Complete the following:
· Choose an organization. (It can be something that interests you, where you work, or a company you are familiar with.)
· Access the organization’s website and research the mission and vision statements and code of ethics.
· Review the QuickStart: Mission and Vision media piece to support your understanding of these concepts.
Full Answer Section
Patagonia's vision can be inferred as a world where businesses prioritize environmental sustainability and social responsibility, leading to a healthier planet and a more equitable society.
Analysis:
- Broader Impact: Their vision extends beyond their products to influence the entire business landscape.
- Long-Term Sustainability: They emphasize a future where environmental concerns are integrated into business practices.
- Social Equity: Their actions and statements also reflect a concern for fair labor practices and social justice.
3. Code of Ethics (Found in their "Our Footprint" and "Environmental & Social Responsibility" sections of the Website):
Patagonia's code of ethics is embedded in their overall business practices and includes:
- Environmental Responsibility:
- Using recycled and organic materials.
- Reducing waste and carbon emissions.
- Supporting environmental activism.
- "1% for the Planet" commitment, donating 1% of sales to environmental causes.
- Fair Labor Practices:
- Ensuring safe and fair working conditions throughout their supply chain.
- Working with factories that adhere to strict labor standards.
- Promoting fair trade practices.
- Transparency and Accountability:
- Providing detailed information about their environmental and social impact.
- Being transparent about their supply chain and manufacturing processes.
- Taking responsibility for their actions.
- Product Durability:
- Encouraging customers to repair rather than replace products.
- Providing repair services.
- Creating products that last.
Analysis:
- Integrated Approach: Their code of ethics is not a separate document but an integral part of their business operations.
- Stakeholder Focus: They consider the impact of their actions on various stakeholders, including the environment, workers, and customers.
- Long-Term Perspective: They prioritize long-term sustainability over short-term profits.
- Authenticity: Their actions align with their stated values, building trust with their customers and the public.
Sample Answer
Organization: Patagonia, Inc.
Patagonia is an outdoor apparel company known for its commitment to environmentalism and ethical business practices.
1. Mission Statement (From Patagonia's Website):
"Build the best product, cause no unnecessary harm, use business to inspire and implement solutions to the environmental crisis."
Analysis:
- Focus on Product Quality: "Build the best product" highlights their dedication to creating durable and functional outdoor gear.
- Environmental Responsibility: "Cause no unnecessary harm" and "use business to inspire and implement solutions to the environmental crisis" demonstrate their core values and commitment to sustainability.
- Action-Oriented: The mission is not just a statement of intent but a call to action.
2. Vision Statement (Implied, Not Explicitly Stated as a "Vision" but Derived from their actions and communications):