Welcome to the fourth episode of Better Than We Found It the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices. Joining us this week is Ruth Handcock, CEO at Octopus Money.
In this episode we find out exactly who is Octopus Money, what it takes to launch a bank, driving consumer trust through collaboration and of course how Ruth would like to leave the planet better than we found it.
Watch and listen to the episode via&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4jXd7hydef0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">YouTube</a><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4jXd7hydef0" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> here</a>, it can also be found on<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/episode-4-ruth-hancock/id1699387432?i=1000631696809"> Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/6z6fNydTIaiTJTG5DaJij0?si=c3827c797e994f8b" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Spotify</a>.

Better Than We Found It - Episode 4 (Ruth Handcock)

At GS2, we understand the importance of upgrading and replacing equipment with eco-friendly alternatives to enhance energy efficiency. Embracing a sustainable approach not only benefits the environment, by combating climate change but also presents numerous advantages for businesses, from reduced operational costs to enhanced reputation.&nbsp;
In this article, we will explore the opportune times to transition to green alternatives to make your&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gs2partnership.com/sectors/sustainable-business/">business sustainable</a>, how to reduce waste and how it can make a significant impact on your workplace's overall sustainability journey.
<h2>Evaluating Energy Efficiency of Workplace Equipment</h2>
As technological advancements continue to accelerate, the energy efficiency of workplace equipment is also improving. Businesses must regularly evaluate their existing equipment and assess its environmental impact.&nbsp;
When evaluating the need for replacement, several key factors should be considered to make the transition to greener alternatives seamless and practical.
<h3>Age</h3>
Age plays a significant role in determining the suitability of workplace equipment for an eco-friendly upgrade. As equipment ages, its energy efficiency may decrease, leading to higher energy consumption and increased greenhouse gas emissions.&nbsp;
We recommend a thorough evaluation of equipment nearing the end of its operational life to determine whether it is still meeting the required energy efficiency standards. When equipment no longer aligns with current eco-friendly benchmarks, it is an opportune time to consider greener alternatives.
Technological advancements in the market should be closely monitored. Innovations in energy-efficient equipment and green technologies are continuously emerging. Upgrading to equipment that boasts cutting-edge energy-saving features not only minimises your carbon footprint but also ensures your workplace remains competitive in a rapidly changing market.
<h3 dir="ltr">Assess Energy Consumption</h3>
Another consideration when replacing equipment is to assess its current energy consumption and environmental impact. Gathering comprehensive data on energy usage can help identify the most energy-intensive components of your operations.&nbsp;
By targeting these areas for upgrades with green alternatives, you can maximise your impact on reducing energy consumption and contributing to a more sustainable future.
<h3>Benefits of Choosing Eco-Friendly Equipment</h3>
ESG professionals strive towards making a positive impact, a company's commitment to sustainability will boost its brand reputation and attract environmentally conscious talent. In recent years, public awareness of <a href="https://www.gs2partnership.com/climate-change/">climate change</a> and environmental issues has grown substantially, leading consumers to make more informed choices.&nbsp;
Embracing eco-friendly alternatives demonstrates a company's dedication to sustainability, fostering trust and loyalty among its customer base.
The financial aspect of adopting greener alternatives also presents a compelling case for replacement. While some businesses might be hesitant about the initial costs, it is crucial to consider the long-term benefits. Energy-efficient equipment can significantly reduce utility expenses, leading to substantial cost savings over time.
<h4 dir="ltr">Let's Make the World a Better Place Together</h4>
Transitioning to eco-friendly alternatives is not just an ethical choice; it is a strategic move. All in all, it positively impacts the environment, contributes towards fighting climate change, enhances brand reputation, and makes companies more attractive to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gs2partnership.com/candidates/">candidates</a> while boosting cost-efficiency. We believe that businesses have a vital role to play in shaping a sustainable future and it all starts with the people you hire.&nbsp;
Remember, together, we can achieve more, and <a href="https://www.gs2partnership.com/contact-us/">GS2 is here to support your journey</a> towards a greener and more sustainable future.

When Should Workplace Equipment be Replaced for Eco-Friendly Alternatives?

