CSR: How to Showcase a Company’s Actions Through a Press Release?

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) brings together all initiatives aimed at contributing to social well-being, protecting the environment, and improving people’s living conditions.

In a context where citizens, clients, and institutions expect strong commitments from brands, knowing how to effectively communicate about CSR actions has become essential.

Among the most simple yet powerful tools, the press release holds a strategic place. It makes your commitments visible, attracts media attention, and allows you to reach a wider audience.

In this fourth article of our HR communication series, Clipse Africa shares key strategies for writing an impactful and relevant CSR press release.

Why Communicate About CSR Commitments?

CSR is about voluntarily integrating social, environmental, ethical, and economic concerns at the heart of a company’s activities. It is a powerful lever to strengthen brand image, but only if these commitments are made visible.

A CSR press release is the ideal tool to highlight your initiatives, especially in the following cases:

• Launch of a CSR program or action plan

• Publication of an internal study (social barometer, employee satisfaction survey…)

• Obtaining a label or an ethical/environmental certification

• Partnership with an NGO or participation in a national/international initiative

1. A Clear and Action-Oriented Title

The title must be simple, precise, and impactful. It should clearly mention the nature of the CSR action.

Examples:

• Bois Robuste launches a reforestation campaign in 10 villages of Southern Côte d’Ivoire

• Canot publishes a survey on employees’ perception of its CSR commitments

2. A Concise and Informative Lead Paragraph

The lead summarizes the key information: Who? What? Where? When? Why?

Example:
The initiative, led by Bois Robuste, will begin in July in ten villages in Southern Côte d’Ivoire. It is part of the company’s ongoing efforts for reforestation and biodiversity preservation.

3. A First Section Detailing the Action

Present clearly and concretely:

• The measures taken

• The resources mobilized

• The target audiences

• The short- and long-term objectives

The more specific your press release, the more credible and likely it is to be picked up by the media.

4. A Section Dedicated to Testimonials

Quotations make the message more human and persuasive.

Example:
“This campaign reflects our determination to contribute concretely to the regeneration of forest ecosystems while creating value for local communities,” explains Awa Koné, CSR Director of Bois Robuste.

5. A Conclusion With the Company Profile

End with:

• The company’s identity card (founding date, sector, size, markets…)

• Its main CSR commitments already in place

• Awards or certifications obtained

• A press contact for journalists

In Summary

A well-written CSR press release is much more than an announcement tool: it is a strategic way to highlight commitments, build credibility, and establish your reputation as a responsible company.

When properly structured, it becomes a true lever for brand awareness and a concrete tool to unite partners, clients, and employees around shared values.