The Social Component of ESG : Responsible Business and SME Engagement
Haanpää, Elise (2024)
2024
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Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2024121837055
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2024121837055
Tiivistelmä
This thesis explores how Finnish small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can integrate social responsibility into their Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategies, with a focus on the social pillar. The research investigates key challenges SMEs face in addressing labour rights, stakeholder engagement, and ethical sourcing, particularly under increasing EU regulatory pressures.
Through expert interviews, the study examines current practices, barriers, and opportunities for Finnish SMEs to meet EU sustainability reporting requirements and enhance their social responsibility efforts.
The findings suggest that while SMEs are increasingly aware of the importance of ESG, many still approach it as a compliance obligation rather than a strategic advantage. The thesis concludes with recommendations for SMEs to shift towards a more proactive approach to social responsibility, thereby improving their competitiveness and ensuring compliance with EU regulations.
Through expert interviews, the study examines current practices, barriers, and opportunities for Finnish SMEs to meet EU sustainability reporting requirements and enhance their social responsibility efforts.
The findings suggest that while SMEs are increasingly aware of the importance of ESG, many still approach it as a compliance obligation rather than a strategic advantage. The thesis concludes with recommendations for SMEs to shift towards a more proactive approach to social responsibility, thereby improving their competitiveness and ensuring compliance with EU regulations.