In the 21st century, the idea of “Corporate Social Responsibility” (CSR) has become increasingly mainstream, with many companies integrating social and environmental considerations into their core business strategies. The rise of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria has only served to place further focus on CSR, emphasizing measurable, accountable practices, and corporate reporting on sustainability has become more standardized and sophisticated.
Modern consumers are also increasingly conscious of the social and environmental impacts of the products and services they purchase. They prefer doing business with companies that show ethical practices and are committed to positive social and environmental impacts, and CSR initiatives help businesses align with these consumer expectations, building loyalty and trust.
As the demand for ethical, sustainable, and transparent practices grows among not only consumers but also investors and regulatory bodies, it is necessary for the agriculture industry to adapt to meet these expectations. The farming sector’s direct impact on the environment, society, and economies makes it inherently connected to CSR and ESG considerations, and according to Tanner Winterhof, a business expert in the agricultural sector, integrating these considerations into agricultural practices is not just a moral imperative, but also a strategic business decision.