How can society urge multi-national corporations to WANT to be more socially consious?

Question

Emphasis being on MNCs, the IMF, WTO, and World Bank. Subjects being specifically environmental sustainability and economic progress for low income populations.

Answer 1

oh, if you hit them where it hurts, like in the wallet (translation: dip into their profits), they'll see the light. fine them for each & every infraction played against the betterment & welfare of society. large & huge corporations don't have to shell out lots of money & in fact, i would be appalled if they did. raw cash usually ends up in everyone's pockets but those of intent. no! best to aid with knowledge and take it from there. like the old adage: buy a man a fish, he eats tonight but teach him how to fish, he's fed for life.

Answer 2

Well, in my opinion, these corporations are inherently socially conscious. They have to be to maximize their overall bottom line. Multi-national corporations also have the consumer's best interest in mind for the same reason. By supporting environmental associations and promoting progress for low income populations, they promote their own image of a benevolent corporation interested in the common good of the community they operate in.

Answer 3

They already are. Many of them are working with NGO and non-profits. The reasons that they are doing so are complicated. In some cases, it is because it will be profitable. In other cases, it will raise their reputation, which has been tarnished in recent years.

For example, Coke is working with the World Wildlife Fund to clean up watersheds in the areas surrounding their bottling plants. This is because Coke relies on the local water supply to make its product. They need reliable clean water, and they have been working to clean up some areas.

Another example, is Mobile. They have been working to support alternative energy sources, such as wind, solar, and biofuels. Part of their motivation is economic -- there is a growing demand out there for alternative energy sources -- but they also want to erase their image as a fat, greedy, and opportunistic oil company.