Energy Sustainability in Texas Corporate Social Responsibility and Green Practices

Abstract

Research shows that greenhouse gases warm the planet by trapping infrared radiation with fossil fuel production being a major source of greenhouse gas production. If the atmospheric concentrations of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases continue to rise, the planet’s current life support systems will be degraded. There is a need for more efficient and climate friendly sources of energy by adopting environmentally friendly practices (green practices).

This research evaluates the extent to which municipal utility organizations in Texas adopt corporate social responsibility and green practices. The study examines the reasons why some municipal utility organizations adopt corporate social responsibility and green practices while others do not. The research also looks at the impediments to adopting these practices.

In the first step of analysis, the research empirically validates cities’ behaviors with regard to adoption of corporate social responsibility and green practices. Practices such as reduction in waste, reduction in emission, usage of renewable sources of energy, usage of recycling, being efficient and being socially responsible corporations are examined.

Green practices adopted by municipalities are analyzed in detail. Results show that the non-profit nature of municipalities is not an impediment to adoption of green practices. There is also evidence that styles of management did play a role in the intensity of green practices adopted. Finally, the research analysis sheds light on the organizational behavior that facilitates or impedes adoption of green practices. Results indicate that there are several green practices adopted by cities which can impact climate change management. The research also shows variation in the degree of adoption of these practices across cities.

This is a pilot study which represents a stepping stone for similar studies in the future. The study concludes with an exploration of the policy implications of such behavior and practices and the overall contribution to the sustainability debate. This work explores what kind of policies might be useful for rural communities regarding adoption of renewable energy.