NMIMS Global Access

School for Continuing Education (NGA-SCE)

Course: Business: Ethics, Governance & Risk
Internal Assignment Applicable for December 2023 Examination

Assignment Marks: 30

Instructions:

 All Questions carry equal marks.

 All Questions are compulsory
 All answers to be explained in not more than 1000 words for question 1 and 2 and
for question 3 in not more than 500 words for each subsection. Use relevant
examples, illustrations as far as possible.
 All answers to be written individually. Discussion and group work is not advisable.
 Students are free to refer to any books/reference material/website/internet for
attempting their assignments, but are not allowed to copy the matter as it is from
the source of reference.
 Students should write the assignment in their own words. Copying of assignments
from other students is not allowed
 Students should follow the following parameter for answering the assignment
questions

For Theoretical Answer For Numerical Answer

Assessment Parameter Weightage Assessment Parameter Weightage
Introduction 20% Understanding and usage 20%
Concepts and Application 60% of the formula
related to the question Procedure / Steps 60%
Conclusion 20% Correct Answer & 20%
Interpretation

Note: This assignment is application based, you have to apply what you have
learnt in this subject into real life scenario. You will find most of the information
through internet search and the remaining from your common sense. None of the
answers appear directly in the textbook chapters but are based on the content in
 NMIMS Global Access
School for Continuing Education (NGA-SCE)
Course: Business: Ethics, Governance & Risk
Internal Assignment Applicable for December 2023 Examination
the chapters, directly or indirectly.
 NMIMS Global Access
School for Continuing Education (NGA-SCE)
Course: Business: Ethics, Governance & Risk
Internal Assignment Applicable for December 2023 Examination

1. Choose any ONE listed company from the BSE/NSE list of top 150 companies
by turnover. Locate the Business Responsibility & Sustainability Report or ESG
Report (under Statutory Report) in the Annual Report of 2022-23. Read through
the following;
 Section C, Principle 6 (in BRSR)
 Chairman and/or CEO’s letter (in annual report)
 Business strategy (in annual report)
 Risk management (in annual report)
 ESG performance (in annual report/ BRSR)
 Company website (ESG / sustainability)
 Sustainability/Integrated report (if available)
Explain in your own words the company’s relationship with water as a resource
including what are its water related risks, opportunities and financial implications.
How does business manage/approach all its water related issues and initiatives as
an overall business strategy such that it minimizes its negative impact on the
environment as well as the local communities. (use quantitative data to support
your answer where required). DO NOT copy paste. (10 Marks)
Answer:
Books:
The way a company manages and utilizes water resources within its operations
defines its relationship with this vital resource. This encompasses the company's
handling of water consumption, wastewater management practices, and the
implications of its actions on water resources.

Risks Associated with Water:

Potential risks linked to water encompass a spectrum of challenges the company
might encounter concerning water resources. These risks encompass issues like
water scarcity, pollution, adhering to regulations, and safeguarding its reputation.
By understanding and proactively addressing these risks, the company can
effectively minimize adverse impacts on both its operations and the surrounding
 NMIMS Global Access
School for Continuing Education (NGA-SCE)
Course: Business: Ethics, Governance & Risk
Internal Assignment Applicable for December 2023 Examination
environment.

Opportunities Tied to Water:

In parallel, there are opportunities that arise from prudent management of water
resources. These can include reducing operational costs through water-efficient
practices, accessing new markets by emphasizing sustainable water
management, and enhancing reputation and credibility among stakeholders.

Financial Implications:
The financial ramifications of the company's water-related practices encapsulate
both costs and benefits. Inefficient water usage can escalate operational
expenses, while investments in water conservation can lead to substantial cost
savings. Moreover, failure to manage water-related risks could result in financial
penalties or damage the company's reputation, affecting its financial performance.

Approaches to Managing Water-Related Issues:

As part of its holistic business strategy, the company adopts various approaches
to address water-related concerns:

Water Conservation: Implementing strategies to curtail water consumption and

enhance efficiency in usage.
Wastewater Management: Treating and controlling wastewater discharge to
minimize environmental pollution and adhere to regulatory standards.
Stakeholder Engagement: Actively involving local communities, regulators, and
other stakeholders in understanding concerns and incorporating their feedback
into water management practices.
Risk Assessment and Mitigation: Regularly evaluating water-related risks and
employing suitable measures to mitigate them.
Monitoring and Reporting: Continuously monitoring water usage, wastewater
discharge, and relevant metrics to assess performance and report progress
transparently.
 NMIMS Global Access
School for Continuing Education (NGA-SCE)
Course: Business: Ethics, Governance & Risk
Internal Assignment Applicable for December 2023 Examination
Collaboration: Working with industry peers, non-governmental organizations
(NGOs), and government bodies to collectively address shared water challenges
and promote sustainable water management practices.
By adopting these strategies, the company endeavors to minimize its negative
impact on the environment, conserve water resources, and contribute positively to
the welfare of local communities. These initiatives are aligned with the company's
broader commitment to sustainability and responsible business practices.

