US: Brown-Forman releases corporate responsibility report

Brown-Forman Corporation has released its first corporate responsibility report, encompassing the company's commitment to social, environmental, civic, financial, and personal responsibilities.

The US-based wines and spirits group said the report focuses on its efforts to reduce the harmful effects of alcohol abuse.

However, it also addresses the problem of climate change and discusses Brown-Forman's energy and greenhouse gas management strategy regarding this concern. In addition, the report provides an overview of the company's relationship with employees and community.

The theme of the company's initial Corporate Responsibility Report is "Our Long-Term Perspective," Brown-Forman said.

"With this report, we add a more formal reporting dimension to a process that has been ongoing at Brown-Forman for years," said company chief executive officer Paul Varga. "I'm quite pleased with the progress we're making on corporate responsibility, while also believing that our best work and best days are still ahead of us."

Director of corporate responsibility Rob Frederick said: "Although Brown-Forman's commitment to corporate responsibility is not new, this first report elevates our commitment and makes more transparent the critical issues and challenges we face. We're really hoping people who read the report will give us their feedback."