This study analyzes the trends, context, and impact of corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives on company’s performance and productivity in China. We use environmental and social responsibility data in 34,000 CSR projects released by 839 companies in 31 provinces from 2006 to 2016. Clustering methods as wells as ordinary least squares and the fixed effects panel regression modeling are performed to provide insights on the context, trends, and impact of CSR projects on companies’ productivity and financial outcomes. Results of data processing and modeling indicate that: (a) most projects focused on improving companies’ environmental sustainability (compared to social); (b) implementation of both environmental and social projects had positive impacts on companies’ performance; and (c) trends, context, and impact of the projects varied with time, company type, and location (provinces). In addition, data suggest that companies operating in regions with lower economic conditions (GDP per capita) seem to be less motivated to implement environmental and social sustainability projects compared to those operating in regions with higher economic conditions. This study is meaningful for both companies that consider adopting CSR initiatives, as well as stakeholders and managers who aim to promote sustainable development in China.

The United Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and World Health Organization (WHO) have clearly demonstrated that indoor exposure to organic gases such as Formaldehyde could cause both chronic and acute health problems ranging from irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat to headaches, dizziness, fatigue, respiratory diseases, heart disease, and cancer. Formaldehyde is a common and persistent indoor air pollutant that can virtually be found indoor and particularly in most of the existing and new homes and buildings in either developing or developed countries. The main goal and objectives of this study are to (a) understand and map socio-techno-economic motives behind having this health risk problem in built environments, and (b) develop sustainable strategies for managing exposure to Formaldehyde in indoor living. Utilizing data collected in a Case study in China suggested that exposure to formaldehyde in indoor environment is primarily a result of: (I) lack of societal awareness of the health risks associated with exposure to indoor air pollutants and effectiveness of the existing technologies, (II) weaknesses in building/architectural design and furnishing, and (III) absence of proper strategic models and programs for exposure assessment and design of instruments that could properly educate public about both the exposure risks and benefits of utilizing indoor air pollution control technologies.