There are several concepts of corporate social responsibility, some of which may seem familiar to the business world. Many of the concepts involve investment in existing business practices and also new ways to drive additional business for a company.

Environmental Responsibilities. This concept is about making sure that the company or its projects to help reduce or eliminate environmental problems. The way that this is typically done is by supporting or participating in activities that improve the quality of the environment, such as improving the efficiency of factories or creating projects like recycling centers. This may include taking responsibility for the maintenance of water supplies and recycling waste, for example.

Social Responsibility. In terms of this concept, companies take an active role in providing services that benefit their employees and clients. These may include free lunch programs, health benefits, training courses, and volunteer opportunities.

Labor Responsibilities. In this concept, companies take on workers who are in training or have not previously worked for a company. They may offer education and on-the-job training, provide assistance to prepare for job interviews and often offer better pay and benefits than normal.

Public Responsibility. In this concept, companies take a positive and active role in the community and allow their name to be linked with a particular cause. They may run events for peace, build trees or plants, promote AIDS awareness, support juvenile offenders and other causes.

Tax Responsibilities. In terms of this concept, companies take an active role in paying taxes on profits that are earned. They may contribute funds to organizations that assist children, pay high taxes or donate money to certain causes.

Investment Ideas. In this concept, companies invest in a particular project, like a hospital or a center for arts and sciences. Their money can be used to make things better or to better the lives of those who may not otherwise have access to these types of services.

PR Ideas. Companies make a concerted effort to create positive publicity about themselves and their operations. This may include showing the latest innovations in some projects or paying to advertise the services and products that they have to offer.

Products. This concept involves businesses' focus on developing goods and services that people will want to buy. Examples of products that have received extensive publicity include books, products and services for domestic and international travelers.

Those are the basic concepts. While all of them can be used to contribute to a company's social responsibility efforts, there are also other ways that you can help to improve the world around you. You can help by donating your time or taking care of a relationship that is struggling, for example.

For specific projects, think about what you can do to help. Do a search on the Internet for initiatives or events in your community that can use help. Look at some online community magazines, visit the World Wildlife Fund's website and consult with others about how to make a difference.

For corporate social responsibility, the concept that is the most important is how you go about your responsibilities. If you look at your company as an entity and what you do in terms of your external interaction as opposed to internally, you will find that this concept is much easier to recognize. Make it part of your personal mission to make the world a better place.