Unveiling the Human Side of Sustainability: Beyond Data and Audits

In today's rapidly changing world, sustainability has become a critical topic of discussion. However, it's important to recognize that sustainability is not solely about crunching numbers or conducting desktop audits. It goes much deeper, for any sustainability strategy to be successful it involves understanding human behaviours, acknowledging the diverse perspectives on climate change, facilitating change without confrontation, and explaining the "why" behind our sustainable actions.

1. Understanding People Behaviours:

Sustainability initiatives often rely on individuals adopting environmentally-friendly practices. By delving into the psychology behind people's behaviour's, we can gain insights into what motivates or hinders sustainable actions. Recognizing the values, beliefs, and habits that influence behaviour empowers us to design strategies that effectively engage and inspire individuals to embrace sustainable practices, making sustainability engaging means removing steps to make them the easiest choice.

2. Embracing Diversity in Understanding Climate Change:

Climate change affects communities worldwide, but its impact can vary greatly depending on geographical, cultural, and socio-economic factors. Acknowledging and respecting these diverse perspectives fosters inclusive conversations and collaboration. By embracing different viewpoints, we can collectively develop sustainable solutions that consider the unique challenges faced by various communities, what could look like a great solution in the UK, could be a devastating solution in a developing country that may not have the same infrastructure or available resources.

3. Talking People Through Change:

Change can be daunting, especially when it comes to adopting sustainable practices. To avoid confrontation and resistance, effective communication is key. This involves not only providing information but also actively listening and empathizing with individuals' concerns. By engaging in open and honest dialogue, we can help people understand the benefits of sustainability, address their fears, and guide them towards embracing change with enthusiasm, when we talk about these changes are we talking in a langue that is not understood, do people know what sustainability is?

4. Explaining the "Why":

To truly drive sustainable actions, it's crucial to explain the underlying reasons behind our efforts. By highlighting the broader impact of sustainable practices on the environment, society, and future generations, we can inspire a sense of purpose and personal connection. When people understand the "why" behind their actions, they are more likely to adopt sustainable behaviours willingly and enthusiastically. We often assume people know this, which creates the biggest barrier towards a sustainability strategy, when people do not understand they criticise and become defensive.

By focusing on the aspects above, we can foster a more inclusive and effective approach to implementing a sustainability strategy that truly resonates with individuals and drives positive change towards company targets and a collective culture that supports the future existence of the plant we all live.