Designing CSR Campaigns

After spending three decades in the aerospace industry, I’ve seen firsthand how crucial it is for different sectors to learn from each other. We no longer can afford to stay stuck in our own bubbles. Take the aerospace industry, for example. They’ve been looking at how car manufacturers automate their factories to improve their own processes. And those racing teams? Their ability to prototype quickly and develop at a breakneck pace is something we can all learn from to speed up our product development. It’s all about breaking down those silos and embracing new ideas from wherever we can find them. When I was leading the Scorpion Jet program, our rapid development – less than two years to develop a new aircraft – caught the attention of a company known for razors and electric shavers. They reached out to us, intrigued by our ability to iterate so quickly, telling me "you developed a new jet faster than we can develop new razors..." They wanted to learn how we managed to streamline our processes. It was quite an unexpected and fascinating experience that underscored the value of looking beyond one’s own industry can lead to significant improvements and efficiencies, even in fields as seemingly unrelated as aerospace and consumer electronics. In today’s fast-paced world, it’s more important than ever for industries to break out of their silos and look to other sectors for fresh ideas and processes. This kind of cross-industry learning not only fosters innovation but also helps stay competitive in a rapidly changing market. For instance, the aerospace industry has been taking cues from car manufacturers to improve factory automation. And the automotive companies are adopting aerospace processes for systems engineering. Meanwhile, both sectors are picking up tips from tech giants like Apple and Google to boost their electronics and software development. And at Siemens, we partner with racing teams. Why? Because their knack for rapid prototyping and fast-paced development is something we can all learn from to speed up our product development cycles. This cross-pollination of ideas is crucial as industries evolve and integrate more advanced technologies. By exploring best practices from other industries, companies can find innovative new ways to improve their processes and products. After all, how can someone think outside the box, if they are only looking in the box? If you are interested in learning more, I suggest checking out this article by my colleagues Todd Tuthill and Nand Kochhar where they take a closer look at how cross-industry learning are key to developing advanced air mobility solutions. https://lnkd.in/dK3U6pJf

Sustainable Supply Chain 🌎 Supply chains represent a major challenge for businesses in their journey towards sustainability. Addressing this complex issue requires a structured, multi-stage approach. Here’s a five-stage process that can guide companies across various sectors: ▪ Understanding Suppliers: Essential to sustainable supply chain management is a deep awareness of all suppliers, including those beyond direct contact. This understanding helps in identifying and managing risks in extended supply networks. ▪ Evaluating Supplier Practices: Setting and enforcing sustainability standards throughout the supply chain is vital. This step ensures transparency and helps mitigate risks related to environmental, social, and regulatory compliance. ▪ Enhancing Supplier Performance: Utilizing digital tools enhances supply chain communication and efficiency. Regular audits and training initiatives are crucial to align suppliers with sustainability objectives, improving overall performance. ▪ Aligning Goals and Assessing Risks: Companies need to synchronize their supply chain operations with broader ESG goals. Implementing risk assessment frameworks considering environmental, labor, and compliance factors is key in this stage. ▪ Driving Business Transformation: The ultimate goal is a long-term commitment to sustainability. This involves continuous collaboration to achieve substantial goals like reducing emissions, increasing product circularity, and maintaining high disclosure standards. Implementing these stages can transform supply chains into a force for positive change, embedding sustainability at the heart of business operations. Source: ERM - Environmental Resources Management #sustainability #sustainable #supplychain #business #climatechange #climateaction #esg #impact #sustainablebusiness

