or Latino employees.[2] The company scored 100% on the Human Rights Campaign’s Corporate Equality Index for a seventh consecutive year   Energy Consumption by Nvidia By the end of the fiscal year ending January 31, 2025, the company plans to purchase or generate enough renewable energy to match 100% of its global electricity usage for its offices and data centres   Waste Reduction and Recycling by Nvidia The company diverted 56% of FY22 waste from landfill, a 12 percentage point decrease from the previous year. Bulk carton packaging uses corrugate material that is 100% recycled fibres, and the cartons maintain an overall recyclability rate of 100% Consumer packaging uses 70% recycled fibres and maintains a recyclability rate above 75%. Overall recyclability rate for all packaging is 93%     Nvidia other CSR Initiatives and Charitable Donations The company donated more than USD4.6 million to date for humanitarian relief to Ukraine and its refugees.[3]   Nvidia Corporation Report contains a full analysis of Nvidia corporate social responsibility including Nvidia CSR issues. The report illustrates the application of the major analytical strategic frameworks in business studies such as SWOT, PESTEL, Porter’s Five Forces, Value Chain analysis, Ansoff…]]> https://research-methodology.net/marriott-csr-a-brief-overview/ Sat, 28 Oct 2023 03:13:14 +0000 https://research-methodology.net/?p=76017 Marriott Supporting Local Communities In 2022 alone, employees contributed over 1.6 million volunteer hours across the globe, focusing on environmental and social issues to positively impact their communities. The company aims to locally source 50% of produce by year-end 2025   Marriott Educating and Empowering Workers In 2022, 78% of all associates* completed career- or skillsrelated training. The largest hotel chain in the world has been listed as Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For® Great Place to Work® in 2022     Marriott and Gender Equality and Minorities A majority of Marriott’s Board are minorities or women Listed as one of 50 Best Companies for Latinas to Work for in the U.S., LATINA Style 2022 The company aims to increase representation of people of colour in U.S. executive positions to 25% by year-end 2025. 47% of Marriott’s global executives (vice president level and above) are women 22% of Marriott’s U.S. executives (vice president level and above) are people of colour   Energy Consumption by Marriott In 2022, numerous Marriott-managed hotels across the globe implemented energy efficiency projects, saving approximately 45,000 MWhs of energy. 9% Global Reduction in Energy Consumption per Square Meter of Conditioned Space from 2016 Baseline 1% of electricity consumption sourced from renewable energy in 2022   Water Consumption by Marriott The company aims to reduce water consumption per occupied room by 15% from a 2016 baseline by year-end 2025 3% Global Reduction in Water Consumption per Occupied Room from 2016 Baseline   Waste Reduction and Recycling by Marriott The hotel chain aims to reduce waste-to-landfill by 45% and food waste by 50% from a 2016 baseline by year-end 2025 In Thailand, 27 Marriott hotels donated over 33,000 kg (72,000 lbs.) of food and surplus food to Scholars of Sustenance (SOS) throughout 2022.   Carbon Emissions by…]]> https://research-methodology.net/netflix-csr-overview/ Sat, 23 Sep 2023 00:15:24 +0000 https://research-methodology.net/?p=75539 Netflix CSR Programs and Initiatives Netflix Supporting Local Communities The entertainment services provider maintains employee giving program that provides a 2:1 match on employee donations. As part of the program the company and employees donated USD34 million to over 5,000 charities worldwide   Netflix and Gender Equality and Minorities 49,6% of Netflix employees are women 50% of US workforce are from historically excluded ethnic and/or racial backgrounds Netflix Fund for Creative Equity helps to create opportunities within the entertainment industry for minorities and historically under-represented groups Figure 1 Global Gender Identities at Netflix for 2022   Energy Consumption by Netflix In 2022 the company completed energy efficiency audits at its major facilities across North America The entertainment services provider uses 100% renewable electricity in all offices and productions it directly manages   Carbon Emissions by Netflix Netflix is committed to reduce carbon emission by 50% by 2030 compared to 2019 baseline The entertainment services provider uses clean technology on over 60% of productions it manages directly In 2022 about 50% of the productions Netflix managed incorporated clean mobile power solutions such as grid tie-ins, mobile batteries, battery-hybrid generators, and hydrogen power units, resulting in fuel reductions that lowered emissions by 1,179 MTCO2e The company uses at least one electric vehicle (EV) on screen on all of its directly-managed productions The streaming service supports creators who choose to incorporate