This award recognises organisations that are pivoting to sustainable people practices as part of the broader ESG (environmental, social, and governance) agenda. Entrants will be able to show how they have put a sustainability lens on workforce practices, ensuring that employees are supported and developed to be ‘net better off’ in terms of wellbeing and employability. There will be evidence of an approach to people practices aligned to sustainability goals, for example quality of work life, upskilling, wellbeing, social, environmental and just transition objectives. 

The judges will look for evidence of creating an environment where people can thrive through improved working experiences, strategic efforts to promote wellbeing, employability and investment in future skills in the context of sustainability goals and pressures. This includes recruitment, engagement, and new ways of working that support individuals’ growth, all aligned with achieving business objectives and sustainable employment.  

Successful entries will articulate HR’s contribution and demonstrate how concern for the environment and people has resulted in increased organisational performance, development of the culture, improved brand reputation and sustainability metrics, and benefited employees and the community.   

*Details of guidance and learning to help bring sustainable people practices to life for people professionals is available on our Sustainable HRM Skillnet website