Freeze Pollution, Taste Change. Water pollution is a silent, insidious threat. Easy to ignore amid the hustle of daily life, but it's everywhere... industrial dyes and chemicals seeping into rivers, lakes turning murky with waste, and ecosystems collapse under the weight of human recklessness. It's not just the wildlife or fragile ecosystems at risk... it's the water we depend on. The stuff of life itself. Three students from the National Taiwan University of the Arts decided to confront this crisis in an out-of-the-box kind of way. What began as a graduation project quickly transformed into a striking environmental campaign that gripped global social media... ice-lollies made from polluted water. Not the kind you'd want to lick on a summer day. Their "in-edible" ice-lollies came in a vibrant array of colours, thanks to the industrial dyes and chemicals contaminating local waterways. Many also came with an additional bonus... cigarette butts, dirt, bugs, and even dead fish sealed inside. The three water-popsicle entrepreneurs then elected to go the conventional marketing route by wrapping their lollies in colourful packaging. Labels displayed the water source and its grim contents, leaving no room to look away. Totally transparent. By turning pollution into something tangible—and repulsive—the campaign forced people to confront the damage caused by carelessness. Made water pollution visible, visceral, and impossible to ignore. We're constantly bombarded with images and messages about the importance of taking care of our environment. It's easy to feel overwhelmed and helpless. Amid a sea of environmental messages, this campaign really stands out by blending creativity with confrontation. The lollies are not just objects, they're a wake-up call. A stark reminder that what we discard into nature doesn't just disappear... it lingers, accumulates, and eventually circles back. Effective campaigning doesn't just deliver a message, it creates a moment, a pause, an unease that demands reflection. These polluted lollies d0 just that. So, what do you think? Can design and shock value truly spark the change we need? Or does the real challenge lie in moving beyond awareness to meaningful action... 📷Yi-chen Hong/Yi-hui Guo/Yu-di Zheng/Peter Parks

📢 The Center for the Governance of Change (IE University) has published this week a Brief for Policy and Decision Makers on Data Collaboratives (based upon a paper I drafted and presented this week in #Madrid). Some key points: 🌏 Bridging the Data Divide: The Urgent Need for Collaborative Action In today’s digitally driven society, data has cemented its place as a cornerstone of progress and innovation. Yet, we find ourselves grappling with a persistent issue - data asymmetries that widen the chasm of inequality and hinder advancement in pivotal sectors such as health, finance, and the evolving workspace. 🤝 #CollaborationIsTheKey While the abundance of data is unmistakable, its benefits are far from uniformly dispersed across society. Existing approaches to open data have been less fruitful than anticipated, unable to fully unlock the boundless public good potential harbored in the data realm. 🇪🇺 Navigating Policy Waters The forthcoming EU Data Act presents a golden opportunity to overhaul data sharing protocols and foster a landscape ripe for innovative solutions. Yet, concerns linger, with critiques pinpointing a lack of comprehensive frameworks that encourage cross-sectoral data sharing and promote public data stewardship. 📊 Data Collaboratives: A Beacon of Hope Data collaboratives stand as a beacon of hope in navigating these troubled waters. Bringing together entities from diverse sectors to pool data resources can be a game changer in addressing public dilemmas. 🤔 But to transform this promising model into a beacon of change, we must forge a path grounded in: ✅ Strengthen the Demand for Data: Crafting a new science of pertinent questions to delineate public and private hurdles that can be surmounted through data collaboration. ✅ Responsible Stewardship: Cultivating data stewards who can foster responsible sharing cultures and pinpoint collaborative opportunities. ✅ Clear Incentives: Defining clear incentives to usher private sectors into collaborative realms, underscored by market-led compensation mechanisms. ✅ Trust and Engagement: Building a societal license for data reuse through sustained public engagement and prudent regulatory frameworks. ✅ Data-Driven Insights: Nurturing a data-driven approach to comprehend and enhance collaboration dynamics, ensuring accountability and sustainability. ➡️ Let us embrace the ethos of data collaboration, stewarding data towards a future where it serves as a public force, propelling society into an era of equitable progress and innovation. 💻 Download at: https://lnkd.in/eAJ8FdJn 📕 Full paper on Data Collaboratives: https://lnkd.in/e-7MFGx7 ➡️ IE Project on the digital revolution and the social contract: https://lnkd.in/eVRKmCmG #data #collaboration #datastewardship #data4good #governance #socialcontract #innovation #change

