We are all stakeholders : Participatory decision - making and corporate sustainability

This paper is about extending stakeholder dialogue to include citizens in decision making which impacts on corporate sustainabilityolicy frameworks using the tools of regulation and economic instruments, and communication strategies, have a significant influence on the level of corporate sustainability. Involving citizens, through the use of deliberative and representative (participatory) processes, in the creation of these frameworks is an effective way of reducing the influence of selfor sectoral-interests in the development of policy. Moving beyond self-interest is an essential requirement in the creation of change towards sustainable futures, for example, in order to ensure the appropriate consideration of social and environmental externalities. This paper will describe the methodology and outcome of a process of participatory decision making in relation to a legislative review of an example of extended producer responsibility: a deposit and refund system on drink containers. We conducted a citizens’ jury and televote, and established a reference group containing the key stakeholders. This case study illustrates how self-interest amongst stakeholders creates resistance to implementation of a public policy initiative that increases the level of corporate sustainability. The participating citizens by contrast, in this case study and others, are able to put self interest aside in their deliberations. We are all stakeholders in creating sustainable futures. Participatory decision-making builds a mandate for change that can raise the level of corporate sustainability in a transparent and accountable way.