AN INTEL investor has called for the setting up of a Board Committee on Sustainability but vote has got the thumbs down from the firm’s directors.

The call came from green activist investment advisor Harrington Investments which owns “$2,000 or more of Intel stock.”

The proposal is to change an intel company bylaw to add the statement: “There is established a Board Committee on Sustainability. The committee is authorized to address corporate policies, above and beyond matters of legal compliance, in order to ensure our corporation’s sustained viability. The committee shall strive to enhance shareholder value by responding to changing conditions and knowledge of the natural environment, including but not limited to, natural resource limitations, energy use, waste disposal, and climate change.”

The supporting statement says that among other things the new committee would cover: “Issues related to sustainability might include, but are not limited to: global climate change, emerging concerns regarding toxicity of materials, resource shortages, and biodiversity loss.”

Intel’s board doesn’t like the way the change has been proposed saying: "The Board also opposes this proposal due to the format it is using." It doesn’t like setting up more committees. Perhaps they are busy. It says Intel’s reputation speaks for itself and that it is a good corporate citizen and can be found on many lists naming sustainable companies.

It responded: "The Board does not believe that an additional, redundant board committee is necessary to manage sustainability issues."

“Recommendation of the Board The Board of Directors recommends that you vote “AGAINST” this proposal amending the Bylaws to establish a Board committee on sustainability.” (their bold, and caps)

The result of the ballot will be known on May 21st at the AGM. µ