How to embed the concept of sustainability is one of the key questions boards of directors and top management teams discuss in times of societal change and environmental challenges. These reflections are driven not only by self-reflection but also by capital market pressures and the consensus of public opinion. Unlike other issues on the corporate agenda, sustainability calls for a distinct approach to governance and raises questions about the foundation of corporate governance: the corporate purpose. This book presents various perspectives on corporate governance of sustainability and sustainable corporate governance, bringing together viewpoints from 16 practitioners and academics. It offers practical insights, introduces new perspectives, and invites readers to reflect on their own approaches to integrating sustainability into corporate governance.
Board ViewsFrom Corporate Governance of Sustainability to Sustainable Corporate Governance
What is the best way to integrate sustainability into the corporate governance framework? Boards of directors have chosen two distinct paths: the functional way, which focuses on corporate governance of sustainability, and the foundational approach, which leads to sustainable corporate governance. This article assesses the merits and limitations of both approaches and calls for a transition to sustainable governance. This requires board members to engage regularly with stakeholders and to continuously debate the underlying assumptions to further develop the governance framework as required.
Board ViewsThe Multipurpose Corporation as a Driver for Sustainable Value Creation
The nature of the debate on the role of business in society strongly suggests a cyclical nature, with constant attempts to balance different interests and perspectives. To overcome the illusion of solving this conundrum, this article proposes an alternative approach, multipurpose capitalism. It posits that companies should compete not only on their products and services, but also on their different purpose profiles. It is left to consumers, workers, and investors to decide where to shop, work, and invest. The article offers a framework and methodology to create a comprehensive ecosystem that enables this matching process and suggests ways to overcome the challenges along the way.
Board ViewsThe Board as Driver of Sustainable Change
Promoting a sense of responsibility is often seen as a benchmark for good corporate governance. The article argues for extending the discourse of responsibility to corporate citizenship and for understanding sustainability initiatives as innovation processes. The Board of Directors has a central role to play here, both in interpreting social change and in creating the conditions for successful implementation of social impact initiatives.
