ABSTRACT
This chapter provides The Netherlands profiles, including key information about the relevant corporate sustainability and responsibility (CSR) history, country-specific issues, trends, research, education and leading organizations. The Netherlands has strong social traditions, rooted in its history, Christian beliefs and culture which support the principles of social responsibility. Its geography provides the background to its concern for environmental issues. The Netherlands is a country built on a major river delta and requires a complex system of dykes and pumping stations to keep the water at bay. Environmental challenges for the Netherlands are climate change and land management, while in the social sphere the main concerns revolve around the changing demography alongside equal opportunities and diversity. The Netherlands was a pioneer in environmental policy planning, auditing and management systems and many issues are under control. The Netherlands has a strong legislative framework for many aspects of CSR including environment, health and safety, labour, human rights and corporate governance.
