HeLa and The History of the Cell - Free Essay Example

Sample details Pages: 2 Words: 595 Downloads: 8 Date added: 2019/08/02 Category Medicine Essay Level High school Tags: Henrietta Lacks Essay Did you like this example? In February 2010, author and journalist Rebecca Skloot published a book, The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks, which included the stories surrounding the HeLa cell line as well as research into Henrietta Lacks life. In 1951 a poor young black women, Henrietta Lacks was diagnosed with cervical cancer and at the time was treated in the colored ward or segregated division of Johns Hopkins Hospital. The procedure required samples of her cervix to be removed. Don’t waste time! Our writers will create an original "HeLa and The History of the Cell" essay for you Create order Henrietta Lacks, the person who was the source of these cells was unaware of their removal. Her family was never informed about what had been accomplished with the use of her cells. The Lacks family has not received anything from the cell line to this day, although their mothers cells have been bought and sold by many. This bestseller tells the stories of HeLa and traces the history of the cell while highlighting the ethical and legal issues of the research. Henriettas name is associated with HeLa cells after a doctor took her cells without her knowing (the name derives from the first two letters of her first and last names). It is told that George Gey, a cancer researcher at Hopkins was longing to study cancer cells however, the method failed because the cells were studied outside of the body and died. But Henriettas cells did not die. In fact they continued to replicate making what we now know as the HeLa cell. The sample of Henriettas malignant tumor was offered to researchers who saw the cells continue to multiply in culture, and they still continue to grow up to this day. Scientists remain stumped why the HeLa cells survived whereas others didnt. It has been proposed that the immortality of her cells is due to the enzyme telomerase (Reveron, 2011). Telomerase prevents the deterioration of the chromosome and thus restores the ends of the chromosome so that they do not age and die like normal cells. As cells divide telomeres at the en d of chromosomes shorten and ultimately die however telomerase prevents this from happening. Since then, HeLa cells have been used in a number of groundbreaking medical experiments. While these cancer cells ultimately killed her they have been studied for medical advancements and rest in vials to this day. The cells have been used for advancements such as the development of the polio vaccine, the cancer drug tamoxifen, chemotherapy, gene mapping, in vitro fertilization and treatments for influenza, leukemia and Parkinsons Disease (Keiger, 2010). In the book the author points out that over 60,000 studies were published by researchers who used the HeLa cells, which in turn advanced their careers and publications. Aside from the scientific findings and fascinating history in this book, the alarming parts are the personal narratives of Henriettas life and the story her family tells. In 1993 her only living daughter, Deborah continued to fight in order to find out knowledge about her mother. Yet within this biotechnological universe she was given misleading information and was lost in the technical jargon sadly leaving her with no information at all. Meanwhile, these research institutions thrived from the dividing cells. This causes controversy amongst many critics and readers. Science and research are meant to explain difficult concepts relating to the human body, evolution and the universe. Instead there are many instances when it is abused. If Henrietta Lacks cells were taken and being studied for beneficial purposes then there would be no reason not to tell her daughter the simple truth, instead of making it complex. This raises reasonable suspicion that the scientist studying her cells was seeking profit and glory.

An Educator Who Understands Issues Of Diversity And...

An educator who understands issues of diversity and difference will make the classroom a more enriching environment for all of the students in it, and will ensure those students who are adversely affected by such diversity and difference are given the opportunity and encouragement to overcome challenges they face. Socio-economic disadvantage among students has an impact in the classroom in terms of the ability of a child to gain an understanding of the knowledge and skills required to be a successful student. Gender issues can be one of those concerns in a classroom that, unless they are quite obvious, can be almost disregarded because they are not acknowledged as a concern, for example, asking boys to move chairs. Stereotypical roles can be ingrained in an educators psyche. Cultural diversity is becoming more prevalent in our classrooms; it is the educator’s responsibility to ensure the classroom is a welcoming and diverse environment. When considering how to approach th ese issues in a classroom and incorporating support for students, an educator would benefit from consulting the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) or the Australian Curriculum (AC). These documents provides frameworks for working with diversity and ensuring students succeed within their given circumstances with the support of both their educator and their school. It is imperative educators understand the effects of socio-economic disadvantage, gender issues and cultural diversity when creating anShow MoreRelatedDiversity And Diversity Of The Australian Government Provides Educators With Curriculum, Assessment And Reporting Authority921 Words   |  4 Pagesis important for educators to understand issues of diversity and difference to ensure no students are disadvantaged and all students are treated equally. While the Australian Government provides educators with curricula, the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) for Kindergarten educators and the Australian Curriculum, Asses sment and Reporting Authority (ACARA) for primary and high school educators, these curricula should be seen as guidelines and not black and white. Educators will constantly runRead MoreWhy Educators Must Understand Issues Of Diversity And Difference963 Words   |  4 PagesWhy educators must understand issues of diversity and difference. Issues of diversity and difference affect all educators in a multitude of ways. Children have different levels of experience which impact on their educational engagement and learning style. These experiences differ in relation to social class, as well as gender and cultural identity (Ewing, 2013, p. 96; Thompson, 2002, p. 2 – 4). Disadvantaged students frequently become disengaged due to the intended curriculum, which often fails toRead MoreSchool Curriculum And The Early Years Learning Framework972 Words   |  4 PagesIt is essential that educators create safe, welcoming environments that promote learning for all students in a classroom and to do this they must acknowledge issues of diversity and difference and know how to approach these issues. There are two key documents that guide educators in their planning and implementation of curriculum; The Australian Curriculum and The Early Years Learning Framework. Using these two documents to create learning programs, educators must enact an inclusive curriculum thatRead MoreEssay on Diversity and Multicultural Education in the Classroom1561 Words   |  7 Pagesand disabilities can all affect the ways in which we learn. Educators must take special measures in the delivery of classroom instruction to celebrate the learning and cultural differences of each of their students. As communities and schools continue to grow in diversity, teachers are searching for effective educational programs to accommodate the various learning styles of each student while promoting acceptance of cultural differences throughout the classroom. It no longer suffices to plan educationalRead MoreStudents Come From Different Social And Cultural Backgrounds996 Words   |  4 Pagesof different cultures, languages, religious practices, value systems and customs which may alienate them from the dominant culture. Educators must create educational environments, which cater for all microcultural groups to experience educational equality , (Banks, 2006, p. 78); otherwise the learning spaces will become hot spots for issues of diversity and difference. The Australian Curriculum recognises quality education for all students and acknowledges that students’ needs and interests vary, andRead MoreThe Diversity Of The Australian Curriculum972 Words   |  4 Pagespopulation is manifested in students who bring to class their ‘virtual bags,’ (Thomson, 2002), full of different cultures, languages, religious practices, value systems and customs which may alienate them from the dominant culture. Educators must create educational environments, which cater for all microcultural groups to experience educational equality, (Banks, 2006, p. 78); otherwise the learning spaces will become hotspots for issues of diversity and difference. The Australian Curriculum recognisesRead MoreEducation Is A High Indicator Of Social Disadvantage880 Words   |  4 PagesAs educators, it is important to understand issues of dive rsity and difference to ensure that all students are treated with respect, shown equality and equity. The curriculum should provide all students with an education that acknowledges diversity and differences (SCSA, n.d). Teachers should be able to provide a high quality of teaching which is relevant and enriching to ensure that students can achieve their full potential and can be successful at school. There are children from different socioeconomicRead MoreMulticultural Class And Socioeconomic Status1417 Words   |  6 Pagesform in American school systems across the country. Educators have to create their instruction in such a way to be inclusive toward all these groups, especially in very diverse areas. By teaching about different cultures to the class they can have a better understanding of where their classmates originate from and be more accepting. Teachers set an example in the classroom for students. If teachers are discriminatory or unaccepting towards those who look differ ent, students will pick up on these subtleRead MoreEarly Childhood Educators Promote Diversity, And As A Result Improve Academic Outcomes1413 Words   |  6 Pagesmore multicultural, the need for educators to provide support to different family structures increases. This review will examine strategies utilized by early childhood educators to promote diversity, and as a result improve academic outcomes. Most data related to diversity in the classroom is derived from research in pre-school and Head Start programs. Although there are other avenues for early childhood education, including home-based and center-based childcare, this research will focus on pre-KRead MoreThe Diversity Of Physical Education1528 Words   |  7 Pagesexperiences. The key to overcoming this obstacle is to recognize that every individual is distinctive and understand that although everyone is different, everyone has the same equal opportunity to learn and grow despite these differences. All professions deal with issues surrounding diversity, but especially in the profession of physical education. The diverse population physical educators work with vary in terms of race, socioeconomic standing, gender, ability and health levels (Gallo Matthews

The Development of Attachment Theory and Its Strengths and...

