The term corporate social responsibility (CSR), also known as sustainable business practice, is used to describe the work companies do that has a positive impact on society, the environment or the eco-nomy. In 2011, the EU Commission defined CSR as the ‘responsibility of enterprises for their impacts on society’. Efforts to reduce emissions of carbon dioxide, promotion of equal career opportunities, and involvement with local communities are examples of CSR initiatives.

Swedish companies have a long history of active CSR work and Sweden is viewed as a pioneer within the field. In 2013, Sweden topped the RobecoSAM Country Sustainability Ranking, which ranks 59 countries based on 17 environmental, social and governance indicators. The scope of the term CSR has expanded dramatically over the years and now covers aspects of business operations as diverse as corruption in supply chains and local environmental efforts. Yet even though Sweden has made great progress, there are many challenges remaining.

Some aspects:

• Gender equality
• Anti-corruption
• Human rights – a priority

Read more/source:
http://sweden.se/business/csr-in-sweden/#start

Photo:
Lena Granefelt/imagebank.sweden.se