Companies indulge in socially responsible investment for two reasons; they want to give back to the community or they think its an easy way of advertisements. While the corporate sector in the developed world is trying to brush aside this popular notion and has got some success; corporate players in the developing world have no such plans.

Let me give you some examples. Pakistan Tobbaco Co. is one of the oldest industrial establishments in the country and is quite profitable. Though in recent years, the company has launched some campaigns to create awareness about sale of cigarettes to under age (a big issue in Pakistan) but has failed to implement a workable solution. It has also not done enough to curtail emissions. It’s ironic, however, that the company is involved in a significant afforestation campaign since the mid 80’s. Now I would not discourage the company to stop the tree plantation campaign, which is commendable, but - I will also keep an account of the emissions from the company’s production units.

Another example is of ICI Pakistan. The company has done some projects in the social and environmental sector but is not-so-responsible when it comes to pollution.

I have cited just two examples but there are scores of other companies who are doing good in one sector but have equally irresponsible behavior in the other; especially their own field of business. This phenomenon is not just limited to environment but is also very much there in dealing with the workforce.

The ideal solution to this apparent hypocrisy and double standards is to reinvent yourself according to the modern regime of doing business. Pakistani companies have long neglected the changing trends of the global economy including the rising popularity of green business. I think it’s time to rend and its time to sew - our business style.

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