All AFNOR solutions based on CSR standards for the agri-food industry.
- The ISO 26030 standard
- The Qualimétha label
- The Anti-Food Waste Label
- Sector-specific CSR labels
CSR , from non-financial reporting to responsible practices
A company is not only expected to pursue profit. It is also expected to adhere to a number of universal values, unrelated to profit, and to take action to serve the common good. We explain how to do this.
CSR: From Non-Financial Reporting to Responsible Practices
A company is not only expected to pursue profit. It is also expected to adhere to a number of universal values, unrelated to profit, and to take action to serve the common good. We explain how to do this.
Definition: What is CSR?
The corporate social responsibility refers to the voluntary integration by organizations of social and environmental concerns into their business activities. This approach, as defined by the European Commission, is transforming the way businesses traditionally operate.
In practical terms, CSR is based on three fundamental pillars: economic, social, and environmental. Committed organizations adopt responsible practices that go beyond mere compliance with the legal framework. They measure their positive impact on society while maintaining their financial performance.
The international standard ISO 26000 structures this approach around seven key areas: governance, human rights, labor practices, the environment, fair operating practices, consumer issues, and community involvement. This standard guides private-sector organizations through their environmental and social transition, promoting close collaboration with their stakeholders.
The benefits of a CSR and sustainability approach
Corporate social responsibility (CSR) or organizational social responsibility (OSR) refers to the behavior that companies and organizations choose—or are compelled—to adopt in order to maximize their non-financial performance in the areas of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues. The principle is that those who fail to act virtuously risk tarnishing their reputation and, consequently, their financial performance. This behavior must be formalized through the definition of a strategy, accompanied by action plans, monitoring indicators, and reporting tools. It also requires the appointment of one or more leaders.
6of the 9 planetary boundaries crossed
17UN Sustainable Development Goals
12ESRS standards for sustainability reporting
7key issues in ISO 26000
AFNOR helps you define and refine your needs
Implement a CSR approach in 5 steps
CSR and the Environment: Reducing Your Footprint for a Sustainable Strategy
Environmental commitment is one of the cornerstones of any modern CSR strategy. Organizations must now measure and reduce their carbon footprint while adopting practices that respect ecosystems. This transformation requires a complete overhaul of industrial processes and supply chains.
The ecological transition relies on ESG criteria specific metrics that enable the assessment of environmental performance. Reducing energy consumption, optimizing waste management, and preserving biodiversity are all concrete actions that align with the principles of sustainable development. Companies can also rely on environmental performance indicators to guide their transformation.
In the face of climate change, the adoption of clean technologies and eco-design are becoming essential strategic tools for anticipating future regulations and meeting the growing expectations of stakeholders.
What are the principles of CSR?
The Seven fundamental principles of CSR are rooted in ISO 26000, an international standard that has guided organizations since 2010. This standard establishes a framework based on key concepts: accountability, transparency, ethical conduct, and respect for the interests of stakeholders.
Each principle is based on specific requirements. Accountability requires companies to take responsibility for their social and environmental impacts. Transparency is demonstrated, in particular, through the publication of non-financial reports that are accessible to all stakeholders.
Adherence to the principle of legality goes beyond mere compliance with national laws. Organizations must incorporate international standards of conduct, particularly those established by the UN and the ILO. This comprehensive approach helps to harmonize responsible practices on a global scale, regardless of local regulatory contexts.
What is the difference between CSR and ESG?
Although often confused, CSR and ESG represent two distinct yet complementary approaches. The CSR is a voluntary initiative driven by the company itself to integrate societal issues into its overall strategy.
ESG works differently: it is an external assessment system used primarily by investors and financial analysts. These criteria make it possible to measure and rate organizations’ non-financial performance according to quantifiable and comparable standards.
The fundamental difference lies in their purpose. While CSR stems from an internal drive for change, ESG addresses the needs of stakeholder assessment external stakeholders. Companies develop their CSR policies, which are then analyzed through the lens of ESG criteria to inform responsible investment decisions.
Tailored solutions
to each sector
CSR and sustainability standards
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Obtaining CSR certification
Would you like to have your best practices recognized, both as a company and as an individual (DPO), and demonstrate your compliance with commonly accepted quality and digital security criteria? AFNOR Certification is your point of contact.
Our strengths
- A trusted and recognized third party
- Comprehensive expertise in standards and benchmarks
- A large pool of auditors
Have your sustainability report verified
Are you subject to the CSRD directive or do you track your non-financial performance using the VSME model? Have your sustainability report verified by an independent third party duly registered with the High Authority for Audit.
Our CSR and sustainability training programs
With AFNOR Compétences, learn about corporate social responsibility (CSR) processes and best practices, as well as the sustainability audit required by the CSRD directive.
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