The Development of Attachment Theory and Its Strengths and Limitations English psychiatrist John Bowlby is a leading and influential figure within the history of social reform. His work has influenced social work policies and legislation relating to child psychiatry and psychology. Bowlby was trained as a psychoanalyst, and was influenced by Freudians theories, but became influenced again in his attachment theory by the work of ethologists. The ethologists theory concentrates on looking at the role parents play rather than only the child. Bowlby believes that parenting has strong ties with biology and it explains why there are such strong emotions attached. Bowlby’s main idea was that of the main†¦show more content†¦The studies revealed that the monkeys chose to feed from the uncomfortable wire support first then went on to cling to the comfortable and warm cloth covered support, this revealed that contact comfort was more important than just being fed. These monkeys went onto becoming severely debilitated in their social relationsh ips and also made incapable parents. Bowlby also believed that another important aspect in the development of child rearing is the importance of timing. There is a critical period of bonding between mother and baby which must take place at 6-12 hours after the birth; the contact must take place within that time otherwise attachment risks failure. This belief comes from the ethologists influence of imprinting with young animals primarily goslings. Lorenz (1935) revealed strong bonds with non-humans with first moving objects that they encounter; which was not always with the mother. In precocial species the mobile young animal needs to quickly identify its caregiver and remain close to them for survival. This is known as imprinting. As this happens before any feeding has taken place the study on Rhesus monkeys does not apply in the same way. Firstly Lorenz used goslings which are called precocial; meaning that they quickly develop to move around, and have well developed sense organs. Human babies take much longer to become thatShow MoreRelatedEssay about The Importance of Attachment for the Childrens Development869 Words   |  4 PagesAttachment theory is the idea that a child needs to form a close relationship with at least one primary caregiver. The theory proved that attachment is necessary to ensure successful social and emotional development in an infant. It is critical for this to occur in the child’s early i nfant years. However, failed to prove that this nurturing can only be given by a mother (Birns, 1999, p. 13). Many aspects of this theory grew out of psychoanalyst, John Bowlby’s research. There are several other factorsRead MoreJohn Bowlby s Theory Of Attachment1581 Words   |  7 Pages According to Smith et al (2011) the most dramatic developmental changes occur in the prenatal development, infancy and childhood, as new-borns develop into young adulthood capable of becoming a parent themselves. This assignment will discuss the developmental stage of a chosen child scenario and apply to John Bowlby’s theory of attachment. It will also discuss the key safeguarding issues within the child scenario and how they could have been prohibited. Scenario The chosen child scenario forRead MoreThe Origins Of Attachment Theory996 Words   |  4 Pagesorigins of Attachment theory can be traced to the influential work of John Bowlby (1958). Bowlby’s work as a psychiatrist in a Child Guidance Clinic in London caused him to consider the significance of the child’s relationship with their mother in terms of their cognitive, emotional and social development. Specifically, it contributed to enthralling his interests surrounding the link between early infant separations with the mother and later maladjustment, leading Bowlby to formulate the Theory of AttachmentRead MoreI Need Therapy For Children And Adolescents Diagnosed With A Mental Illness1670 Words   |  7 Pagesneeded to help, therefore allowing parents to be the primary agent of change before their child’s symptoms become uncontrollable. Using a case example from my current placement and the attachment theory, this paper will demonstrate how certain proactive i nterventions like Filial Therapy can improve parent-child attachment and decrease anxiety among children. Case Example Haley is a Caucasian 16-year old girl who was referred for self-harm and anxiety after being seen in the ER. Haley resides with herRead MoreClient Centered Theory Essay1224 Words   |  5 PagesClient Centered Theory Client centered theory was originated by Carl Rogers and is considered to be a humanistic theory of process or evolution (Coady Lehman, 2008). Rogers developed 19 basic premises of personality in which an individual was held to grow through the processes of a reduction in defensive mechanisms and the self-directed development of internal cognizance (Corsini Wedding, 2008/2011). The processes would occur when the theoretical constructs of congruence, acceptance and empathyRead MoreAttachment Theory Implied That The Quality Of Infancy Attachment Patterns1590 Words   |  7 PagesAttachment theory implied that the quality of infancy attachment patterns is consistent and continue to influence later development in relationship experiences. The first major article of Roisman et al. (2005) supported this statement, by investigating the correlation between participants’ infancy attachment and their behaviour in current romantic relationships. Data was drawn from a longitudinal co hort, where participants’ initial relationships were assessed in the infancy of 12 months by StrangeRead MoreThe Attachment Styles Of Infants1312 Words   |  6 PagesAttachment is the emotional connection we share with those whom we feel closest (Lilinfield, 2012), especially primary caregiver. Infant attachment styles were quantified by The Strange Situation test that has been developed by Mary Ainsworth (Peterson, 2012). There are three styles of attachment which are secure attachment (Type B), insecure avoidant attachment (Type A) and anxious- ambivalent insecure attachment (Type C). Adults with Type B attachment secure relationship was characterised by intimateRead MoreEmotional Connection Between Infants And Their Primary Caregivers1742 Words   |  7 PagesAttachment refers to the emotional connection that matures between infants and their primary caregivers throughout the first year of life. Attachment appears to be a universal feature of development in all cultures . Its importance has led to a continuing debate about the value of attachment in infancy on children’s later development. (Wallace Caulfield, 1998). There are three key theories that have dominated the literature on attachment: Sigmund Freud, Konrad Lorenz and John Bowlby. Bowlby’s theoryRead MoreAn Attachment Theoretical Framework For Personality Disorders1532 Words   |  7 PagesLiterature Review and Analysis In the article titled An Attachment Theoretical Framework for Personality Disorders explores how John Bowlby and Mary Ainsworth’s attachment theory provides a coherent perception of â€Å"intrapsychic and interpersonal† (2013) aspects of personality disorders, such as antisocial personality disorder. Adverse attachment is often at the root of most antisocial personality disorders. This theoretical groundwork pairs breadth and parsimony to the conceptualization of BowlbyRead MoreThe Theories And Principles Of Attachment Theory1621 Words   |  7 PagesExploration of Attachment Theory Fully describe the theory including the main concepts and principles Attachment theory is a concept that explores the importance of attachment in respect to direct development. â€Å"It is a deep and enduring emotional bond that connects one person to another across time and space† (Bowlby, 1969; McLeod, 2009). It is the relationship that develops within the first year of the infant’s life between them and their caregiver. The theory also relates to the quality of the

Feeling Home The Bluest Eye - 1010 Words

This thesis falls in four chapters with an introduction and a conclusion. The first chapter, feeling home: the kitchen as a self- empowering space in The Bluest Eye, explores the kitchen as a mimic of homeland for black Americans. It investigates the role of food as a way to keep the culture alive. Rafa Zafar argues thatâ€Å" remembering, writing about, and passing on recipes keep African American cultural traditions and personal stories alive†(Bower, 6). During the 1950s, after the losses that African Americans experienced in their migration from the South to the North, they lost their connection to their heritage and culture. They look for something to resort to as a cultural signifier. In the beginning they resort to storytelling,†¦show more content†¦This chapter investigates the ways in which food acts as a dual agent as a tool of communication and a source of empowerment for women. It examines the potential for female empowerment and agency through culinary pr actices. Additionally, it addresses the question of how women of the novel use food as a path to power as well as a medium for expressing their feelings. It studies the significance of food and cooking and their direct impact on women s lives. The chapter highlights also how Esquivel uses food to show how the protagonist along with the other women of the novel silently communicate and convey messages through food Chapter three, cooking up roots: Jade Snow Wong s attempt at self definition, focuses on the outcome of the discussion of the first two chapters, the hyphenated identity that formed in the kitchen of immigrants. It investigates the role of food in shaping immigrants new identities. Jade Snow Wong explains in Fifth Chinese Daughter, that her father, as a former immigrant, believes that seeking out and collecting food stories, recipes, promoting cooking at their home and establishing strong ties with their community allow children and community members alike to engage with their history and culture and preserve it for future generations. This chapter attempts to discuss the Chinese American literary discourse for the Chinese American identityShow MoreRelatedAnalysis Of Tony Morrison s The Bluest Eye 1263 Words   |  6 Pages Pecola’s Eyes and Vision Tony Morrison is a famous, exciting, American writer, describes as a major figure of the entire African American nation within the American community. â€Å"The Bluest Eye† published in 1970, is one of the most impressive novels of the author describing the Great American Depression. The contexts and the structure of the story looks as if it was written for children. This realistic story describes the manner of life and reality of the African American, suffering form the pressureRead MoreAnalysis Of Tony Morrison s The Bluest Eye 1314 Words   |  6 PagesvvPecola’s Eyes and Vision Tony Morrison is a famous, exciting, American writer, describes as a major figure of the entire African American nation within the American community. â€Å"The Bluest Eye† published in 1970, is one of the most impressive novels of the author describing the Great American Depression. The contexts and the structure of the story looks as if it was written for children. This realistic story describes the manner of life and reality of the African American, suffering form the pressureRead MoreThe Bluest Eye By Toni Morrison Essay1456 Words   |  6 Pageslove, and support comes to mind. Meanwhile, society tends to forget that initially home is a house: a constructed place of living that has all the materialistic essentials to survive in it; but is not a home because it has no feeling of love, safety or serenity within it. These two words, â€Å"home† and â€Å"house† seem so similar, but are very different in their meanings. In The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison, houses and homes are depicted very neatly and compared with one another, as the residents of thoseRead MoreToni Morrisons Sula - The Judgment of Sula703 Words   |  3 Pagesher book The Bluest Eye. In 1973 she published her second novel Sula, and she has been writing ever since. Sara Blackburn reviewed Sula for the New York Times when it first made its way onto the scene, and while she did offer a nice plot summary, her review seemed to carry a message addressed to Morrison rather than to the reader. nbsp; Blackburn begins her article by discussing Morrisons first book, The Bluest Eye, claiming that because of the womens movement The Bluest Eye attracted moreRead More Morrisons Bluest Eye Essay: Misdirected Anger Depicted1174 Words   |  5 PagesMisdirected Anger Depicted in The Bluest Eye In The Bluest Eye, Toni Morrison shows that anger is healthy and that it is not something to be feared; those who are not able to get angry are the ones who suffer the most.   