This is a motivation letter therefore it’s not a research paper but rather a statement of opinion and values. They look for candidate who have leadership potential, and who value sustainability as this is a core theme in Denmark and the university that I’m applying to which is based in Denmark. What does CSR and sustainability mean to you in the business context?  (Max 500 words) 

QUESTION

This is a motivation letter therefore it’s not a research paper but rather a statement of opinion and values. They look for candidate who have leadership potential, and who value sustainability as this is a core theme in Denmark and the university that I’m applying to which is based in Denmark.

What does CSR and sustainability mean to you in the business context?  (Max 500 words) 

Below are some ideas that you can write about

-Why is it so important

-Overall trends, the idea that people and businesses are realizing that it’s highly important

-Why carbon offset programs is a very passive way of dealing with sustainability, and companies should have a more active involvement and becoming sustainable. For example, I business should go beyond just giving money, but actually taking action. An example of this is an airline testing and trying biofuels, investing in some of the most efficient aircrafts, planting trees, and providing financial help and physically helping companies like 4Ocean who clean oceans. Another ACTIVE thing an airline can do is become a part of a global organization that represents multi-national companies and assist any company with free travel or cargo activities related to envriomentally friendly practices.

-The idea that businesses can still be profitable, if not more profitable by being sustainable

-The idea that consumers vote with their purchasing decisions

-Give one or two examples of large corporations like integrating sustainable business practices and how they wer successful (a bit of research might be required for this)

-The essay should be an opinion and be written for the first person perspective, in the end the overall goal and message I want to give is that “Sustainability is highly important for me, and Copenhagen Business School reflects my core values and therefore

This is an idea of how it can be started off: “Since the industrial revolution, the idea of conducting ethical and morally responsible business practices has increasingly become a theme amongst in societies and businesses across the world. The evidence pollution is harming the planet is irrefutable, and thus leaders and decision-makers are finally taking this matter seriously.”  It’s up to you if you want to use this.

ANSWER

Embracing Sustainability in Business: A Pathway to Ethical Leadership

Introduction

Since the industrial revolution, conducting ethical and environmentally responsible business practices has become a pressing global concern. The undeniable evidence of pollution’s detrimental effects on our planet has propelled societies and businesses worldwide to recognize the importance of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and sustainability. As I embark on my journey towards a business education at Copenhagen Business School, I am driven by a profound understanding of the significance of sustainability in the business context. In this essay, I will share my opinion and values regarding CSR and sustainability, highlighting their importance, potential for profitability, and the active role businesses should take to drive meaningful change.

The Importance of CSR and Sustainability

CSR and sustainability have become imperative in today’s business landscape due to their far-reaching consequences. By embracing sustainable practices, businesses can minimize their environmental footprint, contribute to social well-being, and create positive change for future generations. Sustainable businesses recognize the interconnectedness of economic, social, and environmental factors and aim to strike a balance between profitability and responsible resource management. Such an approach fosters long-term viability, enhances brand reputation, and secures a loyal customer base.

The Rise of Sustainable Business Practices

We are witnessing a significant shift in societal values and business attitudes towards sustainability. Increasingly, people and organizations are acknowledging the urgency of addressing environmental challenges. Customers, too, are aligning their purchasing decisions with their values, choosing brands that prioritize sustainability. This trend not only compels businesses to integrate sustainable practices but also presents an opportunity for them to differentiate themselves and gain a competitive edge.

Moving Beyond Carbon Offset Programs

While carbon offset programs are a step in the right direction, businesses should aim for a more proactive approach to sustainability. Merely providing financial support without actively engaging in sustainable initiatives falls short of creating real impact. To exemplify, an airline should go beyond monetary contributions and instead take tangible actions such as testing biofuels, investing in efficient aircraft, supporting ocean cleaning initiatives, and actively participating in global organizations dedicated to environmental practices. By doing so, companies demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and inspire others to follow suit.

Profitability and Sustainability

Contrary to the notion that sustainability hinders profitability, businesses can actually thrive by embracing sustainable practices. Sustainable initiatives often lead to cost savings through increased operational efficiency, reduced resource consumption, and improved risk management. Additionally, sustainable businesses tend to attract a growing consumer segment that prioritizes environmentally friendly products and services. This alignment of values allows companies to build strong brand loyalty and gain a competitive advantage in the marketplace.

Leading Corporations Paving the Way

Several large corporations have successfully integrated sustainable business practices, demonstrating the compatibility of sustainability and profitability. One such example is Patagonia, an outdoor apparel company that operates under a mission to “build the best product, cause no unnecessary harm, and use business to inspire and implement solutions to the environmental crisis.” Through initiatives like product repair, recycling programs, and transparency in their supply chain, Patagonia has not only maintained profitability but also established itself as a sustainability leader, winning the trust and loyalty of environmentally conscious consumers.

Conclusion

Sustainability holds paramount importance in the business context, embodying ethical leadership and responsible decision-making. Embracing sustainability allows businesses to minimize their impact on the environment while maximizing profitability through operational efficiency and customer loyalty. As a motivated candidate with leadership potential, I am deeply committed to sustainable practices and resonate with Copenhagen Business School’s core values. By joining this esteemed institution, I hope to develop the knowledge, skills, and network necessary to contribute to the global movement towards a more sustainable future.

References

Patagonia – Mission Statement. (n.d.). Retrieved from [https://www.patagonia.com/mission-statement.html](https://www.patagonia.com/mission-statement.html) 

Shrivastava, P. (1995). Environmental technologies and competitive advantage. Strategic Management Journal, 16(S1), 183-200. [https://doi.org/10.1002/smj.4250160921](https://doi.org/10.1002/smj.4250160921) 

Szmigin, I., & Carrigan, M. (2000). Environmentalism, ethical consumption and the purchase of social capital. Journal of Marketing Management, 16(5-6), 493-504. [https://doi.org/10.1362/026725700785100248](https://doi.org/10.1362/026725700785100248)