The use of the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategy by the tobacco industry in the promotion of electronic smoking devices (ESDs) [STOP project]

Changes related to the interference of interested sectors and the role of the State in the economy and society are a phenomenon that has been happening worldwide in recent decades and has consequently generated discussions about the role of private organizations in public health issues (Serpa & Fourneau, 2007). A growing number of companies worldwide have been striving to incorporate corporate social responsibility (CSR) as an integral part of their business. Currently, there is no consensus on the definition of the term CSR. However, authors such as Harjoto & Jo (2011) and Cai and colleagues (2011) suggest that the definitions of CSR refer to the efforts of companies to serve the society and the environment beyond what is required of them.