sustainability into their storytelling Figure 2 Netflix carbon footpring by business activity in 2022   Netflix and Sustainable Sourcing  The company spent about USD 700 million with underrepresented suppliers in 2022   Governance Practices Netflix is beginning a phased declassification of its board in 2023. Starting from 2025 each board member will stand for annual elections The company is eliminating supermajority voting provisions in its articles of incorporation and bylaws The streaming…]]> https://research-methodology.net/apple-corporate-social-responsibility-csr/ Tue, 11 Jul 2023 00:15:00 +0000 http://research-methodology.net/?p=6483 Apple corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs and initiatives are led by Lisa Jackson, Vice President for Environment, Policy and Social Initiatives, reporting directly to CEO Tim Cook. More than 1 million people work in Apple supplier facilities and as such, the company’s operations have considerable implications on the society. It has to be noted that “Steve Jobs wasn’t known for philanthropy. Some wondered if he made anonymous donations to charity, some criticized him for his lack of public giving, while others defended him”[1]. However, with Tim Cook assuming Apple leadership in 2011, the focus on CSR aspect of the business has increased to a considerable extent. Tim Cook is a member of Paulson Institute’s CEO Council for Sustainable Urbanization, working with other CEOs of top Chinese and Western companies to advance sustainability in China.   Apple Supporting Local Communities In Oregon, USA, Apple partners with Bluestone Natural Farms to transform compostable materials generated onsite into rich organic material for use on the farm. The tech giant launched a 100-kilowatt rooftop solar project at an educational premise for disadvantaged children in Philippines. The company added 50-kilowatt solar power system and a 260-kilowatt-hour battery to supply clean electricity to off-grid fishing community in Thailand.   Apple Educating and Empowering Workers The multinational technology company provided training courses to about 4 million people since 2008. The tech giant has competitive employee benefits practices. For example, expectant mothers can take up to four weeks before a delivery and up to 14 weeks after a birth, while fathers and other non-birth parents are eligible for up to six weeks of parental leave. Apple suppliers paid back USD 32.2 million recruitment fees to their 36,599 employees since 2008. The iPhone maker taught employees organized 185,000 hours of inclusion and diversity training in 2021[2] The company organized 80,000 hours of management…]]> https://research-methodology.net/starbucks-csr-corporate-social-responsibility/ Sat, 08 Oct 2022 00:52:16 +0000 http://research-methodology.net/?p=7085 Starbucks CSR programs and initiatives are led by Michael Kobori, chief sustainability officer for the world’s largest coffeehouse chain. CSR initiatives for Starbucks cover wide range of business aspects and employee relationships such as supporting local communities, educating and empowering workers, gender equality and minorities, energy and water consumption, waste reduction etc.   CSR Programs and Initiatives Starbucks Supporting Local Communities Starbucks Community Store program aims to assist local non-profit organizations in their efforts to provide education and training to achieve poverty eradication for the young segment of population. The company plans to open 100 Community Stores by the end of 2025. Starbucks has cooperated with non-profit organizations, community leaders and organizational stakeholders to provide more than 520,000 hours of volunteering service around the globe.[1] The global coffeehouse chain runs FoodShare food donation program in all company operated stores in US and Canada. 10.4 million and 1.2 million meals were donated in US and Canada respectively in FY21.   Starbucks Educating and Empowering Workers Starbucks College Achievement Plan is an education program that allows employees to obtain online degrees from Arizona State University. Approximately 2500 employees earned their degrees via this program in FY21 alone It has been noted that “at the height of the global financial crisis, when other companies were cutting HR costs wherever they could, Starbucks invested in staff training, including coffee tastings and courses that ultimately qualified for credit at higher education institutions”[2] In FY21 the company oversaw more than 136000 course enrolments in Starbucks Coffee Academy and more than 55,000 course completions since launch.   