CSR Disclosure and Performance Evaluation in the Fashion Sector: Focus on Benetton Group Practices

Abstract

This thesis explores the relationship of sustainable innovation, corporate social responsibility (CSR), and sustainability reporting within the fashion industry. The first chapter provides an overview of sustainable innovation and CSR, examining their definitions, evolution over time, and correlation with organizational performance. It also examines how corporate social responsibility (CSR) influences innovation practices within businesses and what impact has the engagement in to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices. The second chapter main focus are the economic implications of mandatory disclosure and reporting standards for CSR and related topics. It covers the goal and audience perspectives of CSR reporting in addition to the potential economic consequences and implementation challenges. The last two chapter are the core of the thesis with and emphasis on the environmental and social impacts in the fashion industry and the main sustainability challenges that the industry has to face. The third chapter also present some of the environmental and social certification that may be applied to fashion industry. Whereas the following chapter analyses more in detail Benetton Group sustainability initiatives, from their sustainable materials guidelines, social and environmental sustainability initiatives. The conclusion reflects on the importance of assessing and sharing sustainability performance in light of changing CSR reporting regulations and increasing demand of CSR from consumers.