The Social Responsibility of Corporations – Give the environment a break

Sammanfattning: This study examines Nestlé and their CSR engagement from an environmental aspect, focusing on deforestation and their use of palm oil. Being the world’s largest producer of food and beverages they are a target for public scrutiny when engaging in CSR initiatives. Using Archie B. Carroll’s pyramid of CSR and Lyon & Maxwell’s theory of corporate environmentalism will localise the predominant factors that drive Nestlé to engage in CSR. As for analytical units, Nestlé’s annual and CSV reports have been chosen. This study also examines the effect from environmental NGO Greenpeace had with their campaign against Nestlé. CSR is a complex concept and with different component parts and definitions, Thus, when analysing and searching for main drivers behind CSR engagements, one must consider what aspect of corporate social responsibility is being examined. Analysing the environmental aspects, one shall also be aware of searching for indications of greenwashing.