She criticizes Cholly, Polly, Claudia, Soaphead Church, the Mobile Girls, and Pecola because these blacks in her story wrongly place their anger on themselves, their own race, their family, or even God, instead of being angry at those they should have been angry at: whites.Read MoreThe Bluest Eye By Toni Morrison1598 Words   |  7 Pages in The Bluest Eye, racism has been approached in a very exceptional way. 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I wanted to look like the girls in the movie that always got the boy at the end they were usually white. I was always angry because my skin was darker then most of my family that my skin was closer to white. My sister who I thought was blessed with her light skin called herself white. I didn t understand it at first and just thought

Fashion Industry China Csr Case Free Essays

string(170) " Practices California Transparency in Supply Chains Act Terms of Engagement Supplier Protocol Control Supplier Code of Conduct Impact Effective abolition of child labor\." Fashion Industry China: CSR Case Subject Submission Date Class Team Members CSR cross-analyses on fashion Industry Tuesday 15, 2012 MBA Pudong – Corporate Social Responsibility Christiane Pagsisihan Damien Dandelot Jose Antonio Mallen Tendai Chitapi Vera Boisa Harbhajan Khalsa Executive Summary The research paper trough four main Corporate Social Responsibilities (CSR) issues (Children Labor, Working condition, Environmental impact and Environmental Sustainability) indicates several glaring trends within the fashion industry. First of all, there appears to be an overall evolution in the CSR practice and actives during the last decade in the fashion industry. Moreover, it seems evident that CSR is more and more considered as important issues in the fashion industries whatever the specification and the market are. We will write a custom essay sample on Fashion Industry China: Csr Case or any similar topic only for you Order Now Finally, after having make a close comparison between six fashion companies, it seems that if companies continue to develop its CSR actions in activities such as eco-friendly ingredient sourcing, fair pricing, eco-manufacturing, and efficient non-wasteful distribution, as well as corporate sponsorship, they will result competitive advantage. Indeed, with the implementation of CSR initiatives brands build a positive image and then are more able to counter criticism for other issues that may affect the company. Introduction Over the last decade, corporate social responsibility has moved to the forefront of consumers’ minds and has elicited numerous responses on the part of the fashion industry. It should not come as a surprise given that it encompasses the design, manufacturing, distribution, marketing, retailing, advertising, and promotion of all types of apparel (men’s, women’s, and children’s) from the most rarefied and expensive haute couture (literally, â€Å"high sewing†) and designer fashions to ordinary everyday clothing (Encyclopedia Britannica, 2012). Within the industry there are different kinds of activities, such as model agencies, creative agencies, media specialized in fashion (i. e. Fashion TV) and textiles etc. According to Market Line Report, Global Textiles, Apparel Luxury Goods (2012), the global textiles, apparel and luxury goods market (men, women and children clothing, textiles, footwear and luxury goods) had total revenues of about $3 trillion in 2011, representing a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 3. 7% for the period 2007-2011. The performance of the market is forecast to accelerate, with an anticipated CAGR of 4. 2% for the five-year period 2011-2016, which is expected to drive the market to a value of more $3. trillion by the end of 2016. Put simply, the fashion industry is a huge sector and thus deserves a closer examination as to the human rights and environmental impacts. Due to the fact that the industry encompasses a myriad of companies, we have selected six companies established in China (Table 1 and Exhibits 1 to 6). Indeed, in China, the textile and clothing industry is the largest 1|Page Fashion Industry China: CSR Case – Team 7 MBA Pudong manufacturing ind ustry. There are about 24,000 enterprises that employ 8 million workers. In addition, China is the largest clothing producer in the world, and has the largest production capacity for textile mill products consisting of cotton and silk (Qiu, 2005). Table 1 – General description of the six companies selected (data from 2011) Company Inditex SA HM Gap Inc. Levi’s Hermes LVMH HQ Spain Sweden USA USA France France Market Mid to low income Mid to low income Mid to upper income Mid to upper income Higher income Higher income Total revenue (billion) $ 17. 53 $ 15. 1 $ 14. 55 $ 4. 8 $ 4. 8 $ 30. 08 Net Profit (billion) $ 2. 45 $ 2. 76 $ . 83 $ 0. 14 $ 1. 2 $ 3. 81 Number of Stores 5,527 2,325 3250 470 283 3095 Number of Markets 82 43 44 110 57 60 Number of Employees worldwide 109,512 59,440 132,000 17,000 8370 98,000 CSR issues relevant to the fashion industry Then, before moving on, the major CSR issues in the fashion industry are outlined below (Table 2). Indeed, this table aims to highlight the major issues that fashion industry must consider into practices. These table has been made according some information coming from diverse councils and web site, but with a primarily focus on the Nordic Fashion Association, Code of Conduct and Manual (2012). Table 2 – List and describe the CSR –related issues relevant to the industry CSR issues relevant to the fashion industry Description of the issue Human Rights Exploiting people for profit. This concern is widespread throughout the fashion industry worldwide. Freedom of association and the effective Ensure that workers participating in unions are not subject to discrimination recognition of the right to collective bargaining or punitive disciplinary actions. Forced Labor Trafficking and exploiting human beings for the purpose of monetary gain. Issues Child Labor Discrimination Working Conditions Wages, payroll records and deductions Labor contracts Environment Corruption and Bribery Ethical Animal Ethics Models Employing children under the legal age to work in factories, sweatshops or even in their own homes. Unfair treatment in favor or against a person based on their religious affiliation, skin color, nationality, gender, race, economic class etc. Forced labor. Extended work hours with little or no compensation. Occupational health and safety. Withholding pay and legal documentation. Refusing to negotiate with unions. Abuse of power and authority. Toxic waste. Heavy chemicals and dyes. Abuse of power by officials, corporate or otherwise, for illegitimate gain. Use of real animal fur or exotic animals. Animal abuse and testing. Refraining from the promotion of unattainable body ideals and unhealthy lifestyles. Note that due to the fact that the fashion industry requires extensive manual labor and the use of raw material and chemicals, the two most critical global issues according to the classification to the United Nations Global Compact (UNCG) are Human Rights and the Environment. However, these categories are still very broad; therefore, the analysis will be split into four sub-categories: ? Human Right: Child Labor, Working Conditions, Environmental: Impact and Sustainability. 2|Page Fashion Industry China: CSR Case – Team 7 MBA Pudong The six companies are combined according to the filter: UN: Human Rights – Child Labor Company LVMH Inditex SA Gap Inc. Levi’s H Hermes Main Action Supplier Code of Conduct Staff Spons orship Supplier Protocol Based on Best Practices California Transparency in Supply Chains Act Terms of Engagement Supplier Protocol Control Supplier Code of Conduct Impact Effective abolition of child labor. You read "Fashion Industry China: Csr Case" in category "Essay examples" Provide financing education material. Develop projects for children End forced Child Labor/Human trafficking Sponsoring children to go to school Improvement of child labor conditions. Effective abolition of child labor. Provide financing and education material. Impact Train managers in â€Å"best practices†. Training and improvement of suppliers (safety protocols). 50 CSR specialists – End forced labor. Improve building and fire safety standards. Train suppliers in their own language – they know what to look for during factory audits. Reduction in Chemicals Train managers in â€Å"best practices†. Impact Reduction of CO2 emissions Reduction of CO2 emissions Guidelines for sustainable garment production Reduction of CO2 emissions Direct impact on the environment Control illegal activities of hunting. Genuine / Greenwashing On the way to be Genuine but still Greenwashing. Genuine Greenwashing Genuine Greenwashing On the way to be Genuine but still application of the policy is still Greenwashing. Genuine/ Greenwashing Elimination of forced labor. Freedom of association. Genuine Greenwashing Genuine Genuine Elimination of forced labor. Freedom of association. Genuine/ Greenwashing Genuine Genuine Genuine Genuine Genuine Genuine Company Risk Reputation HIGH Reputation HIGH Reputation HIGH Reputation – HIGH Reputation HIGH Reputation HIGH UN: Human Rights – Work Conditions Company LVMH Inditex SA Gap Inc. Levi’s H Hermes Main Action Human Resources Development Develop science and technology Code of Vendor Conduct Term of Engagement Improve working conditions. Human Resources Development Main Action Environmental Task Force Criteria of eco-efficiency Sustainable Apparel Coalition Forest Products Purchasing Policy Reduction of chemical use. Socially responsible supply channel. Company Risk Quality of product – HIGH Reputation HIGH Reputation HIGH Reputation MEDIUM/ HIGH Reputation HIGH Quality of product – HIGH Company Risk Coherent reputation image – HIGH Reputation HIGH Reputation HIGH Reputation HIGH Reputation HIGH Coherent reputation image – HIGH Company Risk Coherent reputation image – HIGH Reputation Cost – HIGH Reputation – MEDIUM UN: Environment – Impact Company LVMH Inditex SA Gap Inc. Levi’s H Hermes UN: Environment – Sustainability Company LVMH Inditex SA Gap Inc. Main Action Encourage biodiversity Staff Sponsorship Green initiatives. High EPA ranking. Impact Reforestation and social