As world constantly grapples with unprecedented challenges, the need for collective action towards sustainable development is more pressing than ever.
At the forefront in Sri Lanka, the United Nations Global Compact Network Sri Lanka (Network Sri Lanka), the Local Networkof the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative, advocates for responsible business practices, innovation and progress.
Network Sri Lanka aligns its efforts with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a blueprint for creating a more sustainable and equitable future. At an event titled ‘Compass 2024’ outlining programmes for 2024 and anticipated outcomes, Rathika de Silva, the Executive Director of Network Sri Lanka, said, “We will never stop investing in you (businesses) to do better on governance.”
He introduces the ‘Forward Faster’ initiative of the UN Global Compact noting, “To achieve the SDGs by 2030 we need forward thinkers. Those who see the SDGs as a driver of growth, not reputation, who are busy making progress, not just pledges. Forward Faster is here to guide companies on the areas where they can make the biggest, fastest impact for 2030.”
A key aspect of Network Sri Lanka’s roadmap for 2024 is the emphasis on active engagement in various working groups on topics such as Climate, Business and Human Rights, Gender and Diversity, Water and Ocean Stewardship and Sustainable Supply Chain. A representative from each working group updated the audience on their progress in 2023 and the proposed agendas for 2024, elaborating on key focus areas.
Participant companies such as Hayleys Fabric PLC and John Keells Holdings PLC shared their experiences. Leonie Vaas, Head of Sustainability and Innovation at Hayleys Fabric, highlighted the company’s commitment to the Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact and their transformative power in fostering innovation.
Leonie stated; “The United Nations Global Compact offers a common framework for corporate responsibility and contributes to strengthen the company’s sustainability strategy. Our dedication to sustainable innovation has brought us a lot of benefits.”
Similarly, Dinuk Gunesekera, Assistant Manager Brand Development, from John Keells Holdings PLC, a member of the team at John Keells Holdings PLC, who participated in the SDG Innovation Accelerator programme for Young Professionals facilitated by Network Sri Lanka in 2023, said, “Our idea was simple – to use an invasive species to create sustainable alternative packaging or sustainable alternative products that could replace plastic packaging and plastic products.In turn this would also provide communities with a source of income as they would be the ones that create these products.”
The experiences shared by participant companies serve as a testament in demonstrating how innovation with a focus on sustainability would not only benefit the environment and society but also enhance brand reputation, attract conscious consumers and investors and ensure compliance with regulations.
