Achieving sustainable corporate social responsibility outcomes: A multiple case study in the South African mining industry

Abstract

Mining companies are responding to increasing pressure to conduct their operations responsibly by implementing corporate social responsibility (CSR) projects in their host communities. However, it has been argued that few of these projects result in sustainable outcomes. Stakeholder engagement should be inclusive to ensure CSR project sustainability. The purpose of this multiple-case study was to explore stakeholder engagement in achieving sustainable CSR outcomes in the South African mining industry. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews with community development specialists from three South African mining companies. It was found that mining companies implement CSR projects intending to achieve economic, social and environmental sustainability within their host communities. Stakeholders are actively engaged in project planning as their involvement in decision-making is critical for sustainable projects through obtaining stakeholder buy-in, collaboration and involvement. The study recommends that management balances diverse stakeholder expectations and educate stakeholders on corporate mining issues. Theoretically the study adds to the understanding of stakeholder engagement for sustainable CSR outcomes in the South African mining industry.