program Product lines that use 100% organic cotton Reduction of water use. Improve operational efficiencies in Chinese fabric mills. Genuine/ Greenwashing Genuine Genuine Genuine 3|Page Fashion Industry China: CSR Case – Team 7 MBA Pudong Levi’s H Hermes Robust vetting system for suppliers Transparent chemical policy Technological Development Ensures suppliers are in compliance with TOE Reduce water and energy in supply chains. Reduce environmental resources Genuine Genuine Genuine Reputation HIGH Reputation HIGH Reputation HIGH Ranking The following graphs illustrate how each company ranks in comparison with one another based on. But, before reading them, it should be taken into consideration that each company has different external environments and stakeholders which directly affect the CSR activities and strategies. Indeed, even though each of these companies is in the fashion industry, each has a distinctive market and set of requirements, such as boutique vs. massive distribution. Therefore, the rankings cannot be interpreted a prime facie. UNGC : Human Right – Children Labor High Impact of the CSR issue UNGC : Environment – Impact High Impact of the CSR issue Low Low Genuine/ Greenwashing High Low Low Genuine/ Greenwashing High UNGC : Human Right – Working Conditions High Impact of the CSR issue UNGC : Environment – Sustainability High Impact of the CSR issue Low Low Genuine/ Greenwashing High Low Low Genuine/ Greenwashing High 4|Page Fashion Industry China: CSR Case – Team 7 MBA Pudong From that it is possible to rank the six companies (Table 3). Indeed, according to the four graphics above, there are evidences that some companies are working better in terms of CSR. For instance, it is possible to point out that the luxury brands are more involved in the CSR than the others. However, that make sense, because the margins are greater; therefore it easier to spend money on responsible business practices, but also because the reputation (quality and image) is a big issues (Bendell Kleanthouse, 2007). In addition, it comes to the mind the fact that the mass-production companies, such as H and INDITEX, have to manage other problems that luxury brands do not have to deal with. However, Levi’s is historically founded on very strong ethical values and this is reflected in the daily practices. Indeed, Levi’s is consistently a leader in CSR and responsible business practices. Thus, as it was said above it is difficult to compare companies which deal everyday with different issues and market and public. Table 3 – Ranking of companies studied by Team 7 Rank 1 2 3 4 5 6 Company Levi’s Hermes LVMH Inditex SA H Gap Inc. Conclusion The research indicates several glaring trends within the fashion industry. First and foremost, there appears to be an overall CSR evolution that started with crisis management, moved into brand insurance and finally ended with the implementation of initiatives that build a positive brand. In many cases, scandals involving child labor, poor working conditions and/or crimes against the environment caused them to develop policies and guidelines that tell employees how to act and make decisions. A prima facie, the companies attempt to institutionalize CSR. In other words, the organization, employees and board of directions will align company goals and business strategies in accordance to higher CSR standards. In order to obtain external recognition for these efforts, many of the companies obtained accreditation with socially responsible authorizes, such as ISO 14001, EPA certification, FTSE and Dow Jones Sustainability Index. The companies put forward the idea that they are socially responsible and tend to publicize high numbers or percentages to tout their accomplishments. Yet, rarely do they provide information of the methodologies or absolute values that would place clearer, understandable quantitative values to the effects of their efforts. As a result, these numbers cannot be taken at face value. Thus, they are making a tremendous effort to be responsible mainly for marketing purposes as opposed to divine intention. Finally, without question, these fashion retailers hold a disproportionate amount of power and influence over the entire industry and therefore are put in a higher level of responsibility 5|Page Fashion Industry China: CSR Case – Team 7 MBA Pudong Exhibit 1 – H Company Christiane R. Pagsisihan H (Hennes ad Mauritz), a Swedish multinational clothes retailer, offers modern basics to high fashion apparel. Its objective is to deliver a never-ending stream of must-have pieces at affordable prices, comparable to other major retailers such as Uniqlo, Forever21, Topshop and Zara. The company works with a multitude of buyers, designers and suppliers to produce collections that are both up-to-date and with quality. Its recent expansion brought about opening 2700 stores worldwide in over 48 markets and employing over 94,000 people from all over the world. Its largest market is Germany, followed by the US, France and the UK. As of 2011, the company reached $15. billion worth of revenue, and 2. 50% revenue growth. (Yahoo Finance, 2012) In terms of H vision, its focus is â€Å"to be run in a way that is economically, socially and environmentally sustainable. By sustainable, we mean that the needs of both present and future generations must be fulfilled. † (H, 2012) Its CSR work is grounded on their desire for continuous improvement. As mentioned in their website, â€Å"We have a responsi bility towards everyone who contributes to our success, including those who are not employees of H. That is why we work closely with our suppliers to develop sustainable social and environmental standards in the factories that manufacture H products. We have to ensure that our employees’ human rights are not violated, and the same applies to employees of our suppliers and other co-operation partners, and to our customers. † (H, 2012) Accordingly, H is also an active member of the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), and is committed to align its strategies with the 10 universally accepted principles that the initiative stands for. Apart from UNGC, H is also a member of the Fair Labor Association (FLA), Business for Social Responsibility (BSR), and Fair Wage Network among many others. (H, 2012) With regard to how it addresses various industry issues, H is proactive in their approach in setting new standards to ensure that it’s aligned with its company’s vision. H came up with a 7 Sustainable Strategy framework, an approach to managing its business. The framework is composed of the following commitments: 1 – Provide fashion for conscious customers – Make products with an added sustainability value. – Choose and reward responsible partners – Work with partners who share our values 3 – Be ethical – Always act with integrity and respect 4 – Be climate smart – Be energy-efficient and inspire others to reduce total CO2 emissions. 5 – Reduce, reuse, and recycle – Aim for zero waste to landfill. 6 – Use natural resources responsi bly – Conserve water, soil, air and species. 7 – Strengthen communities – Contribute to the development of the communities where we operate. *Taken from H website: (http://about. hm. com/content/hm/AboutSection/en/About/Sustainability/HMConscious/Strategy. tml) The framework the company came up with is not uncommon, however, the commitments it chose to value are the fundamental principles that any fashion retail company should consider. Despite H CSR efforts, it still encountered mishaps in the past, publicized by several articles by the media. Its main challenges consist of human rights and environmental issues. The company’s sustainability report mentioned that, â€Å"producing raw materials like cotton requires a lot of water and goes with concerns about chemical use and working conditions. † (H, 2011) 6|Page Fashion Industry China: CSR Case – Team 7 MBA Pudong Back in 2010, it was reported that H knowingly passed of genetically modified (GM) cotton – grown with synthetically agricultural chemicals- as organic cotton. (Vijayaraghavan, 2011) Another challenge that the company is aware of is its fabric processing issues. â€Å"Fabric production can require intensive use of chemicals, again raising concerns for the environment and for the health of the workers. † (H, 2012) In 2011, Greenpeace released a report claiming that clothing from top brands including H were tainted with hazardous chemicals. H has also been attacked for sourcing its production in developing countries with poor labor standards. As mentioned in an article from Triodos, â€Å"Reports are published that include accusations of child labor, unhealthy working environments, and low wages at the factories supplying H. † (Triodos Bank, 2011) In spite these issues, H has been transparent about their sustainability strategy and as mentioned in an article, â€Å"is committed to working with its Chinese suppliers to reduce water, energy, and toxic-chemical use in its supply chains. (Vijayaraghavan, 2011) As highlighted in H Sustainability strategy, it continues to implement actions that help diminish the challenges that they’re currently facing. Listed below are some of the action plans the company implemented: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. Make 100% of paper carrier bags from FSC Certified Paper. Reduce environmental impacts in cotton cultivation by using more sustainable cotton Help to lead the indus try to zero discharge of hazardous chemicals Continue constantly to review and update chemical restrictions. Ban Fluorocarbons, Toluene from production Replace Solvent- Based Polyurethane with water based alternative. Promote the development of Harmonized Corporate water accounting and reporting Standards Promote reduced water consumption in garment production Monitor waste water quality at supplier factories Develop and implement environmental guidelines for the purchase of non-commercial goods. *Taken from H Sustainability Report – (H, 2011) Ultimately, H CSR efforts seem genuine; however, bad PR attacks its credibility. Although H had a couple of mishaps, staying true to their commitments, being conscious of where it sources its materials, and monitoring their production process would make a big difference. When faced with CSR challenges, the company should always go back to its extensive sustainability strategy framework, and ensure that whatever it does as a company, that it should always stick to its commitments and vision. 