Feature Articles

Younger generations are committed to work that promises environmental sustainability. Intensified by the lessons of the pandemic, younger people continue to push for businesses and governments that don’t shy away from environmental responsibility. As we reach for a “better new normal”, business leaders need to ask how they can take full advantage of these value-driven commitments. Jack Barwise explores.

A summary of the government guidance for employers in England on how workplaces can remain Covid-19 secure.

This feature advises on the procedures employers may wish to put in place when re-opening the workplace, relating to revising working methods, employee training and absence management, as well as some of the more common HR considerations.

The risks from Covid-19 are still very much present in the workplace and it is important to remember that employers have a duty of care towards their employees and should take reasonable steps to protect the health and safety of their workforce. This information is being continually checked and updated.

Even a Biden presidency with limited political clout will almost certainly announce major emission cuts for November 2021’s COP26 global climate summit in Glasgow, boosting both the world’s zero-carbon drive and UK environmental credentials. Jon Herbert reports.

Many companies have developed advanced digital business strategies at record speed during 2020. In parallel, tech-driven health and safety tools addressing a wide range of future risks have also made their way swiftly into the workplace. Jon Herbert reports.

Video conferencing has allowed us to stay connected while workplaces are closed or only part-occupied. But are we following best practice? Laura King considers how to ensure online meetings are accessible as well as giving some practical tips on avoiding Zoom fatigue.

New UK offshore wind industry funding — part of a 10-point sustainable recovery plan due before Christmas — could help to create a new green supply chain, skills and job opportunities if the steps are substantial rather than conference season hot air. Jon Herbert reports.

With the Job Retention (furlough) Scheme having been extended once again, many employers will be wondering if there are any key changes to the Scheme to be aware of. In short — yes, there are. Ben McCarthy, lead researcher and employment law writer at Croner-i, examines this more closely below.

The harrowing news within WWF’s 2020 Living Planet Report that population sizes of global wildlife have fallen by 68% on average since 1970, alongside the powerful warnings and incitements to action of David Attenborough’s A Life On Our Planet documentary, have meant that the urgency of protecting the Earth’s biodiversity has rarely been clearer. However, whilst individuals can help make a difference through lifestyle changes and making donations, it can be less clear how businesses can play their part in preserving wildlife. Tim and Caroline Hand explore the numerous companies who are already setting very positive examples through their pro-biodiversity activities, serving as inspiration for other businesses that wish to adopt a greener approach.