Majority of businesses will stand pat on sustainability, says survey

Despite the nation's attention on eco-friendly programs andpolicies, a new survey suggests most businesses are not planning to step uptheir efforts in this area -- at least not in the next year. When asked whetherthey expect their companies' emphasis on green initiatives to increase,decrease or remain the same in the next 12 months, 68 percent of chief financialofficers (CFOs) interviewed said they anticipate no changes. More than aquarter (28 percent), however, said they expect an increased focus on theissue.

The survey was developed by Robert Half ManagementResources, the world's premier provider of senior-level accounting and financeprofessionals on a project and interim basis. It was conducted by anindependent research firm and includes responses from 1,400 CFOs from astratified random sample of U.S.companies with 20 or more employees.

CFOs were asked, "In the next 12 months, do you expectyour company's focus on green initiatives will increase, decrease or remain thesame?" Their responses:

No change                               68%

Increase significantly               5%

Increase somewhat                  23%

Decrease somewhat                 3%

Decrease significantly             1%

"Many companies may already be pursuing greeninitiatives and not feel they need further investments in the near term,"said Paul McDonald, executive director of Robert Half Management Resources."For other businesses, priorities may have shifted from environmentalinitiatives to returning to profitability, given the difficult economy."

McDonald pointed out that in addition to being good for theenvironment, green initiatives also can save a company money and have apositive effect on morale. "A reputation as a good corporate citizeninstills pride in employees and can enhance recruitment and retentionefforts."

SOURCE: Robert Half Management Resources.