7|Page Fashion Industry China: CSR Case – Team 7 MBA Pudong Exhibit 2 – LVMH: About Corporate Social Responsibility in China Introduction Damien Dandelot Recent financial crisis and economic troubles do not affect sales of luxury brands. According to the Luxury Goods Worldwide Market Study (Bain Company’s, 2012), luxury spending rose 8% to $US274 billion in 2011, with growth in the US, Europe and China (Holmes 2011). However, luxury brands, such as LVMH, have recently been a target for public criticism (Kapferer, 2012). Indeed, luxury goods are ‘criticized for being extravagant, overpriced, exploiting third world suppliers, and wasteful when many people are struggling financially’ (Waller Hingorani, 2011, p. 1). Moreover, recently luxury sector has been in the middle of a under enormous scrutiny: reports have deeply criticized this industry for lagging behind (Bendell Kleanthouse, 2007). Indeed, just by looking on the web, it easy to find idea such as: ‘sustainable and luxury are incompatible terms’. Thus, this exhibit will focus on the issues related to luxury brands and social responsibility, with a particular focus on LVMH (Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy) -the world’s largest luxury goods conglomerate- in China and its practices in domain of Human Right (Children Labor and Safe working conditions) and Environment (Impact and Sustainability). China is for LVMH a target! According to Ma (2010), the number of Chinese’s luxury customers will rise to 250 million around 2015. In addition, between others, China is in the middle of the criticism about luxury development. Indeed, China constitutes a menace for the planet; critics point out the behavior of the richest whose consumption per capita is disproportionate (Kapferer, 2012). The company This study will examine the CSR activities run by LVMH, via, between other things, the analysis of its mid-2012 Financial Report and 2011 Annual Report. But first of all, let point out some information (Table 1). Table 1 – An overview of LVMH (Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton Company) Industry Founded Headquarters Products Brands Luxury goods, retail 1987 Paris, France Clothing, cosmetics, fashion accessories, jewelry, perfumes, spirits, watches and wines Wines and Spirits: The Glenmorangie Company Limited, Hennessy, Moet Hennessy UK, Moet Hennessy Asia Pacific, Moet Hennessy Diageo France, Veuve Clicquot, Moet Chandon. Fashion and Leather Goods: Louis Vuitton, Fendi, Celine, Givenchy, Kenzo, Loewe. Perfumes and Cosmetics: LVMH Fragrance Brands, Guerlain, Perfumes Christian Dior. Watches and Jewellery: Chaumet, De Beers, Hublot, Tag Heuer. Selective Distribution: Le Bon Marche, Sephora, DFS. â‚ ¬23. 659 billion +16% from 2010 (29% of the revenue is from Asia, without Japan) â‚ ¬3. 465 billion Nearly 98,000 employees worldwide (about 64 % outside France) 3095 stores in total (641 in Asia, without Japan) in in over 60 countries Revenue 2011 Net Profit 2011 Employees Geography Company’s vision LVMH is quite clear on what is its risk according to its vision and then its value, goal or mission: ‘Like any human activity, the businesses of the LVMH Group have an impact on the environment. [†¦] The challenges faced by each business have been clearly identified’ (LVMH, 2011 p. 125). Indeed, in LVMH’s Annual Report (op. cit. ) we can find commitments such as: – Corporate mission: ‘A global vision dedicated to serving the needs of every customer. The successful marriage of cultures grounded in tradition and elegance with the most advanced marketing, industrial’ (op. cit, p. ). – Managing risk and non-compliance: ‘Some Maisons are bringing their sites into regulatory compliance, particularly those classified for environmental protection [†¦] LVMH requires its partners to subscribe to its Supplier Code of Conduct by virtue of which it reserves the right to conduct compliance audits at any time and without notice’ (op. cit, p. 125). – Organization and management techniques: ‘The main goal of the internal organization is to harness the commitment of all Group personnel and train them by offering resources best suited to their particular situation’ (op. it, p. 125). – Economic impact: ‘Since 2010 [LVMH] has lent its support to the ‘Conservation Cotton Initiative’ whose goal is to promote the cultivation of organic cotton in Africa and thus benefit the local clothing industry’ (op. cit, p. 129). – Environment: ‘46% of Group sites (excluding stores) were ISO 14001-certified and 27% of industrial, logistical or administrative sites (excluding stores) had been audited. [†¦] Particular focus was placed on environmental risk management. †¦] building construction, renovation and operation, the Maisons implement a number of different standards and certifications, such as HQE, BBC, BREEAM and LEED. [†¦] Following the comple tion of the Carbon Footprints and energy audits, the Maisons have implemented a number of initiatives’ (op. cit, p. 126-127). – A commitment to citizenship: ‘The first component of the LVMH corporate sponsorship program focuses on preserving artistic heritage. †¦] Children in elementary and high schools as well as art students benefit from educational programs designed and initiated by the Group to give them greater access to the best of culture, particularly in the areas of music and the visual arts [†¦]’ (op. cit. , p. 133). A prima facie, LVMH try to let converged its entire conglomerate together, by encourage its brands to follow the corporate’s goal and vision. Indeed, by promoting some values such as ecology, education, good practice labor, Human Right, medicine, etc. 8|Page Fashion Industry China: CSR Case – Team 7 MBA Pudong round the world, and by signing some certification and others accreditations, such as the United Nati ons Global Compact (LVMH, 2006), LVMH impose at its brands some behaviors and conducts rules. LVMH a discrete proactive company Although there was a lot of descriptive information on the web and in different articles and in LVMH Annual Report (2011), there were very few specifics in terms of the financial figures pertaining to the implementation of CSR various initiatives. Indeed, for China only seven intra-/ extra-organizational activities have been found on Environmental and Human Right (Table 2). Table 2 – LVMH CSR Sustainable Development UNGC Children Labor and Safe working conditions Impact and Sustainability Children Labor and Safe working conditions Children Labor and Safe working conditions Impact and Sustainability Children Labor Sustainability Children Labor and Safe working conditions Medicine Activity Human Resources Staff Sponsorship Corporate inhouse initiative Encourage biodiversity Suppliers Code of Conduct Research Activity To improve the performance and the ‘Sustainable development’ consciousness of their leaders, LVMH organized 16 forums, for 400 managers representing more than 30 brands and 30 countries. The subject of these forums covers all CSR spectrums. LVMH has been sponsoring a group of middle school students from Sichuan since the 2008 earthquake through academic support provided by the employees and by financing educational materials, in order to fight against Children labor. LVMH discuss with its brands about matters concerning human rights, nondiscrimination and equality with their employees by means of posters, Intranet sites, inhouse media and in new employee guide booklets. LVMH is a partner in the Tianzi natural reserve (China) under a 10-year sponsorship agreement comprising eforestation, orchid planting and a social program. LVMH defends the principles of the Global Compact: elimination of professional discrimination; freedom of association and effective recognition of the right to collective bargaining; elimination of any form of forced labor; effective abolition of child labor. Pasteur Institute in China Thus, according to the table above, there are evidences of CSR framework on the top. For instance, the motto of the top management includes some CSR idea: renew, recycle, reduce, and review. And like many others, LVMH is auditing regularly in its carbon imprint (since 2004). In fact, according to Kapferer (2012) all luxury groups have already imply some structure (Environmental Task Forces, Charters, etc. ) that make CSR an inherent criterion in all top decisions. However, still according to Kapferer (2012), even if CSR is already, for all luxury groups (LVMH, PPR, etc. ), on the top of their agenda (since 2001), they have not publicized it: ‘Luxury has moved forward but does not talk much about it’ (op. cit. , n. d. ). LVMH between genuine and ‘green washing’ policy According to Bendell Kleanthous (2007) when we measure company’s performance in social issues, the brands did not fare well. To link that to LVMH, Bendell Kleanthouse (op. cit. ) measured 10 luxury brands on their Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) performance. The results are not very convincing. Indeed, by giving a score out of 100, and graded from A (the best) to F (the worst), out of the 10 companies, no one were graded more than a C+: L’Oreal topping the ranking, followed by Hermes and LVMH (followed by the same grade, but not the same score). In terms of practical issues there is an understandable paradox. Indeed, a 100% move to ethical trade (Children Labor and Safe working conditions and green concerns (Impact and Sustainability) today in the luxury sector would hurt the quality of their products (Bendell Kleanthouse, 2007). However, all luxury groups have adopted some high CSR goal of becoming sustainable luxury models (op. cit. ). In this sense, LVMH policy does not go in the direction of ‘green washing’, but rather of a genuine incorporation of the CSR concerns into the whole value chain (sourcing, creating, manufacturing, logistics, istribution, marketing, servicing, waste and recycling). Nonetheless, even its effort and its strategy of integrate CSR on the top; LVMH is still between two lines; indeed, because the company must provide a self-expression which reflects class, status, and quality, the company cannot turn in green or ethic concerns tomorrow, but must to be ready to take the turn when this one will appear. Conclusion and Recommendations Because it seems clear that as luxury brands LVMH promotes itself to the worldwide audience, LVMH is increasing the extent to which CSR and sustainability issues feature in its business practices. Then by being more proactive in their civic responsibilities and keeping within government regulations in its business operation, LVMH can build a reputation as a good corporate citizen. If LVMH can continue to develop its actions in activities such as eco-friendly ingredient sourcing, fair pricing, eco-manufacturing, and efficient non-wasteful distribution, as well as corporate sponsorship, the company will finally has a competitive advantage. Indeed, some CSR actions deeply thoughtful can, on one hand, help to promote a specific image that management would like to portray to its various stakeholders, and on the other hand, can also counter criticism for other issues that may affect the company. Thus, if LVMH will bear upon its providers and distributors to accelerate behavioral changes and align faster with CSR standards, it will play a leading role in the redefinition of the ‘modern hero’ (Kapferer, 2012). Indeed, the rich of tomorrow by its conspicuous choice of luxury brands will demonstrate not only their taste and wealth but their sense of discernment and altruism. In other words, because luxury brands can lead the way by redefining the notion of quality and the luxury dream, more than individual, LVMH can differentiate itself from its competitors, but moreover, be sustainable in social, economic and ecological in term. 9|Page Fashion Industry China: CSR Case – Team 7 MBA Pudong Exhibit 3 – Inditex Company Jose Antonio Mallen Inditex is the largest fashion retailer in Spain and one of the world’s largest fashion retailers. Over 100 textile design, manufacturing and distribution companies form the group. The products are shown in eight different concept stores (Zara, Pull, Massimo Dutti, Bershka, Stradivarius, Oysho, Zara Home and Uterque). Inditex has opened until this moment 5. 963 stores in 85 different markets. FISCAL YEAR Net Sale (million of euros) Net Profit (million of euros) N? of stores N? of markets Number of employees 2011 13,793 1,932 5,527 82 109,512 2010 12,527 1,732 5,044 77 100,138 11/10 10% 12% 483 5 9. 