Engaging Employees in CSR Initiatives

Integrate sustainability into corporate culture 🌍 Creating a strong sustainability culture requires more than policies and commitments. It demands structural alignment, leadership engagement, and continuous reinforcement to ensure sustainability becomes an integral part of decision-making. A holistic approach transforms sustainability from an initiative into a core organizational value. A clear vision is the foundation. Leadership must define sustainability goals that align with business objectives and actively champion integration across all levels. Without leadership commitment, sustainability efforts risk becoming fragmented and ineffective. Assessing organizational culture helps identify gaps between stated commitments and actual behaviors. Employee engagement, awareness, and perceived barriers must be evaluated to understand the readiness for change and ensure sustainability is more than a surface-level priority. An actionable roadmap provides structure. Defining roles, responsibilities, and measurable KPIs embeds sustainability into day-to-day operations. A well-defined strategy ensures accountability and enables continuous progress tracking. Cross-functional collaboration strengthens implementation. Assigning ownership at executive and functional levels, breaking down silos, and improving data transparency drive better decision-making and long-term impact. Sustainability must be embedded into processes, not treated as an isolated function. Engagement thrives when incentives align with sustainability objectives. Recognizing employees who drive positive change, linking performance metrics to sustainability KPIs, and fostering a culture of innovation can accelerate transformation. Reinforcement is key to maintaining momentum. Sustainability is not a one-time initiative. Ongoing communication, regular check-ins, and adapting strategies to evolving challenges ensure continuous improvement. Long-term success depends on keeping sustainability at the core of operations, decision-making, and business strategy. #sustainability #sustainable #business #esg #climatechange #culture

Here's how Zeta demonstrates environmental responsibility in our day to day work life: A few months ago the Real Estate & Workplace (REW) team at Zeta were defining out Environmental & Social Governance goals - after a lot of jargon filled presentations, we asked ourselves - what can we implement immediately in our offices across India which can make a REAL and Positive impact on the environment. What followed was a series of initiatives which all of us are very proud of - here is what we did: 1. Plastic Garbage Bags to Compostable Garbage Bags: The garbage bags which were being used were made of plastic and we realized that we were putting a mountain of plastic back in the environment causing even more damage - we quickly researched and found compostable garbage bag manufacturers and made the switch - the amount of carbon footprint we saved by this simple switch has made a world of difference and given us a sense of relief that we are not adding to the environmental woes - all orgs can make this simple switch. (check out genuine compostable bags NOT biodegradable) 2. Water Conservation: At Zeta we simply changed the spouts of the taps with a sprinkler attachment which literally halves the water flow - saving tons of water wastage every month. Again a simple inexpensive way to support the environment - all organizations can easily implement. 3. Use of Recycled Copier Paper: Reams of paper get printed in all offices - at Zeta we simply started using recycled copier paper which may not look pristine white but gets the job done - saving millions of trees being cut for new printing paper manufacture. 4. Optimizing Electricity Usage: We have became very conscious of our electricity usage and have started simple activities of installing motion sensors for lights across offices which switch off if there is no motion sensed in the rooms or spaces - for older offices where we do not have these sensors we have mandated manual rounds by staff to switch off lights - also office areas with thin attendance (normally in evening hours) we switch of the Air Conditioning - all these small measures have started reflecting in the units of power consumed monthly and we are determined to keep going at it and make a real contribution to greener future together. Do share what you or your orgs are doing for a better greener, sustainable future. #GreenerTogether #LinkedInNewsIndia #LifeAtZeta #Sustainability #ESG

Despite the headwinds, employees are still pushing climate action from within — through campaigns, petitions, and organizing — and companies are responding. This great new piece from Trellis Group, co-written by Sam Gooch + Van Riker, highlights how Microsoft employees challenged the company’s ties to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, while Alphabet workers campaigned for a fossil-fuel-free retirement fund option. They share lessons they that any employee can use to avoid common pitfalls while accelerating collective progress: 🚫 Don’t assume your sustainability / ESG team is an automatic ally. Their priorities, external relationships, and risk considerations may make them cautious or resistant. It helps to clearly show how your advocacy aligns with business and sustainability goals. 🤝 Partner with credible external experts. Working with nonprofits or specialists (e.g. As You Sow, InfluenceMap) can provide data, legitimacy, and templates, saving time and strengthening your case. 👯 Build community deliberately and sustainably. Use engagement ladders (everyone from observers to leaders), multiple channels, and well-structured opportunities to encourage contribution from community members and volunteers. Expect ups and downs. Celebrate early wins to maintain momentum. 🗝️ Employee voices remain one of the most resilient drivers of corporate climate action — and if commitments waver at the top, it’s up to workers to double down from within. Employee Climate Action Network https://lnkd.in/gsYVVgDV

