Ecological Activity as Part of the Corporate Social Responsibility Concept Area (Based on the Example of Agricultural Enterprises in Rural Areas)

Subject and purpose of work: The purpose of this article is to show the results of the analysis of the involvement of micro-, small and medium-sized agribusiness enterprises operating in rural areas with reference to the issues of social responsibility in protection of natural environment. Materials and methods: Research on entrepreneurs’ views on CSR activities was conducted at the turn of 2016 and 2017 and included 212 micro (0-9 persons), small (10-49 employees) and medium (50-249 employees) agribusiness enterprises conducting business activity in the rural areas of the Wielkopolska province. Results: The conducted research has confirmed the common view that micro enterprises show little interest in implementing basic standards of social responsibility in the “environment” area. The situation is slightly better for small and medium enterprises. Conclusions: Pro-environmental activities, especially in the agribusiness sector, should be promoted, highlighting the range of benefits that can be achieved through these activities, such as improving relationships with the local community, increasing employees’ motivation, and increasing customers’ loyalty.