Social and Environmental Responsibility and the Small Business Owner

This report provides an important snapshot of the views of small businesses on social and environmental responsibility. It shows that most small businesses are intrinsically responsible business owners. To quote one small business owner on corporate social responsibility (CSR) ‘it is simply a part of doing business in a successful and profitable manner in the 21st century and not some stand - alone concept that is bolted on later.’

Small businesses tell us they would benefit from Government incentives and practical examples from other businesses about enhancing and increasing their involvement in the social and environmental sphere. What they do not want is any type of mandatory reporting of CSR activities or specific CSR legislation.

The survey demonstrates that legislation would only serve to hinder the very good work already undertaken by small businesses. Time spent filling in forms to prove that businesses are acting in a socially responsible manner is time that could be better spent actually doing it.