Shipping needs to expand its CSR focus from company level to all sectors

SAFETY4SEA is pleased to announce the release of the new issue of its CSR4SEA Log including the update of the groundbreaking Shipping CSR500 Survey which assesses the level of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) of maritime industry. This year, the survey reveals that shipping needs a long-term vision in terms of CSR as well as further research to overcome barriers for a widespread adoption of CSR in the industry. The publication also features opinions from industry experts who share their insights into key CSR challenges, suggest ways and introduce best practices for effective implementation. 

Corporate Social Responsibility stands for all voluntary actions taken by companies towards society and the environment which have realized their responsibility for their impacts. All industries have implemented its practices; however, shipping industry appears to fall behind. SAFETY4SEA ‘’Shipping CSR500 Survey’’ sets out an index which illustrates the real progress that CSR has made so far in the industry.

Companies may integrate CSR effectively into their operations by developing sustainable business and building trust. Transparency is of outmost importance; thus, they need to communicate with their stakeholders; this is why CSR reporting matters. One of the key findings of ’Shipping CSR500 Survey’ is that industry is lagging behind CSR reporting and therefore, it needs to raise awareness. Other measures to engage in CSR could be to develop a clear strategy, encourage teamwork and focus on the long term.

However, companies should pay attention not to fall into the trap. CSR is not only for the environment, they should try to keep an optimum balance in its three dimensions. They should not think that CSR is only about giving money or it is a useless activity. Just because companies cannot see the benefits of CSR promptly it doesn’t mean it is a waste of time effort.

Two Infographics are also included in the publication: firstly, the Shipping CSR500 which depicts key findings of the survey and secondly an infographic on ISO 9001:2015 which provides guidance to ship operators on how to make the transition to the updated standard effectively until September 2018.

Additionally, CSR4SEA Log includes data, industry and sector focus, materiality matrix analysis, Shipping Industry Perspectives and CSR best practices.

Apostolos Belokas, Managing Editor, SAFETY4SEA commented:

‘’Industry has realized the importance of implementing CSR practices across its operations, however, effort is still needed with respect to CSR reporting. Our aim with this publication is to identify barriers and to highlight great initiatives that have been already implemented. We are also delighted to include valuable feedback from industry experts who have shared their thoughts for best practices.’’

In this issue:

• Warwick Norman, who has been CEO of RightShip since its inception in 2001, shares his insights into CSR in the shipping industry where he explains how Rightship is helping stakeholders to meet their CSR obligations;
• Sotiris Raptis, Senior Policy Advisor for Environment & Safety, EcoPorts Coordinator, cites how Eco-Ports network, initiated in 1997 in the year the Kyoto Protocol was signed, has become a successful initiative for ports to raise awareness, exchange information and promote better environmental management. ;
• Bjørn Kj. Haugland, Executive Vice President and the Chief Sustainability Officer in DNV GL Group, explains how disruptive technologies drive sustainability in the shipping industry;
• Alexis Rodriguez, Panama Canal’s Environmental Protection Specialist, talks about Canal’s Green Route strategy which consists of many initiatives encouraging operators to enhance environmental performance in the industry;
• Staffan Söderberg, Owner and Senior Advisor, AMAP Sustainability, provided us feedback and recommendations for effective CSR implementation in the shipping industry;
• Maurice Meehan, Manager, BSR, highlighted the importance of anti-corruption, which is key element of CSR and explained how MACN initiative assists in strengthening a company’s performance and;
• Rickard Lindström, Maritime Sustainability & Account Management, Clean Shipping Index, argues that although many companies still have not adopted a clear CSR strategy, it is crucial to change mindset in order to adapt to emerging changes and suggests effective ways towards that end.