Starbucks and Gender Equality and Minorities At present about 40% of Starbucks US employees are minorities and 65% are women. Among vice presidents, 48% are women and 15% are minorities. The global coffeehouse chain aims to achieve at least 30% BIPOC…]]> https://research-methodology.net/ikea-corporate-social-responsibility/ Wed, 17 Aug 2022 00:43:13 +0000 http://research-methodology.net/?p=7058 IKEA Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts are led by Chief Sustainability Officer, Lena Pripp-Kovac. Furthermore, retail managers at every country are also Corporate Sustainability Officers (CSO). The home improvement and furnishing chain started to research CSR reports under the title People & Planet Positive starting from 2012. IKEA CSR efforts and activities comprise supporting local communities, educating and empowering workers and addressing the issues of gender equality and minorities within the company. Moreover, the global furniture retailer works to reduce its energy consumption and derive energy from alternative sources. Sustainable sourcing represents an additional CSR issue that IKEA aims to address within the scope of its operations.   CSR Programs and Initiatives IKEA Supporting Local Communities  IKEA Group operates 422 stores in 50 markets around the world.[1] The home improvement and furnishing chain aims to cause positive impact on local communities, where its stores are located. Packing event organized by all IKEA stores in Sweden involved customers and representatives from Save the Children to prepare more than 37,000 welcome backpacks filled with toys and other products for children In UK, IKEA has planted one million trees in communities across the country In Australia, IKEA Perth and IKEA Adelaide employees contribute to the improvement of the environment in which children live and develop.   IKEA Educating and Empowering Workers Starting from January 2015, IKEA has introduced a new hourly wage structure that concentrates on the needs of its employees, rather than market standards. The furniture retailer has launched My Learning online system that provides employees at all levels access to face-t-face and digital learning solutions.   Employee Health and Safety at IKEA In 2021, the furniture retailer introduced a common solution for reporting incidents and accidents that’s easily accessible for all co-workers The number of accidents at IKEA was reduced by…]]> https://research-methodology.net/overview-of-mcdonalds-csr/ Thu, 23 Jun 2022 00:02:26 +0000 http://research-methodology.net/?p=7320 McDonald’s CSR is an interesting topic due to the size and scope of the operations of the company. The fast food giant had formulated its 2020 Aspirational Goals that explain the measures of sustainable sourcing of foods and packaging, providing balanced choices to customers, developing and operating environmentally efficient McDonald’s restaurants and supporting local communities to be initiated by the company. By the end of 2020 the fast food giant achieved or substantially achieved the majority of its aspirational goals. The company releases The Good Business Report annually and it includes the details of McDonalds CSR programs and initiatives engaged by the company. McDonald’s Supporting Local Communities McDonald’s claims to be improving the lives of children and their families via the support of Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) and other organizations. According to McDonald’s this support addresses the needs such as education and physical activity The company is also proud to support the network of over 260 local chapters of RMHC spanning over 60 countries and regions that creates, finds and supports programs that directly improve the health and well-being of children and their families. In 2020, the fast food chain announced a five-year, USD10390 million commitment to RMHC.     McDonald’s Educating and Empowering Workers McDonald’s Hamburger University, founded in 1961, comprises 8 campuses around the world and provides training for McDonald’s Franchisees, managers and employees In Europe, McDonald’s and participating Franchisees have pledged to offer 45,000 apprenticeships by 2025[1]   Labour and Human Rights at McDonald’s The company requires its suppliers to adhere to the Supplier Code of Conduct. The Code clarifies requirements of McDonald’s about issues related to Human Rights, Environmental Management, Workplace Environment and Business Integrity In 2018, the fast food chain introduced McDonald’s Human Rights Policy, which outlines its commitment to respect its people and their…]]> https://research-methodology.net/amazon-corporate-social-responsibility-2/ Sun, 27 Mar 2022 00:17:24 +0000 https://research-methodology.net/?p=7240 Since Amazon went public in 1997, the e-commerce giant has been repeatedly criticized for its lack of commitment on corporate social responsibility aspect of the business. Moreover, Amazon’s first sustainability executive Kara Hartnett Hurst was appointed only in August 2014 , a stark proof that CSR aspect of the business has not been paid due attention to for a long period of time.   