Project Outline: Environmental Reporting
ISSUE
One by one, companies or various industries are adopting the green trend. Creating products from recycled materials, using efficient energy sources, and conserving natural resources are all the beginning steps to developing as an environmentally-friendly company. How do these companies communicate their accomplishments to consumers, competitors, shareholders and other stakeholders?
After attending Heather Rogers' lecture on her book "Green Gone Wrong" and learning about industry practices as a part of the green movement, I find it pertinent to research the activities of companies in response to the environment through their published reports. UPS is an example of an industry leader in their environmental efforts, while Apple refuses to publish a formal environmental report.
METHOD
Following further investigation of this topic, I will choose particular companies to discuss within my paper -- those who lead their industries, some who have room for improvement, and others who are falling behind. My project will include the importance of formal environmental reporting, just as financial reporting is required of all public firms, and explain the communication methods used.
I know this topic could be a bit dry, however reporting is a critical form of communication by industries and individual companies. At this time, many business owners still need to be convinced of their negative impacts on the environment, let alone understand the importance of improvement and communication of these actions. Plus, there are many organizations who are exceeding standards and seek to maintain the welfare of the environment. These companies should be acknowledged for their efforts and intentions.
Posts
My opinion may be a bit biased but I certainly dont think this topic is dry. I thinks its something that applies to a very broad audience. Everyone can learn and hopefully be enriched by this sort of reporting.
All companies are interested in the public's opinion of them. Without public support, a lot of companies would cease to exist. Apple, I'd imagine, would lose a lot of business if public support when down. Apple invests great amounts into advertising and keeping their image as positive as possible. It is very important for public information to be accurate and transparent, I-pod adds definitely aren't. Explore these big well known companies.
Also, it seems that you plan to do this, but make sure to point out companies that have succeeded in truly going green. Show that its possible and that all companies should follow suit if they havent already.
I think especially after the celebrity talks in class, that the public image aspect of going green is fascinating. I was at the Heather Rogers lecture as well and immediately thought of the part where she discussed Ford's environmental efforts in their building facilities compared to how wasteful their products (such as the F150) still are. I think a look into Apple would be especially interesting, since they seem to be the most popular tech-business among college students.