Strange bedfellows you say? I say, nay. Many IT professionals are forward-thinking and socially responsible, yet they may never had any trek with their corporate social responsibility colleagues. Few CSR folks instinctively turn to IT as a natural corporate ally – but they should.
IT, the consumer of a great deal of energy; IT, the procurer of hoards of electronic equipment; IT, the creator of e-waste; IT can do a lot to contribute to an organization’s journey to sustainability. And CSR, yo, CSR – IT may be the source of your next gift-in-kind. Keep electronics out of landfills, off barges bound for China, out of the trash. Donate them through certified recyclers that can protect your data and brand and give you the tax benefits of your philanthropy.
For many organizations sustainability is one of the pillars of corporate social responsibility. It’s a great place to begin the discussion of how IT can help an organization’s triple bottom line.
I’ve started a linkedin group to invite your participation in what I hope to be an ongoing conversation. Join us at http://linkd.in/9NjakE .
Carol Baroudi's Blog 