Everyone says people are the heart of their business. Starbucks makes it real. Their first Global Barista Championship (84,000 baristas, 1 global winner) put the spotlight where it belongs: on employees delivering customer excellence. The winner, Nobuki Shimode from Japan, was recognized not just for technical skill, but for bringing Starbucks' core values to life through craft, care, and connection.⁣ ⁣ Here are 3 lessons every business leader can apply:⁣ ⁣ ① Starbucks made emotional connection part of performance.⁣ Baristas weren't judged only on drink quality. They were scored on how well they connected with customers, told the story behind the coffee, and created memorable moments.⁣ ⁣✓The lesson: If you want customers to return and refer, design for emotional impact—not just efficiency. Experience isn't what people receive. It's what they feel.⁣ ⁣ ② Starbucks turned recognition into real influence.⁣ The winner didn't get a generic prize. He earned the chance to help create a drink that will appear in stores worldwide. The message: you're not just part of the brand—you directly impact what customers experience.⁣ ⁣✓The lesson: When employees contribute to what customers receive, they care more, perform better, and stay longer. That translates to higher retention on both sides of the counter.⁣ ⁣ ③ Starbucks tied individual wins to shared meaning.⁣ Every finalist received a $10,000 grant for their local community. Starbucks made it clear this wasn't just about rewarding talent—it was about amplifying the ripple effect of everyday work.⁣ ✓The lesson: Recognition drives deeper commitment when it reflects something bigger than the job. Purpose is a performance driver. Invest in what your people care about, and they'll invest more in you.⁣ ⁣ This is what Doing CX Right® looks like in action. I'm talking about turning values into action—and letting your people lead the way. Remember: to achieve better customer outcomes, start by recognizing the employees who create them. Then give them a real role in where your brand goes next. That's how you gain a competitive advantage. I know this works because I’ve experienced it firsthand. Subscribe to my newsletter for more helpful strategies and insights. Got questions? Message me. #DoingCXRight #customerexperience #employeeexperience Link to Starbucks story in comments.

In my most recent newsletter, I explore the practical side of ESG implementation—where strategy meets action and results. After prioritizing ESG topics through materiality assessments and creating a solid plan, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and implement impactful ESG programs and initiatives. 🔑 Key areas covered include: 1️⃣ Alignment with Organizational ESG Goals: Tailoring ESG initiatives, from reducing greenhouse gas emissions to enhancing social programs, to align with your core business values. 2️⃣ ROI and Financial Value: ESG initiatives should be seen as investments, not cost centers. Learn how to tie environmental and social projects to financial goals for sustainable growth. 3️⃣ Scaling Sustainability Initiatives: How to choose scalable projects that drive lasting impact across your operations. 4️⃣ Innovation & Stability: Balancing innovative ideas with tried and tested solutions through pilot projects that showcase commitment and refine strategies. 5️⃣ Quick Wins & Phased Projects: Combining immediate impact initiatives with long-term, phased projects to maintain momentum and drive continuous improvement. Want to know more? Read the full newsletter for a detailed guide on implementing ESG programs, financial returns, and scaling sustainable initiatives. https://lnkd.in/e5QbAUiu 💡 Looking to elevate your ESG efforts? Download my free ESG Guide for more insights: https://lnkd.in/dv28wK4J Ensure your ESG program delivers real value and lasting change. #ESGImplementation #Sustainability #CorporateLeadership #OperationalExcellence #ESGStrategy

