9: Difference between the CSR and CER

Though this slide shows the difference between CSR and CER, it largely highlights the Paradox of Development: Environmental Duties vs. Social Neglect. while environmental and social responsibilities have dedicated frameworks like CER and CSR, socioeconomic aspects often get side-tracked in development projects.

Corporate Environment Responsibility (CER) might seem robust – project-specific clearances, budgets allocated, compliance reports submitted. But is it enough? CER activities, often temporary and packaged, lack long-term vision and moral commitment. They’re driven by project clearance, not genuine environmental stewardship.

Contrast this with Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). Mandated by law, CSR demands 2% of profits be directed towards social upliftment. It has teeth – penalty clauses and annual reporting hold companies accountable. Plus, CSR embraces direct and indirect interventions, suggesting a more systematic and responsible approach.

So, with seemingly strong frameworks in place, why is the socio-economic aspect of development the neglected stepchild? Why the persistent prioritization of commercial gains over social well-being? This lopsided focus breeds disparity, widening the gap between the “haves” and the “have-nots.”

This raises crucial questions:

• Are existing frameworks enough under development projects, or do we need stronger enforcement mechanisms for socio-economic considerations?
• How can we incentivize businesses to truly invest in the communities they impact, beyond ticking compliance boxes?
• How can we shift the development paradigm from profit-driven to one that prioritizes inclusive, sustainable progress?

Exploring these questions and advocating for a more balanced approach is critical. We need to move beyond mere compliance and towards genuine commitment to improving the lives of those affected by development projects. Only then can we truly bridge the gap between environmental duties and social responsibility, building a future where economic progress benefits all.