A Lighter Shade of Green - Survey: More Than Half of CFOs Don't Expect to
Boost Sustainability Efforts in Next 12 Months; Others See More Urgency

TORONTO , Nov. 5 /CNW/ - Despite the country's attention on eco-friendly programs and policies, a new survey suggests most businesses are not planning to step up their efforts in this area - at least not in the next year. When asked whether they expect their companies' emphasis on green initiatives to increase, decrease or remain the same in the next 12 months, 57 per cent of chief financial officers (CFOs) interviewed said they anticipate no changes. Nearly four in 10 (39 per cent), however, said they expect an increased focus on the issue.

The survey was developed by Robert Half Management Resources, the world's premier provider of senior-level accounting and finance professionals on a project and interim basis. It was conducted by an independent research firm and includes responses from 270 CFOs across Canada .

CFOs were asked, "In the next 12 months, do you expect your company's focus on green initiatives will increase, decrease or remain the same?" Their responses:

    
    No change........................................................    57%
    Increase significantly...........................................    10%
    Increase somewhat................................................    29%
    Decrease somewhat................................................     0%
    Decrease significantly...........................................     2%
    Don't know.......................................................     2%
                                                                      -------
                                                                        100%
    

"Green initiatives may already be part of the corporate fabric for many companies, and executives may not feel that further investments are needed in the short term," said David King , executive vice president of Robert Half Management Resources. "In other cases, a focus on profitability and the bottom line may have prompted businesses to delay initiatives."

King noted that beyond being good for the environment, green initiatives also can save a company money and have a positive effect on employee morale. "For many people, working for a firm that is a good corporate citizen is a priority, and businesses that establish a positive reputation in this area can enhance their recruitment and retention efforts."

About the Survey

The national study was developed by Robert Half Management Resources. It was conducted by an independent research firm and is based on more than 270 telephone interviews with CFOs across Canada .

About Robert Half Management Resources

Robert Half Management Resources is the premier provider of senior-level accounting and finance professionals to supplement companies' project and interim staffing needs. The company has more than 145 locations worldwide and offers online job search services at www.roberthalfmr.com.

For further information: Kristie Perrotte, [phone], [email protected]