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Why

Companies have a profound influence on society—economically, culturally, and environmentally. Their impact extends far beyond the products or services they sell.

Economically, companies create jobs, drive innovation, and shape markets. They influence income distribution, working conditions, and even national policies through lobbying or partnerships with governments.

Culturally, brands shape values, aspirations, and lifestyles. Advertising and corporate messaging can influence how people see success, beauty, and happiness. Global companies, in particular, can spread cultural norms across borders, sometimes enriching diversity but also risking cultural homogenization.

Socially and environmentally, companies affect communities through their supply chains, environmental footprint, and corporate social responsibility initiatives. Ethical business practices—like fair trade, sustainability, and inclusivity—can foster trust and social progress, while unethical behavior can lead to inequality, exploitation, or ecological harm.

In recent years, there’s been a growing expectation for companies to act as responsible citizens—balancing profit with purpose and contributing positively to the world.

What

Companies can take many meaningful actions to positively influence society while still achieving their business goals.

1. Adopt ethical business practices – Ensure transparency, fairness, and integrity in all operations, from supply chains to marketing.
2. Prioritize sustainability – Reduce waste, lower carbon emissions, and invest in renewable energy or circular economy models.
3. Support employee well-being – Offer fair wages, flexible work options, mental health support, and opportunities for growth.
4. Engage in community development – Partner with local organizations, fund education or health initiatives, and encourage employee volunteering.
5. Promote diversity and inclusion – Create equitable workplaces that reflect and respect different backgrounds, perspectives, and identities.
6. Practice responsible innovation – Develop products and technologies that solve real problems without harming people or the planet.
7. Be transparent and accountable – Report on social and environmental impact, not just financial performance.
8. Advocate for positive change – Use their influence to support policies that protect human rights, the environment, and social equity.

When companies align their purpose with societal well-being, they not only strengthen their reputation but also build long-term trust and resilience.

Who

Several companies around the world have taken notable steps to influence society positively through their actions and values:

1. Patagonia – Known for its environmental activism, it donates a portion of profits to environmental causes, encourages product repair and reuse, and recently transferred ownership to a trust ensuring all profits go toward protecting the planet.
2. Ben & Jerry’s – Actively advocates for social justice, climate action, and fair trade. The company integrates activism into its brand identity and supports grassroots movements.
3. Unilever – Through its Sustainable Living Plan, it focuses on reducing environmental impact, improving health and well-being, and enhancing livelihoods across its global supply chain.
4. LEGO Group – Invests heavily in sustainability, including using plant-based plastics and renewable energy, while promoting creativity and learning among children worldwide.
5. Salesforce – Implements a 1-1-1 model, donating 1% of equity, 1% of product, and 1% of employee time to charitable causes, fostering a culture of corporate philanthropy.
6. IKEA – Works toward becoming climate-positive by 2030, sourcing sustainable materials, and supporting affordable housing and refugee employment programs.
7. TOMS – Pioneered the “One for One” model, donating shoes for every pair sold, and has since evolved to fund grassroots organizations addressing systemic issues like mental health and access to education.

These examples show how companies can integrate purpose into their business models, influencing society in ways that go beyond profit.

Call to action

Presentation – Social Responsibility by Guðbjörg Eggertsdóttir