4% The Inditex financial year is from 1st February to 31st January of the following year Source: Inditex annual report 2011 Inditex was the first Spanish company to sign on the United Nations Global Compact in 2001, and since 2010 is a member of the UN Global Compact Advisory Group on Supply Chain Sustainability. Besides sign on the United Nations Global Compact, Inditex works with two other institutions in order to develop its corporate social responsibility: The Ethical Trading Initiative (ETI) and The International Textile Garments Leather Workers Federation (INDITEX, 2012). Inditex is listed as well in the FTSE ranking the second within the retail supersector leaders (FTSE, 2012) and is included in the Dow Jones sustainability Index since 2002. As mention in its press dossier â€Å"Inditex views social and environmental variables as a strategic vector for its management system. Sustainable growth, which customers and society in general increasingly demand, is a value we at the company share and apply to our supplier relationships†. The CSR strategy is apply and integrated in the business through the Internal Code of Conduct and the Code of Conduct for External Manufacturers and Suppliers, in the social area, and through the Environmental Strategic Plan in the environmental area. The open and honest relationship that Inditex maintain with its stakeholders is based in transparency management and its efforts in this area have received international recognition. (INDITEX, 2012) Labor and Human Rights (100% in Communication on Progress) Through the Code of Conduct, which is non-negotiable for all Inditex suppliers and manufacturers, is how the company guarantee acceptable working conditions for each one of the employees of Inditex manufacturers and suppliers. The company is visionary in this aspect and develops new programs in Brazil, India, Cambodia or Turkey, even when India only represents the 5% of its production. Child Labour: Inditex has a specific protocol for the prevention of child labour in its supply chain. This protocol is based on the best practices of the industry, but Inditex goes more deeply into other aspects that let it for example develop de Vidya project for the Indian children. Safety Conditions: In collaboration with scientific and technological institutions and companies, it has started up a programme of training support for its suppliers on specific and relevant aspects of the Inditex health and safety 10 | P a g e Fashion Industry China: CSR Case – Team 7 MBA Pudong protocols. It works directly with the suppliers to avoid the use of risky methods in the clothes manufacturing and providing them alternative methods. (INDITEX, 2012) Environment (94% in Communication on Progress) Inditex is always aware of the possible impact of its activities (design, manufacturing, distribution, retail) on biodiversity and the environment, encouraging compliance with environmental regulations and looking for increase efficiency in resources consumption and reduction of environmental impact. Inditex implements these issues in the form of an environmental management system. The company is totally proactive in this aspect, leading the industry and signing on different organizations and projects that support environmental issues. Proof of this, is that in 2011 Inditex supports two of the international organizations that are most representative in boosting policies of environmental and natural resource management: Better Cotton Initiative and The CEO Water Mandate (included in the global compact initiative) Impact: The major impact that Inditex create in the environment is through its activities of distribution and retail. They addressed this topics through concrete actions like open all its new stores with a criteria of eco-efficiency (483 stores with this concepts in 2011) or setting the objective of reduce the emissions from logistical activity by 20% by 2020. Usually, almost all the CSR actions have an immediate or future economic benefit for the company. In this particular case, although looks like a genuine action, the opening of new eco-efficiency stores involves a decrease in the costs of power and water in these stores. For this reason is difficult to know the final reasons (CSR or profit) of the company. Sustainability: The natural resources and water spend to manufacture Inditex’s products is one of its main concerns. Several chains of the group have developed specific 100% organic cotton collections. In the same direction, Inditex is using tencel, a fibre which is manufactured from eucalyptus wood and which is totally biodegradable. What the company communicates through different sources (annual report, press release, etc. ) about its CSR efforts in sustainability is quite close respect to what external sources show. I have not found any issue related with a CSR wrong management. Moreover, the company is usually listed in the top of sustainability rankings. In my opinion their efforts in CSR are genuine, because not only was one of the first Spanish companies adopting social and environmental responsibility into their strategy but also because as they say in their annual report: â€Å"Inditex maintains a continuous dialogue with its stakeholders in order to identify the issues that most interest or concern them† (INDITEX, 2012). It is difficult to improve the company’s CSR performance. They were developing a CSR strategy for a long time; they have tools and resources to manage the different CSR issues that affect them, in a positive or negative way, and a very proactive way approaching CSR. These are the main reasons because I think that Inditex is a leader and should be an example to others companies within the industry. Probably this could be the next step in its CSR strategy, showing to their competitors the best way to approach CSR strategy in their companies. 11 | P a g e How to cite Fashion Industry China: Csr Case, Essay examples

HRM Assignment free essay sample

In organization what are challenges for HRM department? Etc Introduction:- Now a day we known world is changing very fast. Every organization going international level, we see the organization have braches in different country. However, today the world become small like village amp; is changing day by day more rapidly because of globalization. Looking this changing around world then we have to prepare HRM for our organization because this changing of world affect our work. This means considerate the allegation of globalization, global economy, competition, technological dvancement, knowledge based economy, more expectation from employee, workforce diversity and etc Let’s see some of them how this changing effect HRM goals, objectives amp; practice. Globalization:- Fast changing of world amp; its environment, the organization members face the globalization of business. Now day’s organization is no longer controlled by nationwide boundaries. Example: BMW, this company ow ned from Germany but this company manufacture its Cars in South Carolina. Same McDonald’s have braches in different country around the world; they sale â€Å"Hamburgers† in china. American company Exxon is collecting it sale revenue more than â€Å"three-fourths† outside of USA. This example shows that the world becomes very small like â€Å"global village†, manufacturing and producing goods amp; service around the world. It’s effective in this global market, so organization members need to familiarize with country cultures, its system, and use â€Å"technique different from own†. In today world famous organization of America, like Coca- Cola, Wal-Mart, AFLAC this organization obtain major part of their annual revenues from overseas process. The increase of worldwide and conglomerate firm places fresh wants on HR managers. For occasion, HR must make sure that they have right employees with good skills, knowledge, and they have culture compliance to handle international work. Every country has their own rules, regulation and has different values, customs, political, laws and etc. HR mangers have to understand the societal issues (like e. g. status) that can be effect the process of organization in some country. Every country always has different rule amp; regulation in compare to other country. In America, laws protector against company taking action against workers exclusively on the necessary of a workers age. And not all country has same laws. HRM also need to develop method which help multicultural people work individuals on one platform. In organization more common, employee clash is possibly increased in â€Å"background, language, custom, or age difference†. HRM need to make groups and find to build proper teams amp; tried to reduce clash. Technology:- Because of technology the world become very small and we see there are lot of changes around us due to technology, before 25 years ago we don’t find computer, net, mobile, fax amp; Xerox machine, and many advance machinery amp; devices. Now a day we using in our daily life, without this think we can’t do our daily activities. Day today new technology coming in market we see first computer after that laptop now a day we see note book and I pad. â€Å"The silicon chip and other advances in technology have permanently altered world economics and, as well show momentarily, the way people work. † From advance technology we can share data, put data, through device we can communicate with each other and change information, share it amp; stored it. Let’s, we what information about our sales department and we want known what current situation. Before 25 to 30 years ago, first we need to submit our proposal to sale department, after couple of week we get answer of our proposal. Today we can easily get information and we can easily assess information from computer. Similarly we can easily assess our Account system also. Example:- In America 1970, many reputed organization like General Electric, Citigroup Global Technologies, Wal-Mart amp; 3M. This company are using automatic system for their offices, industrialized automatics system, computer- devise software, microprocessors and better technology in their organization. Because of technology, these organizations make great services amp; products and maintain competitive advantage. Technology process considered to make work more efficient, through any devices, machinery, and tools. And technology improvement provides best result and best output amp; information. Technology has optimistic effect also on internal process of organization. However, it also changed the way human resource manger work. The work and give support in what they contain turn into extra help communication centers. They circulate the information very quickly through computer, telephone, fax machines, printer and other advance devices. And they work anyplace through the computer, laptop, high-speed net at any time. The effect of technology identify, then mangers work better and with good plan of HRP, make better decisions amp; faster, more visibly identify work, amp; make stronger communications channel, with both view employees amp; external society. Example: Recruiting is most critical part, of broadcasting information to individuals. Newspaper adverts, from someone mouth, and posting jobs online. On company website or many specific jobsite on online, e. g. monster. com, jobs. com and etc. his online is big platform for HR manger to find out skills candidates. Or asked to candidates for paper print of CV and some company asking to submit online CV, from here manger can scanned quickly and significance to the job in analysis. Workforce Diversity:- Now a