CSR Programs and Initiatives Amazon Supporting Local Communities In 2020, the e-commerce giant created the Amazon Relief Fund, with a USD25 million initial contribution, focused on supporting its independent delivery service partners and other stakeholders to deal with the negative impact of coronavirus developments on the business. Amazon’s Device Donation Program facilitates the donation of electronic devices and gift cards to schools located near Amazon fulfilment centres throughout the US The company hosts ‘Girls Who Code’ events occasionally to help get more girls interested in coding The e-commerce giant supports local and national nonprofits with cash and product donations.   Amazon Educating and Empowering Workers Amazon Career Choice Program pre-pays 95% of tuition for employees to take courses for in-demand fields, such as airplane mechanic or nursing, regardless of whether the skills are relevant to a career at Amazon. Up to date the program has been attended by more than 10000 employees worldwide. Amazon Virtual Contact Centre, allows Amazon’s customer service employees to work from home. The program “Pay to Quit” offers USD 5000 to warehouse workers who quit to encourage employees to take a moment and think about what they really want.[1] Upskilling 2025 is USD 1,2 billion investment project to provide free skills training to U.S. employees.   Employee Health and Safety at Amazon Amazon employs 6200 safety professionals worldwide In 2020 due to the risk of COVID-19 coronavirus, the company recommended all of global…]]> https://research-methodology.net/square-csr-brief-overview/ Thu, 30 Sep 2021 05:17:44 +0000 https://research-methodology.net/?p=58091 Square CSR programs and initiatives mainly focus on four key priority areas – Climate Action, Social Impact, Employees and Culture, and Corporate Governance. These initiatives are led by Neil Jorgensen, Global Environmental, Social, and Governance Lead at Square.   Square Supporting Local Communities Square has invested USD 100 million in minority and underserved communities The financial unicorn assists some local communities in the US to preserve their local culture and deal with other most pressing issues. In many offices there are active volunteer communities, referred to volunteams that undertake various projects to support local communities   Square and Gender Equality and Minorities Square invests in employee resource groups such as Black Squares Association, LatinX Community, LGBTQ group, and others in order to create an inclusive environment The majority 54,1% of US employees of The fintech are white people, as illustrated in Figure 1 below: Figure 1 Race and ethnicity of Square Inc. employees in US[1]   Energy Consumption by Square Square launched Bitcoin Clean Energy Investment Initiative, USD 10 million investment to help accelerate renewable energy adoption in bitcoin mining. The payments company is planning to evaluate and explore clean energy options, working closely with its key provider partners.   Carbon Emissions by Square In 2020 the total carbon footprint for Square totalled to 247,900 tCO2e. The Figure 2 below illustrates the share of carbon emissions by operations: Figure 2 Square Inc. total carbon emissions in 2020[2] The financial services and digital payments company has aimed to be zero carbon for operations by 2030.   Other CSR Initiatives and Charitable Donations by Square Leads Program offered to managers at all levels is designed to develop leadership skills and competencies The finance sector disruptor fully pays parental leave globally, caregiving leave to US employees In UK Square partnered with The Entrepreneurial…]]> https://research-methodology.net/uber-csr-overview/ Thu, 22 Jul 2021 00:12:04 +0000 https://research-methodology.net/?p=15617 Uber corporate social responsibility is attracting a lot of interest among business researchers and practitioners recently. Not paying due attention to CSR aspect of the business has been traditionally one of the weaknesses associated with Uber under previous CEO and co-founder Travis Kalanick.  The ride-hailing giant has even lost its license to operate in London in 2017 due to the lack of corporate social responsibility[1]. However, under the new CEO Dara Khowrowshahi the company has fully recognized the importance of conducting sustainable business and this change is communicated to internal and external stakeholders systematically. The largest mobility platform in the world has pledged to become a fully zero-emission platform by 2040, with 100% of rides taking place in zero-emission vehicles, on public transit, or with micro-mobility Uber CSR Programs and Initiatives Uber and Gender Equality and Minorities The company received the maximum score of 100% on Human Rights Campaign 2020 Corporate Equality Index 59,7% of total workforce are man and 40,3% of all workforce are women. In tech jobs, the majority 76,9% of employees are men, whereas women fill only 23,1% of tech positions Black or African American represent only 7,5% of the total workforce   Water Consumption by Uber The global transportation technology company used 699,854 cubic meters of water globally in 2019 Mission Bay campus in San Francisco, USA is estimated to save round 2.5 million gallons