Many believe that allowing market forces is the most effective way to resolve problems and that government interference should be kept to a minimum. As a broad philosophy, we agree but there are currently a large number of urgent actions (people and planet issues) that need to happen but are not happening for example, reduction in CO2 emissions, minimum wage, use of plastics, water consumption etc. It seems that a loss in profit resulting from positive action, through pressure from investors, is still dominating decision-making . It does appear self-regulation, has not, is not and will not work going forward.
Government legislation in key areas (for example: CO2 emissions, plastics, waste disposal and fair wages) is essential as long as there has been adequate consultation between business and government with mutually agreed but ambitious timeframes. Such legislation, most critically, but often forgotten or ignored, also has the advantage of creating a level playing field.
It is said that many companies are publicly advocating about their support for positive change but behind the scenes, they are lobbying governments directly or via their trade association. This “greenwashing” is hypocritical, certainly irresponsible and does the companies concerned no credit. We ask those responsible people within these organisations to call out such behaviour when they find it.
We will support all movements and organisations which encourage governments to introduce greater legislation on people and environmental issues and we urge companies, as responsible businesses to do likewise. For example, the Better Business Act. https://betterbusinessact.org/
As we cannot rely on governments taking action on progressive legislation, we urge leaders and investors to accept their responsibilities towards these issues and quickly too! Time is not on our side. You do not wish to be considered an “irresponsible”.
People and planet issues are a responsibility and not a choice.
The Project’s vision is to make responsible business commonplace by 2030.
Read about what is involved with joining the Responsible Business Project 2030.
Join as an Ally and get access to our resources, or become a champion and join the movement.
Become a Partner and help us implement change, or become a supporter and actively help us with the project.
Read about what is involved with joining the Responsible Business Project 2030.
Join as an Ally and get access to our resources, or become a champion and join the movement.
Become a Partner and help us implement change, or become a supporter and actively help us with the project.