CSR and Sustainable Development Goals: destined to understand each other.

To address this topic, we must first be clear about the concept of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is defined as the voluntary and active contribution of companies to economic, social and environmental improvement.

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are the measures adopted by the United Nations in its 2030 Agenda. The document, which includes 17 goals reflected in 169 targets, addresses the three pillars of sustainable development: economic development, social development and environmental development.

The UN includes business in its SDGs as a key actor. They know that they play a key role in creating a more sustainable and inclusive world. Businesses also need an enabling environment – free from poverty, inequality or environmental stress – to operate and thrive.

That is why they need to create linkages. That is why CSR and the SDGs are destined to understand each other.

Applying CSR has demonstrated multiple benefits for companies, which are reflected in talent retention, increased productivity, customer and supplier loyalty, improved credibility and brand image, optimised energy efficiency, economic savings, etc.

For their part, the SDGs, which seek to eradicate poverty, protect the planet and ensure prosperity, require this strategic convergence for companies to maximise their positive impact and generate value for society and the environment.

Both CSR and the SDGs are aimed at improving society’s living conditions and quality of life, but we must bear in mind that the SDGs are not for business purposes. That is why CSR must take into account the particular operation of your company.

Aligning CSR with the SDGs requires a strategic approach and commitment from companies. Some points that companies can undertake include:

• Identify priority SDGs: Determine the SDGs where the company can have the greatest impact.
• Set specific goals and targets: Define measurable and achievable targets that contribute to the achievement of these priority SDGs.
• Integrate the SDGs into business strategy: incorporate the SDGs into strategic planning and decision-making.
• Collaboration: Establish strategic partnerships with governments, organisations and other businesses to maximise impact.
• Measure and communicate results: Use recognised indicators and metrics to assess progress and communicate results transparently.

Examples

Companies can take specific actions aligned with the SDGs. Examples could include:

• Engage in actions against hunger and poverty: donations of products, services to NGOs, partnerships to reach the most vulnerable groups, etc.
• Participating in measures aimed at gender equality: Equality Plans, achieving gender parity at all levels of the organisation, etc.
• Integration of sustainable resources: local products, reuse of resources, implementation of renewable energies, etc.

The future of CSR and the SDGs will be marked by greater integration, innovation, collaboration and stakeholder engagement. Companies that take a strategic and proactive approach will be better positioned to generate long-term value and contribute to a more sustainable future for society.