Giving Compass' Take:

• Ryan Ayers discusses the benefits to companies moral and bottom line by having strong and focused sustainability programs.

• What can businesses learn from philanthropies in order to design these programs?

• Read five things philanthropy can teach business leaders.

Business leaders can boost brand image and serve the public good by practicing corporate social responsibility. In recent years, public advocates have demanded more than lip service when it comes to protecting the interests of humanity. Resultantly, a growing number of executives recognize the importance of corporate sustainability. By deploying sustainable practices across your enterprise, you can produce tangible benefits for your company, your employees and the community.

An Ernst & Young study reveals that nearly 50% of corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs produce a positive return-on-investment. EY’s research showed that companies enjoy the highest average financial returns from CSR initiatives designed to benefit employees (133%). The research also showed that companies generated the lowest average financial return with environmental initiatives (33%), but the returns still made the efforts worthwhile.

Nearly 60% of consumers consider environmental impact when deciding to purchase a good or service, according to the Natural Marketing Institute. Furthermore, they’re more likely to buy from socially responsible companies.

Sustainable business practices promote streamlined operations, which reduces costs and improves employee satisfaction. CSR practices can also help you to save on expenses such as utilities.

Today, CSR is a business best practice. It helps to stay focused on a finite purpose. A focused agenda also makes it easier to win the buy-in of executives, who, in turn, will inspire employees to support your company’s CSR cause.

Read the full article about why forward-thinking companies need a sustainability program by Ryan Ayers at Business 2 Community.