day, organization becomes extra diverse, company now days adapting their HR practice to reproduce those changes. In the world standard organizations today they ha ve workforce diversity programs, such as Back of America. They provide diversity training program, promote, â€Å"encourage vendor diversity† to their workers. In some organization, in reality ways they do cultural audits to make sure that diversity is enveloping in the organization. Such as like Motorola, Mars, Coca-cola. Example: â€Å"Distinctive voices working together within a common culture† Mars described how they are doing business. They believe that the company success is improved by having a workforce, completed of connections from lots of different backgrounds and they have society and customer in different types of individuals. And they have value talents to contributions of their diverse workforce in reaching towards future and they playing big role of leadership. Source: (www. mars. com/other_policies/diversity. as) Workforce diversity wants employers to be more aware to the differences that every group convey to the work background. Employers have to be familiar with amp; transact among different values, wants, comfort, and anticipation of workers. They have to stay away from any exercise or act that can be taking as being sexist, racist, or offensive to any exacting group amp; also not unlawfully distinguish against workers. Employers also find different ways to support workers in managing work/life issues. Changing nature of HRM: Trends like workforce, competitive amp; demographic these types of force businesses to change how they do things. As an example when there is more competition in market that mean more pressure for lower prices, amp; â€Å"make employees more productive†. That’s why most company are cutting staff, out sourcing duties amp; setup fresh productivity- getting better technologies. And same as part of these hard work, also they expect their â€Å"HR managers† to â€Å"add value†, in different words to make better organizational presentation in measurable conduct. (Fundamental of HRM) HRM role in managing workforce:- In 1960, there are personnel departments in many organizations they look about as â€Å"health amp; happiness† group. This department do main work like planning company â€Å"picnics†, scheduling vacation trip for organization, register workers for heath-cares reporting, and preparation for retirement get-together. This are changed earlier than past three decades. According to Federal amp; state laws:- Employers have more new requirements relating to appoint and employment exercise. Occupations are also changed. Employers are become more practical amp; want workers with great knowledge amp; great skills. In ancient time the workers work on specific sectors, and working same job duties among others who do comparable jobs. Now days workers are just as similar, but they are working on project teams and with different people with different department in organization. Some of them do their work at home and hardly ever see any of their collaborators. And now days we see in the world the global competition has increased the importance of make better workforce and making better productivity around globally for most excellent expert workers. As a result we need HRM in different expert in sociology, psychology, work design, regulation and in organization. Today many organizations identify the significance of â€Å"people† gathering their target. So, HRM should balance 2 main key tasks; give right strategic direction to organization and demonstrating amp; promoting for organizations employees. In today world organization HRM role is major amp; important. So HRM should need to think forward. HRM not only need to mange management but also give right strategic direction to management â€Å"people† for achieving the goal and objective of organization. Whatever strategic direction gives in organization is related to business strategy always. Its show that working with line management is illuminate organization structure, traditions, amp; system presentation, and show what are changes amp; development is necessary. HRM should hand out to organization through formative least possible price strategies to its HRM exercises. The organization has many parts, from many parts Human resources management is one part of organization. HRM deals with â€Å"people† in organization. There is one or two different ways to view HRM, 1st is HRM hold up or employees function in organization. Its role to give direction to employees and those who are in production department develop product and service for organization. 2nd in every organization HRM is function of all mangers occupation. The manger work or not in HRM department the truth is that all mangers mange and handle employees in organization. Around the world every organization has people, and they are managing amp; handling â€Å"people†. For mange people they go through from developing their skills amp; knowledge, motivating at good standard amp; perfect result, and make sure that they are going right direction according to organization goals and objectives. Recruiting: The good successful employment setting up is planned to classify company HR requirements. These types of requirements called as a company would like to gather them. On next level of recruitment, the company assuming and demanding for convinced expertise, understanding and capability is better from the present supply is recruiting. The company have to obtain the people required to make sure the continual action of the business. Recruiting is the method to find out possible applicant for genuine organizational position. An effective recruiting method needs a major â€Å"pool† of applicants to decide from and the extra variety inside that group the improved. Getting an acceptable â€Å"pool† of applicants, though, might not be simple, particularly in a stretched employment marketplace. The main amp; primary aim of recruiting is exchange a few words the situations in such a technique that employment hunter reply. Because, extra request get, the recruiters get chance to find out good skill amp; knowledgeable person who is most excellent suitable for the position requirements. A high-quality recruiting method must pull the skilled and dispirit the unskilled. Gathering this double aim will reduce the price of processing unskilled applicants. There are some factors that can affect recruiting efforts; Entire world all organization small or big, first time or another time they always engage amp; involved with recruiting actions. Some organization does more recruiting than others; they have big size requiting factor, an organization with one lacks employees should recruit constantly. So, some organization such fast food, small services, organization amp; firms are paying lower salaries. Some others also have power to do amount of recruiting. The local community have power to make decision on employment how many recruiting takes position in organization. The earlier period of recruiting automatically show in company past capability to situate amp; continue those people who achieve well. And wages amp; package benefits and operational condition these things also have power income amp; as a result, the requirement for future recruiting. Some company not doing well in market but they what little recruit. On the other side we see the company doing well, making good profit amp; expending their business; some example of rising company FedEx and Home Depot. In these companies always recruitment is going on and this company have most important HR activities. Recruitment efforts are big challenge for this well doing company also. Perfect amp; skills employees are flattering harder to position. â€Å"Unemployment in new millennium, although fluctuating, still relatively low. † (Page: 147, Fundamental of HRM) that’s why HRM needs to develop new strategies to position amp; the skills what company wants to achieve their goals amp; objectives. In recruitment there are two parts which can help organization to recruit amp; develop their employees and through employees they can achieve goals of business. The two parts, first is internal search and second is External search. Selection: After recruiting, Selection most important activities, its start from initial screening interview amp; finishing with final employment result. In selection there are eight stages; initial screening interview, finishing application structure, employment exams, comprehensive interview, locale investigation, provisional carer offer, medical and physical tests and permanent work offer. When employees pass all the stages of selection, he or she get job in organization. There are lots of benefits for organization doing selection process on their employees, they get perfect amp; good skill employees and selected employees are capable to achieve goals amp; objective of organization in future. This selection process is foundation stage for organization, the foundation is perfect then outcomes are better and long term. Example: McDonalds fast moving organization, they are selecting many employees in their organization, first they recruit nline and then call employees for interview. In interview they go through selection process and chose key skills employees which helpful for their organization outcomes and goals amp; objective. Training amp; Development: After selection process, training and development of employees are key role of HRM. Through training and development employees know where, what, how amp; etc do work, what organization wants from employees. In trainin g organization show employees what are duties, how to work and training also involve changing skills, knowledge, attitudes of employees. In development organization develops employee’s skills, knowledge, education and etc. HRM mangers decide what training amp; development needs to employees. Example: if any swimmer wants to take part in Olympic 2012, the swimmer need lots of training and develops speed, taking knowledge from coach or senior swimmer; for achieve goal to come first in race. Same, employees need training and development to achieve organization goals and objective. In U. S. A many standard companies spend billions of money on employees training and development. When organization gives perfect training and develops skills amp; knowledge to their employees, organization get lots of benefits and better outcomes according goals amp; objectives of organization. Performance management: Performance management process involve number of activities, in simply they review what employees has done. This process should perform many purposes, and additionally they constrained on problems in how they can manage. Performance judgment should communicate to employees how well they have performed on recognized goals and objectives. And these goals amp; performance determine mutually understanding between the supervisor amp; employee. Without perfect feedback to employee’s efforts amp; its result on performance; we are declining employee’s motivation, this is big risking. The performance valuation process negligent, if process didn’t worry owns self with legal facets to employee performance. Example; supervisor have planed to terminate employee, then supervisor refer to performance subject and reason for terminate a review of employee current performance evaluation shows that performance was estimate the satisfactory or the precedent 2 review times. Thus, unless this employees performance considerably