Impact vs. Output: A CSR Story Told Through Bollywood & Real-World Examples. A simple thought!!! Colleagues from development sector keep discussing about the word impact, output, outcome etc. Half the time we tend to interpret and interchangeably use these words. In a way I often get tired of these words. In CSR, “impact” is often misunderstood. Many reports showcase big numbers but does that truly define impact? Let’s break it down using a Bollywood analogy and real-world examples. 🎬 Scene 1: Output vs. Outcome vs. Impact (A “Taare Zameen Par” Moment) TZP illustrates the difference between output and outcome. Ishaan, a child with dyslexia, is overwhelmed by relentless academic demands, resulting in academic failure. However, Nikumbh Sir's intervention shifts the focus to personalized outcomes 📝Output: Conducting a special training session for Ishaan 📝Outcome: Ishaan's reading skills improve dramatically 📝Impact: Ishaan develops a lasting self-belief and cultivates a genuine love for learning 👉 To demonstrate meaningful impact in CSR, we must move beyond simply reporting outputs, such as '10,000 children given books,' and instead measure sustained improvements in learning 🎬 Scene 2: Real CSR Example – The ‘Toilet Dilemma 🚾Output: A total of 100,000 toilets were constructed. 🚾Outcome: If daily usage reaches 70% or more, the project will have demonstrably succeeded. 🚾Impact: If, within five years, open defecation is no longer practiced, diseases are significantly reduced, and communities have integrated hygiene practices into their daily lives, then the project will have achieved its intended impact. 🎬 Scene 3: Any robust micro finance program 📄Output: ₹10,000 for a woman as a microloan. 📄Outcome: She starts a small micro business. 📄Impact: In 5 years, she has a stable income, her children finish school, and the family moves out of poverty. This may be a tall or hypothetical scenario. However , putting it here for a framework of reference 👉 Sustainable livelihoods create multi-generational impact. So, How Do We Measure Impact in CSR *? A robust monitoring and evaluation (M&E) system must include: 📖Baseline & Endline Surveys 📖Control Groups – Did the change happen because of CSR, or were other factors involved? 📖Qualitative Stories + Quantitative Data – A mix of human narratives + hard data is key. 📖Long-Term Tracking 📖Independent Assessments The CSR Mindset Shift: From Reports to Real Change At its best, CSR is not about “100,000 beneficiaries” but about lasting transformation and building positive community 👉🏼For NGOs: Shift from just reporting numbers to showcasing life-changing stories. 👉🏼For Corporates: Move beyond annual compliance and fund long-term interventions. When we align vision with measurement, we don’t just create CSR reports—we create real, measurable, and lasting impact. 💬What’s your take? Pic: Pradan and other partners Saroj Mahapatra

Impact Assessment Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has gained significant importance in India, and many companies are actively involved in CSR projects to contribute to social and environmental development. The Companies Act, 2013 in India mandates that certain qualifying companies must spend a percentage of their profits on CSR activities.   As per the CSR amendment in January 2021, companies with an average CSR expenditure equal to or more than Rs. 10 Cr in the last three financial years must undertake an impact assessment for their CSR projects.   #Here are a few basic rules:   #Which companies are required to undertake impact assessment?   Rule 8(3) of the Companies (CSR Policy) Rules, 2014 mandates the following class of companies to conduct impact assessment: (i) companies with minimum average CSR obligation of Rs. 10 crore or more in the immediately preceding 3 financial years; and (ii) companies that have CSR projects with outlays of a minimum of Rs. 1 crore and which have been completed not less than 1 year before undertaking impact assessment.   The impact assessment shall be carried out project-wise only in cases where both the above conditions are fulfilled. In other cases, it can be taken up by the company on a voluntary basis.   #Whether companies are required to undertake impact assessment for FY   The provisions for impact assessment have come into effect from 22nd January 2021. Accordingly, the company is required to undertake an impact assessment of the CSR projects completed on or after January 22, 2021. However, as a good practice, the Board may undertake an impact assessment of completed projects of previous financial years.   #Who can conduct an impact assessment?   Rule 8(3) of the Companies (CSR Policy) Rules, 2014 requires that the impact assessment be conducted by an independent agency. The Board has the prerogative to decide on the eligibility criteria for the selection of the independent agency for impact assessment. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has evolved into a critical component of business strategy, reflecting a commitment to societal well-being beyond profit generation. As companies increasingly engage in CSR initiatives, the need for rigorous impact assessment becomes paramount.   The impact assessment of CSR projects is crucial not only for regulatory compliance but also for the companies themselves to ensure that their initiatives are making a meaningful difference in the communities they serve. It helps in refining strategies, demonstrating accountability, and fostering a positive corporate image. #impactassessment #CSRIndia #Socialinvesting #accountability

