On the sector-specific responsibilities of the nuclear industry

Can companies in sectors viewed critically by the public, such as the nuclear industry, actually be socially responsible and act in a socially responsible manner? In what way? How can the social behaviour of companies in the nuclear energy sector be measured? These and other questions are the focus of Dr Beatrix Kuhlen’s project, which is funded by the Hamburger Stiftung für Wirtschaftsethik.

Background

Triggered by corporate scandals, consumer boycotts and public campaigns against companies are becoming increasingly common. Today, companies must be aware of their social responsibility. This encompasses social, economic and environmental factors and is referred to as ‘corporate responsibility’ (CR). Companies that fail to fulfil their social responsibility in these areas must expect to suffer reputational damage.

The nuclear industry is a sector within the energy sector that faces strong public criticism. Companies in this sector have a particular responsibility towards people and the environment, as the potential for damage in the event of a nuclear accident is particularly high. There is therefore a growing demand from consumers for transparency regarding corporate practices. For example, there is an interest in being able to assess companies’ behaviour on the basis of appropriate reporting. In this context, it is essential that environmental and social aspects are taken into account alongside economic ones.

Dr Kuhlen is investigating what actions nuclear energy suppliers can take to successfully implement the corporate responsibility (CR) concept within the framework of the so-called triple bottom line (economic, environmental and social). Her work develops specific, sector-specific sets of criteria for assessing the social responsibility of companies in the nuclear energy sector and establishes a standard framework for evaluating energy supply companies according to ethical criteria.

Beatrix Kuhlen: Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). The ethical responsibility of companies towards the environment, the economy and society. Development, initiatives, reporting, assessment.