of water through re-using the water   Carbon Emissions by Uber The company has set a goal that 100% rides in US, Canadian, and European cities will be in electric vehicles (EV) by 2030. Uber Green program is being expanded make it easier for riders to choose to travel in hybrids or EVs The ride-hailing giant is committing USD 800 million in resources to help hundreds of thousands of drivers transition to EVs…]]> https://research-methodology.net/tesla-csr-a-brief-overview/ Mon, 03 May 2021 00:32:34 +0000 https://research-methodology.net/?p=26629 Tesla CSR programs and initiatives are currently led by Vice President of People Valerie Chapman. Tesla did not pay due attention to social responsibility aspect of the business and did not engage in corporate sustainability reporting for a long time. Although the electric automaker was founded in 2003 and became publicly traded company in 2010, the company released its first CSR report titled Impact Report only in 2018. The alternative fuel vehicles manufacturer has Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) team that uses data-driven approach to champion diversity, equity and inclusion in business practices and communities.[1] Tesla produces electric vehicles, energy storage systems and solar panels. These products are perceived to promote environmental sustainability and this perception is effectively integrated into company’s marketing communication message. Tesla CSR Programs and Initiatives  Employee Health and Safety at Tesla Production employees are required to participate in a multi-day training program before ever setting foot on the factory floor. Tesla provides zero-cost health care and benefits to full-time employee positions. Employee engagement in health risk reduction measured by employee suggestions, good observations, Find it-Fix it program and continuous improvement ideas have increased from 3,000 engagements in 2017 to almost 23,000 in 2019.   Tesla and Gender Equality and Minorities Tesla was recognised as Best Employer for Diversity in 2019 by Forbes The electric car maker attempts to ensure a fair representation of traditionally underrepresented communities among its workforce. As it is illustrated in Figure 1 below, traditionally underrepresented groups amount to the majority 60% at Tesla. Figure 1 Underrepresented communities representation at Tesla US Traditionally underrepresented communities are also present in Director and Vice President positions at Tesla, as illustrated in Figure 2 below. Figure 2 Underrepresented communities in leadership positions at Tesla US Gender representation is an issue at Tesla. Only 21% of US…]]> https://research-methodology.net/w-w-grainger-corporate-social-responsibility-w-w-grainger-csr-a-brief-overview/ Fri, 21 Aug 2020 10:58:34 +0000 https://research-methodology.net/?p=44226 Grainger CSR (corporate social responsibility) programs and initiatives aim to address the issues of social awareness, environmental factors and ethical labour practices while promoting a greener, more culturally conscious attitude to both peers and customers. Grainger CSR Advisory Council has the mission of providing strategic awareness and encouraging transparency. Moreover, the global industrial supply company has CSR Working Group that leads programs to promote CSR goals. The company began using the Global Reporting Initiative’s Sustainability Reporting Standards in 2016 and, since 2017, has been a member of the Dow Jones Sustainability Index.[1] The B2B distributor offers more than 100,000 environmentally friendly products that help customers reduce energy consumption, conserve water, reduce waste and improve indoor air quality. [2] In 2018 the company was included in the top 10 placement in Barron’s “List of 100 Most Sustainable U.S. Companies” for the second time.       Grainger Supporting Local Communities Hundreds of Grainger employees volunteered 8500 hours in local communities throughout the US in 2018 Members of Grainger workforce also help communities devastated by natural disasters worldwide In 2018, the global industrial supply company donated more than USD120,000 worth of products to Team Rubicon, a veteran-led group that helps communities worldwide get back on their feet after disasters.   Grainger Educating and Empowering Workers All employees have completed Business Conduct Guidelines Training In 2017 the company provided 154 Grainger Tools for Tomorrow scholarships to employees in 85 participating colleges Grainger invested more than USD 4,5 million in employee education and development since 2006   Employee Health and Safety at Grainger Lost time incident rate per 100 employees decreased from 0,4 in 2017 to 0,3 in 2018 Total recordable incident rate per 100 employees totalled to 1,4 in 2017 and 2018   Grainger and Gender Equality and Minorities In total 38% of all workforce in…]]> https://research-methodology.net/airbnb-corporate-social-responsibility/ Tue, 24 Sep 2019 01:32:24 +0000 https://research-methodology.net/?p=39664 Airbnb corporate social responsibility is closely associated with business model of the travel industry disruptor.  