Local Government Guide to Fostering Corporate Responsibility

Local governments work in many ways to improve the vibrancy, amenity and wellbeing of their communities. Expectations of local government are increasing globally, however, with greater community demand for improved environmental protection, local economic activity and social vitality. At the same time, there is rising public expectation of business to demonstrate greater environmental and social responsibility. What then is local government's role in supporting business to be more environmentally and socially responsible? Do they have a part to play? Or is promoting corporate responsibility just a role for national government? This guide suggests that local governments have a significant role to play in helping business to be more socially and environmentally responsible, and that a well-conceived corporate responsibility program for their jurisdictions can lead to better relationships with their business community, as well as improved efficiencies, environmental and social performance. The guide outlines: - A definition of corporate responsibility and government's role in promoting responsible business behaviour; - A range of mechanisms that can be used by local government to engage the private sector in greater corporate responsibility; - Examples of these mechanisms implemented in different parts of the world, to inspire and support practitioners; and - Guidance for developing a local corporate responsibility program. It is written for local government managers and officers, whether they are working in the area of economic development, community development, environment and/or sustainability.