- Respond to the two disucssion posts below and provide more information than simply agreeing or disagreement. It is important to state the reasons why you agree or disagree.
- You may compare to my discussion post attached.
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I think that pretty much any business can make a profit while doing good at the same time. When you think about it, it’s the efforts the company puts in and how it makes an impact on the environment and people. For example, let’s put into perspective car companies. While car’s do emit many carbon gases and chemical’s into the atmosphere, travel is a need by all humans to survive because it’s what gets us to work and provides us with the money we need to eat. Tesla is a car company that’s main goal is to be environmentally sustainable by making electric cars and get rid of the planet’s biggest polluters (without the use of fuel and using renewable energy sources) (Impact Tesla 1). However, that doesn’t necessarily mean that a company like Ford is able to make a profit without being good. Ford actually has goals to be environmentally sustainable as well. Ford states, “Ford is the only full line U.S. automaker committed to reducing CO2 emissions in line with the Paris Climate Agreement”. Ford also mentions becoming carbon neutral, using 100 percent locally sourced renewable energy for their plants, and eliminating single use plastics in their operations (Sustainability – Further with Ford Ford Motor Company 1). So even though Ford isn’t a fully electric car company like Tesla, both companies still seek to further their good deeds in the world, all while being able to maintain/make a profit. It’s expected by consumers that companies fulfill their corporate social responsibility (fundraisers/donations, communities, ethical practices, being environmentally sustainable, helping society, etc.) so these efforts are well respected and highly praised.
Sources:
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As mentioned in our book’s first learning module, it is becoming increasingly important for businesses to transform their operating systems and convert their organizations to the CSV “Creating Shared Value” model, which allows them to be more competitive while also returning a portion of their profits to the communities in which they operate, resulting in a continuous cycle in which both parties benefit.
I believe that any type of business can make a profit while also benefiting communities. However, I believe that clothing companies are an important factor in today’s world, with the potential to contribute to communities while also attracting more people to pursue their interests. For example, the sports clothing brand Patagonia has “Protect our home planet” as one of its core values, which has allowed it to be recognized globally not only for the quality of its garments, but also for its sustainability system that uses recycled materials, reduces water consumption, and promotes fair work for its employees. They also encourage customers to repair their clothes rather than purchase new ones.
Finally, according to Forbes.com, “businesses are part of the communities where they reside,” with benefits including a good business reputation and marketing.
References:
“Our Core Values – Patagonia.” Patagonia Outdoor Clothing & Gear, www.patagonia.com/core-values/. Accessed 10 Jan. 2024.
Cantin, Dave. “Council Post: The Importance of Giving Back.” Forbes, Forbes Magazine, 8 Nov. 2022, www.forbes.com/sites/forbesbusinesscouncil/2022/05/31/the-importance-of-giving-back/?sh=5c16a1337139.