It can be argued that travelling via Airbnb instead of hotels results in significant reduction in energy and water use, greenhouse gas emissions, and waste, and encourages more sustainable practices among both hosts and guests.   CSR Programs and Initiatives Airbnb Supporting Local Communities Airbnb employees receive four hours of paid time off every month to volunteer in their local communities.[1] Global Citizenship Champion program launched in 2013 involves organizing charitable contributions to causes important to their local communities in 20 cities around the world Champions within the scope of Global Citizenship Champion program completed more than 17000 hours of service in 2016. Airbnb runs Open Homes program that provides homes for free to those affected by conflict, disaster, or critical illness. The program has helped more than 25,000 people in need to find temporary housing and in 2019 the company is investing USD 20 million to grow the platform. Airbnb aims to house 100,000 people by 2022.[2]   Airbnb and Gender Equality and Minorities Diversity is one of the core values at Airbnb. 48.94% and 43.85% of employees are female, globally and in the US respectively. The figure 10 below illustrates race and ethnicity representation at Airbnb in the US. Ethnicity representation at Airbnb in the US Airbnb has “Diverse Candidate Slates” rule. For every open position, women and underrepresented minorities must be included on candidate slates before those slates are presented to hiring managers and the manager is allowed to proceed with filling the position.[3] The peer-to-peer lodging company has a wide range of Airfinity groups that create more awareness and advocacy around the issues employees value. Airfinity employee groups include Able@ for employees with disabilities, AirPride@ for LGBTQ people, Asians@, Black@, Foreignairs@, Juntos@,…]]> https://research-methodology.net/microsoft-corporate-social-responsibility-csr/ Sun, 10 Feb 2019 00:16:46 +0000 http://research-methodology.net/?p=6603 Microsoft corporate social responsibility (CSR) is guided by the citizenship mission of the company which is “to serve globally the needs of communities and fulfil our responsibilities to the public”. Moreover, charitable activities of Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation founded by Microsoft founder Bill Gates is also associated with Microsoft in the perception of the general public to a certain extent. The technology giant won a number of awards and achievements for its responsible behaviour. These include ranking #1 on Corporate Responsibility Magazine’s 100 Best Corporate Citizens 2018, ranking #1 for both, Environment and Social Score which measures corporate performance using more than 200 factors. Moreover, Microsoft’s behavior as a socially responsible company has earned number 2 spot on JUST Capital’s Top 10 Tech Companies. Microsoft CSR Programs and Initiatives Microsoft Supporting Local Communities Microsoft employees donated USD158 million to non-profits serving its local communities and the world The Lagos Solar project in Nigeria uses batteries that are charged by solar panels, along with intelligent inverters connected to Microsoft Azure Internet of Things technology International software provider Temenos relies on Microsoft Cloud services to reach people across Myanmar who lack access to banking, giving them opportunities for more financial stability and access to microcredit and other financial services. Microsoft’s 4Afrika Initiative provides a set of programs to empower African youth, entrepreneurs, developers and business and civic leaders YouthSpark initiative aims to empower 300 million young people around the world with opportunities for education, employment, and entrepreneurship Microsoft Educating and Empowering Workers Microsoft collects employee feedbacks through multiple channels and acts on them. As part of this initiative nearly 85 percent of our more than 117,000 employees responded employee survey 92% of surveyed stated they feel proud to work at Microsoft and 87% of employees would recommend Microsoft as a great…]]> https://research-methodology.net/xiaomi-csr-lack-of-information-and-csr-activities/ Mon, 04 Jun 2018 00:49:28 +0000 https://research-methodology.net/?p=22825 Xiaomi does not publish annual CSR report.  It has been noted that despite its branding effort to resemble the minimalist style of Apple, Xiaomi does not show similar commitment in environmental responsibility.[1] However, the mobile internet company may start publishing CSR reports after initial public offering (IPO) of its stocks that is expected to take place in the foreseeable future. Official Xiaomi website declares company’s pledge “to reduce the use of hazardous substances in products.”