4th Annual CSR Leadership Course – May 4 and 5, 2017
Around the world and across industries, the subject of corporate social responsibility (CSR) is gaining unprecedented attention for both the business sector and the legal profession. Human rights and the environment are impacted by most every aspect of corporate activity—from the use of energy and natural resources for general operations to source material extraction and the processing, shipping, selling and, ultimately, disposing of products to the terms of employment throughout these networks, and effects on neighboring communities and global consumers alike. Reports of the negative social and environmental impact of products, services and operations of companies and their supply chains reach the press on a regular basis, and consumers, shareholders, and civil society are increasingly calling on companies to improve their social and environmental footprints and develop sustainable business practices.
Companies on the cutting edge of CSR report improved performance in both social and environmental outcomes as well as their financial bottom lines. Benefits cited include enhanced reputations and stronger brands; happier, healthier, and more productive work forces; and lower costs from reduced carbon emissions and other environmental measures. Responsible business has tremendous potential for companies and society at large.
In 2014, Fordham Law launched an annual CSR Leadership Course for lawyers, business professionals, CSR practitioners and service providers, and graduate students in law and business to explore the myriad dimensions of corporate citizenship. Unique in American legal education, this course convenes industry leaders to provide participants with a robust understanding of the law surrounding CSR and to introduce them to a range of practical instruments and mechanisms available to help navigate this challenging terrain.
The fourth annual CSR Leadership Course will be held Thursday and Friday, May 4 and 5, 2017. Speakers from Yahoo, AT&T, Clifford Chance, Deloitte & Touche, Ernst & Young, IBM, Morgan Stanley, Pfizer, PVH, Ropes & Gray, SHIFT, and the UN Global Compact will join Fordham Law faculty to explore the challenges and opportunities companies face in this rapidly developing field. Topics include responsible investment, developments in U.S. corporate law, sustainability reporting, business and environment, the U.N. Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, and the role of the private sector in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.