Eine nachhaltige Kaffeeindustrie - Potenziale des Fairtrade-Konzeptes im Rahmen der sozialen und ökologischen Dimension einer CSR

Abstract

This thesis examines the research question to what extent Fair Trade could support social and environmental sustainability as a component of Corporate Social Responsibility, using the coffee industry as an example. For this context, the current social and ecological conditions of the coffee industry are presented in the second chapter. Furthermore, the concept of Fair Trade is introduced by listing its criteria and goals as well as the certification process of Fair Trade. Following this, social and environmental sustainability as a component of corporate social responsibility is discussed with the definition of sustainability in the third chapter, focusing on the goals of the social and environmental dimension. The sustainability strategy: Corporate Social Responsibility – is also explained in more detail with regard to these dimensions. The fourth chapter analyses Fair Trade's support for CSR in the coffee industry, comparing its possibilities and limitations, and concludes with an evaluation. The sustainable production of goods promotes the reduction of emissions so that the ecosystem can be positively influenced. Likewise, living incomes enable the social conditions of coffee producers. Therefore, the support of fair trade as an instrument of CSR is in the interest of sustainable economic development. Nevertheless, political and legal frameworks are necessary as a control mechanism.