2Sustain

Article 13, strategic advisors on risk associated with business responsibility, has released three new case studies that showcase companies committed to implementing innovative CSR initiatives aligned with their business objectives.

In its latest round of case studies, Article 13 profiles:

1.  3M
Previously highlighted for its life cycle management approach –designed to improve the environmental performance of 3M products, manage potential risks, and identify opportunities at all stage in the product life cycle –3M is now in the spotlight for launching Futurewise, a web-based tool that helps teach young people sustainable decision-making skills.  The company realizes the direct business benefits of this program (i.e., a qualified and enthusiastic work force) could be as much as a decade away. However, 3M also considers Futurewise an ethical responsibility –and a source of pride for its employees and peers.

2.  The Medical Fair & Ethical Trade Group (MFETG)

MFETG is working to improve ethical and sustainable procurement practices in the UK’s NHS. For instance, the group has identified three key workforce issues for surgical instrument manufacture: child labor, workers’ rights, and health and safety (exposure to chemicals, machinery, etc.). Obviously, these surgical instrument supply chain issue are inter-connected, multi-national, and complex. MFETG provides an arena for these concerns to be discussed, while supporting –and lobbying for –their resolution.

3.  Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust (OBMH)

In September 2008, OBMH launched ‘Stamping Out Stigma,’ a communications and social marketing campaign targeted at eliminating discriminating behaviors towards mental health patients, improving their treatment in the workforce, and enhancing their access to opportunities.

As I mentioned in a post earlier this week, most companies in the Russell 1000 Index do not have responsive, value-generating environmental and sustainability programs. So, it’s encouraging to read about companies that are out in front, doing pioneering work for the environment and with regard to broader CSR goals.