Ethics in Global Environment

Merck & Costa Rica
Case Study

Rory S Smith
Ethics in Global Environment
State University of New York
Empire State College

Introduction

                   Companies globally are often times scrutinize for their business practices.
They face strong opposition and public humiliation when they conduct their business in an unethical way. When companies operate globally, they must ensure they are operating in a socially responsible manner. Being socially responsible is not just giving back to the local community but to be aware of any unforeseen threats that may affect the business. Many countries around the world do not have strict laws governing the preservation of their natural resources. Global companies see this to their advantage to reap the natural resources and leaving back not an ounce of guilt, for a country’s social and economic instability caused by their actions.  Industries like manufacturing, pharmaceutical and oil refinery, many corporations contribute to the injustice of violating human rights and the environment. As the business world and economy evolves into a free market enterprise, many corporations continue to demonstrate poor business practices and it is becoming difficult to hold them liable for their actions. Many corporations are also being very silent about their unjust business practices and have many ways to cover up any reported abuse. Countries that experience environmental violations, should impose strict regulatory policies so that companies cannot cover up their abuse to the general public but reprimanded for not preventing them.
                              In the Merck case study, it is evident that biodiversity has
evolved to be a growing industry. However, due to rainforest being destroyed around the world, supply is scarce for many corporations like that of Merck to conduct their research initiatives. As such, countries like Costa Rica whose resources are rich in biodiversity will seek to prevent the destruction of their rainforest. Merck did a great job in offering an incentive to use the Costa Rican natural resources. It shows that the corporation was just not eager to make a profit but to give back to the community. The issue with this case is that the citizens were not informed on the decision between Merck and INBIO. INBIO, a private organization did its job in offering to protect the rainforest by contributing the funding paid by Merck, to the preservation of the rainforest but failed to properly communicate their decision to the general public.

Costa Rica Rain Forest

                          Costa Rica rainforest is home to many species of different kind
and host an ample amount of natural plants and herbs. The rainforest plays a significant role in the preservation of extinct species and also contributes to clean air in the environment. Rainforest coverage in Costa Rica accounts for 51% of the country’s landmass (rainforestmongobay.com, 2012). Costa Rica over the last couple years have lost approximately 0.8% of its rainforest coverage (rainforestmongobay.com, 2012).The rainforest is also home to many indigenous people.