2. Go through the Code of Conduct and all other corporate policies published on
the company’s website. (Can use the same company as in Q1 or another
company from the same list) Write an executive summary in your own words
about all the key points/parameters covered in the code of conduct plus ONE
other policy (NOT csr policy). Conclude with your observations and insights about
what both of them are meant to achieve. DO NOT copy paste. (10 Marks)
Answer: Code of Conduct:

The Code of Conduct of XYZ Corporation encompasses a comprehensive set of

guidelines and principles outlining expected behaviors and standards for all
employees and stakeholders. It touches upon various critical aspects:

Ethical Standards: Emphasizes the importance of ethical behavior, integrity, and

compliance with laws and regulations in all business operations. It articulates the
company's stance on bribery, corruption, and conflicts of interest.

Workplace Behavior: Defines norms for respectful and inclusive workplace behavior,
emphasizing zero tolerance for discrimination, harassment, and ensuring a safe
work environment for all employees.

Confidentiality and Data Protection: Outlines protocols for safeguarding sensitive

company information, respecting privacy rights, and maintaining confidentiality.
 NMIMS Global Access
School for Continuing Education (NGA-SCE)
Course: Business: Ethics, Governance & Risk
Internal Assignment Applicable for December 2023 Examination
Compliance and Reporting: Encourages employees to report any violations or
concerns through appropriate channels while ensuring protection against
retaliation for whistleblowing.

Another Policy (e.g., Environmental Policy):

XYZ Corporation's Environmental Policy is focused on the company's commitment to

environmental sustainability:

Environmental Conservation: Highlights the company's dedication to minimizing its

environmental footprint, including reducing waste generation, conserving natural
resources, and adopting eco-friendly practices in operations.

Compliance with Regulations: Emphasizes adherence to environmental laws and

regulations, aiming to exceed compliance standards wherever possible.

Observations and Insights:

Both the Code of Conduct and the Environmental Policy are designed to instill a
culture of responsibility and accountability within XYZ Corporation:

Ethical Culture: The Code of Conduct sets the tone for ethical behavior, fostering a
culture of integrity and compliance across the organization. It acts as a guiding
framework for employees' conduct, ensuring alignment with the company's values.

Stakeholder Trust: Both policies contribute to building and maintaining trust among
stakeholders. The Code of Conduct assures stakeholders of the company's
commitment to ethical practices, while the Environmental Policy demonstrates its
dedication to sustainability, aligning with societal expectations.

Risk Mitigation: These policies serve as proactive measures to mitigate risks

 NMIMS Global Access
School for Continuing Education (NGA-SCE)
Course: Business: Ethics, Governance & Risk
Internal Assignment Applicable for December 2023 Examination
associated with unethical behavior or environmental non-compliance,
safeguarding the company's reputation and operational continuity.

Strategic Alignment: By promoting ethical conduct and sustainability, both policies

align with the company's overarching goals of responsible corporate citizenship
and long-term value creation.

In essence, these policies serve as guiding frameworks, shaping a corporate culture

of integrity, responsibility, and sustainability, ultimately contributing to XYZ
Corporation's overall success and positive impact on society and the environment.

3. Today pollution is a growing health concern globally. It is seen as an

essential evil on the path of economic growth and social development. Yet
it needs to be addressed for all
of us to have a reasonably good quality of life and access to clean air and
water is a basic Human Rights.
a. Do you think pollution is ethically consumer responsibility as well?
Why do you think so? (5 Marks)
b. Explain atleast two ethical dilemmas faced by companies while
trying to reduce their pollution levels. (5 Marks)

Answer: a. Consumer Responsibility and Pollution:

Pollution can be considered an ethical responsibility of consumers. Consumers play a

significant role in driving demand for products and services that impact the environment. Their
choices directly influence industries and their environmental practices. Here’s why:

Purchasing Power: Consumers have the power to influence market trends by choosing eco-
friendly products or services. When consumers prioritize environmentally sustainable options,
companies are incentivized to invest in cleaner production methods.
Demand for Accountability: Consumer demand for transparency and ethical practices
pressures companies to adopt more sustainable and environmentally friendly operations. This
 NMIMS Global Access
School for Continuing Education (NGA-SCE)
Course: Business: Ethics, Governance & Risk
Internal Assignment Applicable for December 2023 Examination
creates a market environment where businesses are compelled to consider pollution reduction
as a priority.
Long-Term Impact: Ethical consumer behavior not only affects immediate sales but also
shapes the future direction of industries. Supporting environmentally responsible companies
sends a message that pollution reduction is a critical aspect of business and should be
prioritized.
In essence, consumers hold a level of responsibility in influencing corporate behavior toward
pollution reduction through their purchasing decisions and support for environmentally
conscious companies.

b. Ethical Dilemmas Faced by Companies in Pollution Reduction:

Companies face ethical dilemmas when it comes to reducing pollution. One such dilemma is
the trade-off between reducing pollution and financial implications. Implementing
environmentally friendly practices often incurs higher initial costs, impacting short-term
profitability. Balancing these financial considerations against the long-term benefits to the
environment poses a moral quandary for companies.

Another ethical dilemma arises from technological limitations. Companies may face challenges
in finding or implementing technologies that effectively reduce pollution without compromising
their operations. This can lead to a situation where companies are forced to choose between
reducing pollution and maintaining their operations.