[2] However the website does not disclose any data at all regarding emissions or any other environmental impact of Xiaomi products and services. According to German Federal Office for Radiation Protection (Bundesamt für Strahlenschutz) Xiaomi smartphone Mi A1 has “Specific Absorption Rate” of 1,75 watts per kilogram, which is the highest level of radiation of smartphones worldwide.[3] In general, there is a lack of information related to Xiaomi CSR programs and initiatives, as it is illustrated in table below. CSR aspect of the business Xiaomi performance Supporting Local Communities No information available Educating and Empowering Workers No information available Labour and Human Rights No information available Employee Health and Safety No information available Gender Equality and Minorities It has been noted that Xiaomi uses “yanzhi,” or physical appearance metric when hiring, leading to discriminaton during employee recruitment and selection process.[4] Energy Consumption No information available Water Consumption No information available Waste Reduction and Recycling MI INDIA maintains PRODUCT TAKE-BACK & RECYCLING PROGRAM. Xiaomi Authorised e-waste recycler can collect e-waste from customer’s location, or customers can also drop e-waste at any of company’s service centers[5] Carbon Emissions No information available Sustainable Sourcing No information available other CSR Initiatives and Charitable Donations No information available Xiaomi CSR Programs and Initiatives Xiaomi Inc. Report contains a full analysis of Xiaomi corporate social responsibility including Xiaomi CSR issues. The report…]]> https://research-methodology.net/samsung-corporate-social-responsibility/ Thu, 12 Oct 2017 00:35:11 +0000 http://research-methodology.net/?p=6926 Samsung Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs and initiatives are facilitated through the Sustainability Management Council, which consists of 14 related departments that handle issues from 10 different areas, including society and the environment.[1] Samsung Global Code of Conduct is based on the following principles: Compliance with laws and ethical standards Maintenance of clean organizational structure Respecting customers, shareholders and employees Caring for the environment, health and safety Being socially responsible corporate citizen CSR aspect of the business is managed by Samsung CSR Committee. The company releases Supplier Responsibility Progress Report annually and it includes the details of CSR programs and initiatives engaged by the company. Samsung Electronics addresses CSR aspects of the business in four directions: social contributions, green management, health and safety and sharing growth.   Samsung Supporting Local Communities Samsung Tech Institute encourages independence and self-reliance among young adults via systematic vocational education. The initiative had 39,659 beneficiaries by the end of 2015.   Samsung SMART School addresses an important gap in the global education by improving educational environment for students residing in disadvantaged areas. In 2015 alone 224,753 students attended Samsung SMART School. Samsung Solve for Tomorrow is a program that aims to tackle important social issues. The program engages students and non-profit organizations to identify the most pressing social problems and to find and to implement solutions to these problems Samsung Care Drive facilitates a range of healthcare programs in order to deal with the help of technology. As of 2014, the company had 30 active programs primarily in China, Russia, and several countries in Africa. Samsung Nanum Village aims to target the roots of poverty via providing an effective infrastructure to socially disadvantaged segments of the population. Within the scope of this program, partnerships are formed with national and local governments to provide an extensive…]]> https://research-methodology.net/google-corporate-social-responsibility-csr/ Thu, 08 Jun 2017 08:56:40 +0000 http://research-methodology.net/?p=6684 Starting from 2015, Google issues environmental report that contains the details of Google CSR programs and initiatives. The following are the most noteworthy parts of Google performance in important fronts of CSR taken from Google Environmental Report 2016 and other sources.   Energy Consumption by Google Google data centres consume 50% less energy compared to a typical data centre Google purchases or produces 24% of renewable energy and the company has 11% renewable electricity already on the grid, thus total use of renewable energy accounts to 35%. The use of remaining 65% energy which is non-renewable is neutralized by carbon offset projects. In Mountain View campus 1.9 MW solar panels generate more than 3 million kWh clean energy Google has made an agreement to invest more than USD1.5 billion in renewable energy projects such as large-scale wind and rooftop solar panels. More than 4 million square feet of Google buildings have achieved green certification status by LEED. Alphabet Inc. Google’s parent company has committed to invest USD2.5 billion in solar