In this special episode ahead of COP30, Cecilia Crossley explores the transformative potential of collaboration between HR and Sustainability functions to drive competitive business alongside social and environmental impact. Cecilia is joined by Antoine Poincaré, CEO of AXA Climate School, with contributions from Jacky Griffiths, Director of ESG People & Culture at Grant Thornton UK; and Helen Redfern, Chief People, Communications & Sustainability Officer at Dowlais Group plc.

Antoine shares examples of how climate change is reshaping HR practices, from low-carbon commuting incentives and climate-related leave to new physical and psychological risks for employees. He highlights four key areas for HR focus: decarbonisation, risk management, employer branding, and green skills. 

Cecilia illustrates how HR policy and practice - from wellbeing objectives and flexible working to corporate pensions, connect to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, demonstrating that people strategy can drive tangible environmental and social impact – to the benefit of people goals.

Jacky and Helen offer practical guidance on embedding sustainability across organisations. Jacky emphasises storytelling and incremental progress, and Helen highlights giving HR, sustainability, and communications equal executive voice. Cecilia closes with her ‘one wish’ for HR leaders: if you’ve not yet already, take a first step to collaborate with Sustainability peers.

Thank you to Staffbase for sponsoring this episode  

Staffbase knows that HR leaders are driving transformation in the workplace and they're here to help.

Staffbase Communications Cloud empowers HR leaders to be transformation trailblazers, driving trust and business success in change through strategic communication. Their internal communications platform empowers companies to connect with their people, whether they're at their desks or on the front lines.

With tools that improve engagement, amplify employee voices and align everyone with your company's goals, Staffbase makes it easier for HR leaders to create and measure lasting change. Want to learn more? Head over to Staffbase.com to see how Staffbase can help your organisation thrive.

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Are you looking for your next great read that inspires you and helps your work? 

Each month we recommend a book that challenges, motivates and uplifts, every pick is selected to spark meaningful conversations and personal growth.

Our November Book of the Month is Humankind: A Hopeful History by Rutger Bregman

A wonderful celebration of the goodness in people and the extraordinary ways we come together when it really matters. Bregman gently challenges the belief that people are inherently selfish and divisive, showing instead that at our core we are kind, generous, and ready to help one another.

Humankind shares inspiring stories from history, science, and everyday life, demonstrating how small acts of trust and solidarity can spark big change in society. For anyone looking for an antidote to today’s unsettling headlines, this is a brilliant, feel-good read - full of optimism, hope, and truly soothing for the soul.

It makes the perfect gift for friends, family, colleagues, or clients. You can also pair it with our Humankind Holiday Gift Bundle or our brand-new hampers, filled with seasonal delights like kind-hearted chocolates, supercharged teas, and thoughtfully curated stationery. These impact-led gifts show how much you care and are perfect for spreading inspiration and appreciation this holiday season.

Why not also treat your team? Send a copy along with a gift bundle, and encourage them to pass the book on and share a discussion about what they learned - a simple, thoughtful way to spark meaningful conversations at work.

Head to upliftingpeople.com  to grab your copy, and we hope you enjoy this month’s Uplifting Book!