"HR's Key Role in Shaping a Sustainable Future: Insights from the Africa Climate Summit" Introduction As the world grapples with the profound challenges of climate change, the Africa Climate Summit provides a platform for discussing innovative solutions and strategies. 1. Green Recruitment: Building a Climate-Conscious Workforce The first step in HR's #climate change journey is to source and attract talent that aligns with sustainability values. By incorporating environmental considerations into recruitment practices, organizations can build a workforce that inherently values eco-conscious practices. This includes: Eco-Centric Job Descriptions: Crafting job descriptions that emphasize the organization's commitment to sustainability can attract candidates who share these values. Green Interviews: Evaluating candidates for their environmental awareness and commitment during interviews. Sustainability Training: Providing onboarding programs that educate new hires about the organization's eco-friendly practices. 2. Sustainable Workplace Policies and Practices #HR plays a central role in creating and implementing policies that promote sustainability within the workplace. This involves: Sustainable Benefits: Promoting benefits such as flexible work arrangements, public transport subsidies, and eco-friendly office spaces to reduce the carbon footprint of the workforce. Performance Evaluation Metrics: Incorporating sustainability objectives into performance assessments to reward and recognize employees for their contributions to climate action. Inclusive Diversity: Encouraging diversity in sustainability perspectives to foster innovation in environmental practices. 3. Building a Culture of Sustainability A critical HR function is cultivating a workplace culture that values sustainability. This includes: #LeadershipEngagement: Engaging top executives in climate initiatives to set an example for the entire organization. Reporting and Transparency: Monitoring and reporting on sustainability metrics to create accountability. #Collaboration: Facilitating collaboration between HR and other departments to develop and implement holistic sustainability strategies. 4. Case Studies: HR's Impact on Climate Action Illustrating the real-world impact of HR-led climate initiatives is crucial. Several organizations have successfully integrated HR and climate action, yielding positive results in terms of reduced carbon footprints, improved employee satisfaction, and enhanced brand reputation. We can draw inspiration from these success stories. 5. Challenges and Future Directions While HR's potential for influencing climate action is immense, it is not without its challenges. Overcoming resistance to change, resource constraints, and regulatory hurdles is essential. Looking ahead, HR's role in climate action will evolve, with technology and data-driven decision-making taking center stage.

Recently, I had the opportunity to visit a WeWork India office – my first experience with any WeWork space. I was genuinely impressed by the thoughtful approach taken to create this green office space ♻️, where sustainability is seamlessly integrated. Witnessing sustainability practices in action brought unparalleled joy to this enthusiast's heart! 💌 - Opting for steel glasses and ceramic cups over disposable paper cups in the pantry area. 🥤 - Implementing waste segregation initiatives. 🚮 - Choosing upcycled brown tissue paper instead of virgin white ones, which involve cutting down trees. 🧻 - Embracing steel cutlery instead of disposable alternatives. 🍴 - Installing hand dryers in washrooms instead of encouraging the mindless use and disposal of tissues. 🚻 📌 Every office has the potential to adopt such eco-friendly measures inspired by WeWork. 🧑💻 As employees, we can also play a part: - Keep a mug in your office drawer for tea/coffee runs, avoiding the use of plastic or paper cups. Don't forget to carry a reusable water bottle. ☕️ - Minimize email usage, as the energy and resources required for storing and transmitting emails contribute to carbon footprints. Deleting unnecessary emails helps reduce environmental impact. 📧 - Utilize e-presentations whenever possible, especially during team meetings. 💻 📌 🏢 Employers, too, can make substantial contributions: - Install smart sensors to reduce carbon emissions by automatically regulating heating, cooling, and electricity based on necessity. 💡 - Donate leftover food from the canteen to NGOs and Food banks, addressing both sustainability and social responsibility. 🥗 Change begins with us! Let's turn Sustainability into a Reality! ♻️ #sustainability #greenoffice #greenspaces #corporateoffice #sustainablelifestyle