and wind projects[1] The average annual power usage effectiveness (PUE) for Google’s global fleet of data centres was 1.12 in 2015, compared with the industry average of 1.7 To date, 854,000 square meters (9.2 million square feet) of Google office facilities have achieved Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification. Overhead energy use as percentage of IT energy in Google data centres   Water Consumption by Google Google data centre in Berkeley County, South Carolina alone uses about 4 million gallons of surface water per day[2] From 2013 to 2015, the internet giant reduced potable litres of water used per employee  by 30% at its Bay Area headquarters In total, six of Google’s operating data centres have achieved 100% landfill diversion, and one of these has reached Zero Waste…]]> https://research-methodology.net/facebook-csr-overview/ Sun, 15 Jan 2017 00:57:42 +0000 http://research-methodology.net/?p=9296 Surprisingly, despite the size and scope of its business activities, Facebook Inc. does not release an annual Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) report detailing its programs and initiatives. The company has a dedicated Facebook page ‘Green on Facebook’ that regularly announces its charitable programs and CSR activities. Additionally, Facebook has a website at www.sustainability.fb.com dedicated for the same purpose. The table below illustrates the highlights from the latest report for 2015: Categories of CSR activities Facebook Performance Supporting local  communities The company hosts farmers market at its Menlo Park headquarters each week providing fresh produce to the Belle Haven and East Palo Alto communities.Facebook has collaborated with Menlo Park Rotary Club to build The Belle Haven Community Garden, where families in the community now have access to 25 planting beds that are free to use.The company has sponsored solar installations on homes in Belle Haven through its partnership with Menlo Spark and Grid Alternatives. Educating and empowering workers Facebook has an employee satisfaction rating of 93 per cent due to competitive pay, informal and empowering organizational culture Labour and human rights It has been noted that “Facebook employees are often placed in roles that cater to their strengths and are encouraged to question and criticize their managers”[1] Employee health and safety Facebook strives to have maximum amount of natural light in its offices and serves local organic food in its kitchens Gender equality and minorities White males constitute 39.1 per cent of employees and black males and females represent only 1.7 per cent of employees. Also, Hispanic males and females represent only 4.3 per cent of the total workforce[2] Environment a) energy consumption b) water consumption c) Waster reduction and recycling   d) CO2 emissions   The company has announced that its latest data centre in Los Lunas, New Mexico will…]]> https://research-methodology.net/gap-inc-csr-benefiting-from-sustainability-efforts/ Wed, 02 Nov 2016 00:10:16 +0000 http://research-methodology.net/?p=8715 Gap Inc. management rightly acknowledges Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) as one of the critically important aspects of the business. The company has won a number of awards for its CSR programs and initiatives, including 2016 Catalyst Award in recognition of its commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion[1]. Moreover, in 2015 Gap Inc. was named as The Most Ethical Company by The Ethisphere Institute.[2] Gap Inc. releases Global Sustainability Report annually and it includes the details of CSR programs and initiatives engaged by the company. The table below illustrates the highlights from the latest report for 2013-2014: Categories of CSR activities Gap Inc. CSR Performance Supporting local  communities Gap’s employees volunteered 558,000 hours in 2014 alone Educating and empowering workers The company provided job training and store internships through its This Way Ahead program to more than 2000 teens and young adults. Labor and human rights Over the past several years the company raised the hourly wage to USD 10 for more than 60,000 employees Employee health and safety The company has a centralized online reporting system that tracks all incidents and injuries. The information is analyzed at least quarterly to assess risks and develop prevention measures Gender equality and minorities P.A.C.E. program aims to support female employees and suppliers gain the skills and confidence to advance at work and at home. The program aims to educate one million women throughout the world by 2020.   Gap Inc. pays female and male employees equally for equal work   In 2015, women represented more than 70 per cent of Gap’s senior leadership.   The company sponsored 6 employee resource groups to promote diversity and inclusion. Environment   a) energy consumption   b) water consumption     c) Waste reduction and recycling   d) CO2 emissions       The fashion retailer has…]]>