David Orr on the benefits of being UN Global Compact Network UK SDG Pioneer 2022

We spoke to David Orr , Product Lead – Moata Net Zero at Mott MacDonald , our 2022 SDG Pioneer and Global SDG Pioneer for Climate Mitigation, on his experience of the campaign. He shared why you should apply and how he has benefitted since being named SDG Pioneer. ??

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What have you gained since becoming the 2022 UN Global Compact Network UK SDG Pioneer, and the Global 2022 SDG Pioneer for Climate Mitigation?

It came as a surprise…but a very happy one! Above all, I think it provides confidence that the work we do at Mott MacDonald supports colleagues to make a tangible impact on the climate and the communities where we operate. It also shows how much more work is needed amongst the private sector to meet decarbonisation targets.

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Do you think the campaign has helped you advance professionally?

Absolutely. It’s demonstrated that I’m (hopefully!) on the right path to support the private sector to limit their climate impact, and I’ve taken on new projects to advance this goal. I’ve also been fortunate to share some ideas with the UNGC Network UK on how we can make sustainability more tangible, and shared a presentation at University of Cambridge’s business school on how we can harness innovation to drive sustainable outcomes.

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Have Mott MacDonald benefitted from you being named as an SDG Pioneer?

I hope so. Many of the projects were directly tied to work undertaken with colleagues at Mott MacDonald, so it’s helped to showcase how Mott MacDonald supports clients to advance their climate ambitions. I think it’s also demonstrated to Mott MacDonald the value of the UN Global Compact to support employees’ professional and personal growth.

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What is the best thing to come out of winning SDG Pioneers?

Meeting other SDG Pioneers during the UN Global Compact’s Private Sector Forum in New York in September 2022, which was hosted by Assistant Secretary-General and CEO of the UNGC, Sanda Ojiambo. It was genuinely inspiring to learn about their incredible contributions to sustainability, and we’ve stayed in touch since to share ideas.

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How would you sum up your experience?

It’s been phenomenal. From exposure to other changemakers, to sharing the impact of projects I’ve worked on more widely, it’s been a real privilege, and inspired me to find new ways to create a sustainable impact.

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What would you say to anyone considering entering the SDG Pioneer campaign?

Apply! It’s a rigorous but rewarding process to go through, and it’s heartening to meet peers around the world working to create positive change in the private sector.

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To learn more about the 2023 campaign, apply yourself, or nominate another individual, visit our website here: www.unglobalcompact.org.uk/SDG-Pioneers-2023