Earlier this week, Principles for Responsible Investment published its latest guide: "Sustainability in supply chains: A guide for private markets investors." The guide offers insights to investors on how sustainability risks in supply chains can be assessed and managed, and how effective supply chain due diligence can directly create value. Yesterday, during a panel discussion at the 2025 Supply Chain Sustainability School (UK) Summit, we touched on this topic in the context of making sustainability data reporting 'work'. For those working in sustainability, particularly where limited legal frameworks currently exist, it's unfortunately not always enough to frame supply chain due diligence as "the right thing to do". The PRI report highlights that there is a sound business case in adopting robust supply chain due diligence methods. Some key takeaways include: ➡️ Strong ESG practices enhance brand reputation and open new market opportunities. ➡️ Early identification of risks (including carbon-intensive operations) cuts costs and improves efficiency. ➡️ Reducing supply chain risk boosts investor confidence, often enhancing valuations and lowering borrowing costs. ➡️ Increased supply chain resilience helps to protect businesses from geopolitical, regulatory and environmental shocks. While written for the investment community, the guide provides equally valuable insights for businesses embedding supply chain due diligence into their operations and the business case in doing so. I've attached a copy for those who might be interested in reading more.

The 2025 Goldman Prize winners Yesterday, seven environmental activists were awarded the 2025 Goldman Environmental Prize (https://lnkd.in/gWaYAJaV), recognizing the power of local action in the face of global ecological threats. From Tunisia to Peru, these individuals have stood up to corporate interests, rallied communities, and challenged governments. Though their causes span continents, their convictions converge: that people, and the planet, deserve better. 🌳 Semia Gharbi (Tunisia): A scientist and educator, Gharbi helped expose a waste trafficking scandal in which Italian household garbage was mislabeled and shipped to Tunisia. Her advocacy led to the return of 6,000 tons of waste, the prosecution of corrupt officials, and strengthened European rules on international waste shipments. 🌳 Batmunkh Luvsandash (Mongolia): An octogenarian electrical engineer and lifelong herder, Luvsandash led efforts to protect the fragile Gobi Desert from copper mining. He hand-drew maps identifying vulnerable ecosystems, resulting in a 205,600-acre reserve now shielded from extraction. 🌳 Besjana Guri and Olsi Nika (Albania): A social worker and ecologist duo who fought to preserve the wild Vjosa River. Their grassroots campaign blocked dozens of proposed dams and secured Europe's first wild river national park. 🌳 Carlos Mallo Molina (Spain): A former port engineer turned activist, Molina halted a proposed harbor in a marine protected area off Tenerife. His work preserved vital whale and turtle habitat and paved the way for a marine conservation center instead. 🌳 Laurene Allen (United States): A social worker who became an expert on toxic PFAS chemicals, Allen led a campaign via that shut down a polluting plastics plant in New Hampshire. She continues to push for stronger regulations and corporate accountability. 🌳 Mari Luz Canaquiri Murayari (Peru): A Kukama leader who spearheaded the legal recognition of the Marañón River as a rights-bearing entity. Her victory holds the state and oil companies accountable for environmental harm—and sets a powerful legal precedent for river protection in Latin America. These are not household names. But their impact reverberates far beyond their borders. Mongabay News: https://lnkd.in/grfjMh7H Goldman Environmental Prize: https://lnkd.in/g3-pUwZ3