decline, on supervisor’s decision personal records don’t support. This analysis checks by HRM and see the employee reasonably treated and the organization is secure amp; protected. Employee Relation amp; Reward System: Employer amp; its employees good relationship is most importa nt factor for achieve organization goals and objective for success. Employers should to treat their employees with good respect, motivated them and etc to achieve goals amp; success for organization. Some organization does not focus on employee relation so they lose market and productivity. (M. Nandhini, M. Usha amp; Dr. P. Palanivelu) and most of standard organization like McDonald’s, Tesco, Star Bucks, amp; most of American companies and European companies they spent lots of money on employees through reward system for achieve organization goal and objective. Money amp; reward the organization spent on their employees is not expenditure, it is investment. In future through this investment organization gets better outcomes. Example; According to CEO of Starbucks the coffee industry, they give better reward, salary package amp; maintained good relationship with their employees; So the company continue growing. Conclusion: This assignment concludes that HRM department is base for organization people. HRM is processers where people are manage, develop skills amp; knowledge, according to organization goals, objectives. As we learn in this assignment, it’s also motivated, makes good relationship; amp; for better out come organization invest on employees through better pay amp; rewards system also. Recommendation: According to me HRM sector is basic think for organization, if organization need better outcomes and achieve goals, objective of organization. So they should adopt HRM for their organization. When they adopt HRM department to maintain atmosphere amp; environment with better system and they achieve future better outcomes. Organizations are safe from internal amp; external effects when organization have HRM department, as example they safe from employees issues. References: Links; Employee Relationship derived from, http://www. fibre2fashion. om/industry-article/34/3346/employer-employee-relationship-with-reference-to-textile-industries-in-coimbatore-an-analysis1. asp, Assessed on 12 August 2011 Example of workforce diversification available at www. mars. com/other_policies/diversity. as, Assessed on 26 July 2011. Books; Derek Torrington, Laura Hall, Steven Taylor. 1st ed (2009), Fundamental of HRM: Managing people at Work Briscoe D and Schuller R (2004) International Human Resource Management, 2nd ed. , London: Routledge Sparrow P et alia, (2004), Globalising Human Resource Management. London: Routledge Mullins L J (1999) Management and Organisational Behaviour, London: FT/Prentice Hall Torrington D, Hall L amp; Taylor S (1998), Human Resource Management, 5th ed. Harlow: FT/ Prentice Hall Maund L (2001) An Introduction to Human Resource Management: Theory and Practice, New York: Palgrave Greer C R (2001) Strategic Human Resource Management: A General Managerial Perspective, N. J. : FT Prentice Hall Armstrong M (2007) A Handbook for Employee Reward Management and Practice, 2nd ed. , London: Kogan Page Armstrong M (2009) Armstrong’s Handbook of Human Resource Management Practice

The Little Essay That Could- Open book vs. Closed book free essay sample

Eugene Nathaniel Butler once stated, â€Å"Some people cheat their way through life. They cheat on tests in school. Cheat on girlfriends/boyfriends then graduate to cheating on wives/husbands. They cheat on taxes and many times shortchange their own kids. Life becomes one big game, but once YOU realized the game is rigged and let go, they lose†¦game over.† For centuries, cheating has always been a major concern for institutions of higher learning. Institutions fear cheating, because of the reputation dishonest students will establish for that particular institution. Suspected students will have to face numerous penalties; in most cases, expulsion from the institution. Predominantly, cheating ruins the value and individual integrity of the student, and may cause them to become apathetic in future activities. Therefore, it is important to ensure the soundness the essay, exam, and any other academic related projects so as to avoid students cheating. Undoubtedly, students are increasingly tempted to cheat, because they feel that they have the need to cheat. Open-book examination eliminates such need. The ways that students cheat, such as preparing cheat sheets or glancing at the responses of other classmates, imply that students worry about forgetting, or even forget the contents they are required to memorize. Open-book examination does not require students to remember the book contents as they are allowed to bring and use their textbooks. With these references, students certainly will not forget and hence, will not cheat. Moreover, according to the research, students would have the tendency to cheat if the exam is difficult (Batool, Saeeda, Anam Abbas, and Zahra Naeemi, 2011). Namely, the chances of cheating will be less likely to happen if the students do not perceive the exam to be strenuous. Another research further concludes that students perceive open-book examinations to be  easier, in the sense that they predicted they will prepare less than closed-book examination (Gardner). Likewise, it is less likely for students to cheat in an open-book examination as they feel such exam methods will; be easier, but will hinder the students’ study, since the students will rely only on their notes and text book, they may not feel the need to study. With this purpose in mind, open-book examinations can eliminate a students’ need to cheat. Therefore, it should be a better replacement for the traditional closed-book exemption. Likewise, an open-book examination also reduces the possible ways of cheating. One of the most common ways for cheating is to prepare various notes to cheat. Some students may resort to writing on their tables or bodies, and others may conceal cheat-sheets for reference. However, because of the nature of open-book examination, this form of cheating will undoubtedly not be valid, since students are allowed to â€Å"cheat† by referring to references or notes. Even though the students somehow manage to successfully know the question before the exam, all they can get is merely more time to prepare. Compared to the close-book exam in which students may get full marks in such way, cheating in an open-book exam is far less worthy. Another type of cheating will be glancing at the answers of other classmates or discussing with others, which will not be very practicable in an open-book examination. With this in mind, open-book examinations should be considered in the style of essays or specified short responses, which would make cheating a difficult task to find the answers they want in the works of others, or draw a satisfying conclusion for the answers in a discussion. Given the time constraints and teachers’ watchful supervision, such ways of cheating become even more risky and not practicable. Certainly, open-book examination may not be able to fully eliminate extreme ways of cheating, but will prevent certain students’ from attempting to cheat. Yet, possible ways for cheating are far less than other exam methods, including the traditional close-book examinations practiced today. On the other hand, a closed-book examination does not diminish such instances of cheating. There are certainly ways that proctors attempt to eliminate cheating. For instance, proctors may distance the seats for students or arrange the questions in different order for different exam paper, or print exams in randomized colored papers, so that students will not be able to communicate with others or easily glance at responses. Proctors will also walk around to prevent and detect a student’s cheating by referring to cheat sheets. However, closed-book examination itself is a temptation to cheat. The many existent strategies used in closed-book examinations to prevent cheating only scratch the surface instead of coping with the main problem, which would be the reason or temptation that students cheat. As students become more familiar with these forms of surveillance, they would be able to develop more sophisticated forms of cheating. In fact, students use today’s technological advances such as mobile devices with internet access, or earphones to cheat in closed-book examinations (Coughlan, 2010). In other words, traditional ways that are often used in closed-book examinations to eliminate cheating are not effective in its entirety. Instead, it only forces new forms of cheating to emerge. On the contrary, some people may argue that even though an open-book examination may eliminate cheating, it cannot replace the close-book examination because it does not help the students learn as much as the close-book examination. Students will become apathetic since they feel that they can prepare less for the open-book examinations. It is also likely that students will forget about what they have studied soon after the exam since they do not have to memorize the contents. Thus, it is not wise to replace the close-book examination by the open-book examination. While this may be true, it is reasonable to have these concerns because a generalized examination system is not only about how effectively it can eliminate cheating, but of a student’s overall retention and growth from instructed materials. Yet, results of the research conducted by the Dominican University of California refute such arguments, in a Comparison of the Effects of Exam Types on Performance, Retention, and Anxiety. The research tested the effectiveness of open-book exams, closed-book exams, and cheat-sheet exams by comparing the performance and level of anxiety of the students, and their memorization of the materials (Gardner). Generally, the students performed the best in the open-book exam. For time spent on revising, despite student’s prediction before the exam that they would prepare less for the open-book exam, there were reportedly only small differences between other exam methods. For relief anxiety or stress, students conceded that the least level of anxiety for open-book exam. The Students’ performances were negatively related with anxiety levels measured  before the exam. Students were also asked about the memorization of the materials after two weeks of the initial test. The results showed that there were no significant differences between these three types of exam methods. These studies furthermore show that open-book examination will not cause the students to be apathetic, nor forgetful. In fact, it makes students perform better by lowering their anxiety levels. In conclusion, open-book examination alleviates the problem of cheating because it significantly eliminates a students’ temptation of cheating, and reduces the possible ways of cheating. As seen in the research conducted in the Dominican University of California, open book exams It is also a better exam method since it lowers students’ anxiety but does not affect their study habits or memorization of the materials. Hence, open-book examinations are definitely a better alternative than the traditional closed-book examination. To resolve the problem of cheating, educators should indeed consider about replacing the current closed-book examination with open-book examinations. Therefore, it is a better alternative to choose open-book examinations