Prepare a critical insight into the development and progression of environmental issues and concerns within the context of business and management Introduction

Assignment 1 – Critical Insights

Learning Outcomes Tested in this Assignment :

1. Prepare a critical insight into the development and progression of environmental issues and concerns within the context of business and management

Introduction

The growing belief that business and society should incorporate a responsible element to their activities is receiving increased attention in many spheres to embed and enhance a sustainable perspective to align with: “Sustainable development is development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” (Our Common Future: Brundtland Report)

Assignment Brief (Total 100 marks – overall 30% of modular assessments)

Prepare an evidence-based, longitudinal report which traces the development of corporate social responsibility and provides a critical evaluation of key events and issues which have contributed to the growth and adoption of the concept by businesses throughout the world. (1000 words)

Supporting data should be used to illustrate the response and the contents should be given credibility by the use of academic references. The use of a table is suggested to summarize points and assist with adhering to the word count, together with selection and judgement to avoid attempting coverage which is too broad and therefore lacks the depth expected at post-graduate level.

Guidance Notes

At post-graduate level there is an expectation that independent research is undertaken and this assignment provides you with an opportunity to select examples which have occurred to highlight and emphasise social responsibility. As this topic has accelerated over the last decade, it is suggested that the most recent examples have the greatest contemporary relevance for your studies. Using a table is suggested and this type of format could be used, but not the example as this is too dated, it is merely used as an illustration. You may prefer different headings and it is useful to include political developments and government initiatives

The submission should include an introduction, before the table. Following the table it is useful to adopt the stance of a theoretical-practitioner and select key points to link with the theories you have studies during the module. The final sections should be a summary and list of references in alphabetical order by author’s surname using Harvard referencing.

Sample Answer

Critical Insights into the Development of Environmental Issues in Business and Management

Introduction

In the past few decades, environmental issues have become a growing concern for businesses, governments, and society. Companies are no longer judged only on profit but also on how they affect the environment and society. This change is connected to the concept of sustainable development, which means meeting present needs without harming the ability of future generations to meet theirs (Brundtland Report, 1987).

As a result, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has become a major focus in business. CSR refers to a company’s efforts to improve society and reduce its negative impact on the environment. This report looks at key events that have shaped CSR and environmental responsibility over time. It will include a table summarising important global events, followed by a discussion linking these events to academic theories.

Timeline of CSR Development and Environmental Issues in Business