Inclusion isn’t a one-time initiative or a single program—it’s a continuous commitment that must be embedded across every stage of the employee lifecycle. By taking deliberate steps, organizations can create workplaces where all employees feel valued, respected, and empowered to succeed. Here’s how we can make a meaningful impact at each stage: 1. Attract Build inclusive employer branding and equitable hiring practices. Ensure job postings use inclusive language and focus on skills rather than unnecessary credentials. Broaden recruitment pipelines by partnering with diverse professional organizations, schools, and networks. Showcase your commitment to inclusion in external messaging with employee stories that reflect diversity. 2. Recruit Eliminate bias and promote fair candidate evaluation. Use structured interviews and standardized evaluation rubrics to reduce bias. Train recruiters and hiring managers on unconscious bias and inclusive hiring practices. Implement blind resume reviews or AI tools to focus on qualifications, not identifiers. 3. Onboard Create an inclusive onboarding experience. Design onboarding materials that reflect a diverse workplace culture. Pair new hires with mentors or buddies from Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) to foster belonging. Offer inclusion training early to set the tone for inclusivity from day one. 4. Develop Provide equitable opportunities for growth. Ensure leadership programs and career development resources are accessible to underrepresented employees. Regularly review training, mentorship, and promotion programs to address any disparities. Offer specific development opportunities, such as allyship training or workshops on cultural competency. 5. Engage Foster a culture of inclusion. Actively listen to employee feedback through pulse surveys, focus groups, and open forums. Support ERGs and create platforms for marginalized voices to influence organizational policies. Recognize and celebrate diverse perspectives, cultures, and contributions in the workplace. 6. Retain Address barriers to equity and belonging. Conduct pay equity audits and address discrepancies to ensure fairness. Create flexible policies that accommodate diverse needs, including caregiving responsibilities, religious practices, and accessibility. Provide regular inclusion updates to build trust and demonstrate progress. 7. Offboard Learn and grow from employee transitions. Use exit interviews to uncover potential inequities and areas for improvement. Analyze trends in attrition to identify and address any patterns of exclusion or bias. Maintain relationships with alumni and invite them to stay engaged through inclusive networks. Embedding inclusion across the employee lifecycle is not just the right thing to do—it’s a strategic imperative that drives innovation, engagement, and organizational success. By making these steps intentional, companies can create environments where everyone can thrive.

Ever wondered how to build a team that feels like a global family? Let’s talk about Workplace Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)! 🌍 As the CEO of Goodman Lantern, I head a vibrant team spread across the world. From how we deliver results to how we solve problems, I have seen that diversity is our strength and inclusion is our superpower. A diverse team brings a wealth of perspectives, fostering creativity and innovation. Inclusion ensures that every voice is heard and valued, making our team more cohesive and collaborative. If you are looking to embrace DEI in the workplace, here are my 3 most important tips: 👇 🌈 Celebrate Differences: Acknowledge and celebrate the unique backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives that each team member brings. Host cultural events, share stories, and encourage open dialogue to build understanding and appreciation. 🌈 Foster an Inclusive Culture: Create policies and practices that promote equity and inclusion. This can include flexible working arrangements, mentorship programmes, and regular DEI training. Make sure that everyone feels welcomed and supported in your workplace. 🌈 Lead by Example: As leaders, it’s crucial to model inclusive behaviour. Show empathy, actively listen, and be open to feedback. Encourage diverse viewpoints and make decisions that reflect a commitment to equity and inclusion. We all want a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered. To achieve this, you need effective internal strategies that work for you and your team. Let us help with that. Explore our DEI services here 👉 https://lnkd.in/gn6y7Za4 #Diversity #Equity #Inclusion #DEIinWorkplace #DiversityAndInclusion #DiversityEquityInclusion

