Corporate Social Responsibility in Major Infrastructure Projects

A recent Nature Bound tour conducted for a leading Australian energy company revealed

the conscientious depth to which the owner / managers of major projects in the bush must now respond to environmental and corporate social responsibility issues. Aspects having a profound impact on the delivery of their projects and in turn the reputation of key stakeholders.

The journey highlighted the enormity of logistical and environmental issues ranging across several regions, numerous landowners and the need for 4WD access to key remote locations.

It also highlighted the yawning gap between city and country. The need to foster and acknowledge responsible exploration on which the nation and cities inevitably depend. The wealth of knowledge these remote projects offer city folk who dare to discover the realities of the country.

The fact is many of these projects can be incredibly interesting to the discerning observer.

So often corporate opportunities are lost, to schedule informative tours for contractors, shareholders and investors. Also government officials, community groups, board members, key management and staff, industry based media and tertiary education groups, not to mention “Mr Citizen”.

Younger professionals on which these projects depend are born into a belief in corporate social commitment and transparency.

Such touring initiatives bring a finer understanding and connection between city and country. They generate revenue for communities in the bush, while building a credible corporate brand and project.

A greater understanding of nature and the Australian bush, particularly by overseas proponents and consultants to major infrastructure projects is essential to vital decision making.