Corporate Social Responsibility

In recent years, interest in corporate social responsibility (CSR) has risen considerably due to stakeholder xpectations: "conscientious consumers", institutional investors' interest in Socially Responsible Investment (SRI), the increasing demand for highly qualified employees, the political community's interest in sustainability culminating in various initiatives, discussion among the general public about corporate responsibility. CSR can contribute to the success of a company in many ways; e.g., improve its risk management techniques; reduce the reputation-damage risk; attract and retain qualified employees; generate a beneficial business environment. CSR could be a source of competitive advantage if it generates a unique character of the company or product brand.