Effective evaluation or ineffective assent? how SDG stamping undermines effective evaluation of environmental CSR efforts and board diversity in the mining industry

Abstract

1 online resource (74 pages)Includes abstract.Includes bibliographical references (pages 68-74).The Canadian mining industry plays a critical role in the national economy, contributing significantly to GDP, exports, and employment, while also posing considerable environmental challenges. This thesis examines whether observable board diversity in Canadian mining organizations influence their environmental corporate social responsibility (ECSR) efforts aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Using mixed method content analyses, this study analyzes sustainability reports from partners of the Mining Association of Canada. Findings show no significant relationship between board diversity and SDG advancement. Organizations often applied SDG acknowledgments retroactively rather than using them as guiding principles. ECSR strategies were primarily shaped by local project needs and stakeholder concerns, not by global sustainability frameworks.This research contributes to discussions on governance and sustainability in high environmental risk industries. It highlights the need for further investigation into additional board characteristics and how organizations can better align regional and global priorities