🤓Cocoon Vietnam’s Rise: The Power of CSR in Market Expansion & Brand Loyalty. The beauty industry, both globally and in Vietnam, is constantly evolving as consumers seek better quality and meaningful experiences. While product quality is a given, what really makes consumers trust and love a brand? What transforms a brand from a simple purchase into a lifestyle choice? And in a dynamic, fast-paced market like Vietnam, especially for young, value-driven consumers like Gen Z, what key approaches ensure lasting impact? Cocoon, a pioneer in vegan and cruelty-free beauty in Vietnam, has answered these questions by setting out a clear and purpose-driven philosophy, caring for consumers physically and emotionally, inside and out. This is where CSR becomes more than just responsibility, it becomes what brings products closer to consumers, fosters emotional connection, and reassures them they are making the right choices. ✅ Touch points matter - Cocoon boasts 2,000+ retail locations nationwide. ✅ Authenticity in CSR – Align social responsibility efforts with brand & personal identity to build deeper consumer trust.   ✅ Localized Market Approach – Integrate cultural traditions and regional ingredients to form strong emotional connections. (Dak Lak Coffee & Pomelo).   ✅ Sustainability as a Selling Point – Today’s eco-conscious consumers favor brands with transparent, long-term commitments to sustainability.    ✅ Community & Influencer Engagement – Collaborate with local influencers & communities to drive brand loyalty through interactive storytelling. (Cocoon x Suboi's 'Love Your Nature' campaign was a master class 😉) #CocoonVietnam #SustainableBeauty #CSRSuccess #EcoFriendly #VeganBeautyKindly #Vietnam Sources: Cocoon Vietnam - Live Green Every Day Program Cocoon Vietnam - Refill Stations at Guardian Cocoon Vegan Malaysia - Battery Recycling Program The Saigon Times - Cocoon Vietnam’s Sustainability Efforts Upbase - Market Analysis of Vietnam’s Cosmetics Industry Buzzmetrics - Love Your Nature CSR Campaign Award  

How Hinduism Promote Environmental Awareness Hindu festivals actively promote environmental awareness by integrating nature reverence, sustainable practices, and community education into their celebrations. Hindu traditions celebrate Earth Day by expressing deep reverence for nature, seeing the Earth as Bhudevi or Prithvi Ma (Mother Earth), and emphasizing the interconnectedness of all life. समुद्रवसने देवि पर्वतस्तनमण्डले । विष्णुपत्नि नमस्तुभ्यं पादस्पर्शं क्षमस्वमे ॥ Nature Reverence and Biodiversity Many festivals honor elements of nature and wildlife, teaching respect and protection for biodiversity. For example, Nag Panchami celebrates snakes, highlighting their ecological role, while festivals like Govardhan Puja and Ganesh Chaturthi honor cows and elephants, reinforcing the importance of coexistence with animals and conservation of species. Eco-Friendly Rituals Traditional rituals use natural materials such as clay lamps (diyas), flowers, leaves, and organic colors instead of plastics or chemicals. Festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi increasingly use clay Vigraha and natural dyes, reducing water and soil pollution. Tree worship is central to festivals like Tulsi Vivah and Vat Purnima, encouraging the planting and protection of trees as symbols of ecological balance. Community Education and Action Festivals are platforms for spreading environmental messages. Workshops and community events teach eco-friendly practices, such as proper waste disposal, recycling, and the use of biodegradable materials. Initiatives like eco-friendly idol contests and green festival campaigns inspire communities to adopt sustainable habits, blending tradition with environmental responsibility. Underlying Philosophy Hindu teachings emphasize the interconnectedness of all life and the duty (dharma) to protect nature. Principles like ahimsa (non-violence) and aparigraha (non-possessiveness) encourage minimal harm and responsible consumption, aligning festival practices with sustainability. Specific Hindu Rituals Related to Nature Tree Worship; Sacred trees like Peepal, Banyan, Neem, and Tulsi are regularly worshipped. Festivals like Vat Savitri and Vriksha Puja are dedicated to tree worship. The Tulsi plant is worshipped daily in many homes, and special rituals like Tulsi Vivah celebrate its significance. Rituals include watering the roots, tying sacred threads, offering flowers and lamps, and reciting mantras such as “Om Vrikshaaya Namah”. Rudraksha and Bilva leaves are offered to Shiva, and specific flowers are used in deity worship according to tradition. These rituals reflect the Hindu belief in the divinity of all natural elements and foster a deep sense of environmental stewardship and gratitude. #Earthday #Environment #Bhudevi #Prithvi #Mata #Hinduism