Traditional recruitment practices are giving way to innovative approaches that align with sustainability and long-term business success. Enter "sustainable recruitment", a concept that's transforming how companies attract, nurture, and retain talent while prioritising ethical, societal, and environmental considerations. This blog serves as your definitive guide to understanding sustainable recruitment, its benefits, and why it's crucial for businesses aiming to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
<h2>Defining Sustainable Recruitment</h2>
Defining Sustainable Recruitment Sustainable recruitment is the strategic approach to talent acquisition that not only focuses on fulfilling immediate hiring needs but also considers the long-term impact of these hires on a company's culture, growth, and societal contributions. Unlike traditional recruitment, which often targets short-term objectives, sustainable recruitment emphasises building a workforce that's aligned with a company's core values, mission, and&nbsp;<a href="https://gs2partnership.com/sustainability/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">sustainable goals</a>.
<h3>The Significance of Sustainable Recruitment</h3>
Sustainable recruitment is becoming a vital practice for growing businesses. To learn more about the benefits and strategies of sustainable recruitment, consider consulting with a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gs2partnership.com/sustainability-recruitment-specialists/">sustainability recruitment</a> agency.Here are some of the reasons why:
<h4>1. Creating an Aligned Workforce</h4>
<a href="https://www.gs2partnership.com/sectors/sustainable-business/">Sustainable recruitment</a> aims to match candidates whose values align with a company's culture. This alignment ensures employees are motivated, engaged, and invested in the company's success. It's more than just a job; it's a shared commitment to a common purpose.
<h4>2. Fostering Diversity and Inclusion</h4>
A cornerstone of sustainable recruitment is diversity. Companies that embrace <a href="https://www.gs2partnership.com/advisory-services/">diverse talent</a> not only reflect the real world but also enjoy a range of perspectives that fuel innovation and creativity. Diversity drives success by allowing fresh ideas to flourish and challenging the status quo.
<h4>3. Reducing Turnover and Increasing Retention</h4>
When candidates feel a strong connection to a company's values and mission, they're more likely to stay for the long haul. Sustainable recruitment reduces turnover rates, saving companies the costs associated with frequent hiring and training.
<h4 dir="ltr">4. Enhancing Brand Reputation</h4>
Companies committed to sustainable recruitment are seen as responsible and forward-thinking. Such a reputation not only attracts <a href="https://www.gs2partnership.com/talent-solutions/">quality candidates</a> but also resonates with customers, investors, and partners, bolstering brand value and loyalty.
<h3>The Role of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gs2partnership.com/sustainability-recruitment-specialists/">Sustainability Recruitment Agencies</a></h3>
The Role of Sustainability Recruitment Agencies&nbsp;<a href="https://gs2partnership.com/sustainability-recruitment-specialists/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Sustainability recruitment agencies</a> play a pivotal role in this paradigm shift. These specialised agencies bridge the gap between companies striving for sustainable recruitment and candidates who share their values. By acting as matchmakers, these agencies ensure that the right talent finds its way to the right organisations, fostering mutual growth and success.
<h3 dir="ltr">Unlocking Interim Sustainability Recruitment</h3>
For businesses looking to implement sustainability initiatives without a long-term commitment, <a href="https://www.gs2partnership.com/contract-and-interim/">interim sustainability recruitment</a> provides a solution. These interim professionals possess the expertise needed to drive sustainability projects forward within a set timeframe, enabling businesses to benefit from their knowledge without the constraints of permanent contracts.
<h5>Start your Sustainability Recruitment Journey Today</h5>
In a world where change is constant and societal responsibility is paramount, sustainable recruitment emerges as a transformative strategy. Beyond just filling roles, it's about cultivating a workforce that embodies a company's values, fosters innovation through diversity, and contributes positively to society. The benefits, from improved retention rates to heightened brand reputation, are clear indicators of the value sustainable recruitment brings to the table. Embrace sustainable recruitment, engage with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gs2partnership.com/sustainability-recruitment-specialists/">sustainability interim recruitment experts</a>, and collaborate with a trusted&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gs2partnership.com/sustainability-recruitment-specialists/">Sustainability Recruitment Agency</a> to ensure your business's success today and in the long run.
 If you need support on your sustainable recruitment journey, please <a href="https://www.gs2partnership.com/contact-us/">get in touch with GS2</a> Partnership.

What is Sustainable Recruitment? A Comprehensive Guide to Building a Lasting Workforce

As climate awareness increases, so does the pressure to become a more sustainable business. We&rsquo;ve all felt it, but with the many operational challenges sustainability brings, it also presents a real opportunity to drive growth. Biodiversity is the latest environmental issue motivating industry leaders to focus on driving sustainable value creation.&nbsp;
Across sectors, the most innovative companies are starting to recognise the role biodiversity plays in supporting both sustainability and their own long-term success. Unlocking the benefits of biodiversity is no longer just a societal obligation but a strategic imperative for businesses of all kinds.&nbsp;
Before we get into why it&rsquo;s so important, let&rsquo;s first clarify what biodiversity actually is&hellip;
What is biodiversity?
Simply put, biodiversity is the variety of all life forms on Earth - from plants and animals right through to fungi, microorganisms and the ecosystems they inhabit. The term isn&rsquo;t just a measure of the number of species that exist, but the diversity within them and the variety of ecosystems on our planet.&nbsp;
Despite being essential to our survival, we&rsquo;re losing species at <a href="https://www.creatingtomorrowsforests.co.uk/blog/why-is-biodiversity-important-to-business">the fastest rate in Earth&rsquo;s history</a>. So, you might already be making moves to become a more sustainable business, but if your environmental initiatives don&rsquo;t factor in biodiversity then you&rsquo;re at risk of falling behind.&nbsp;
Here&rsquo;s why biodiversity is imperative for your businesses.&nbsp;
Future-proofing your business&nbsp;
No matter your industry or specialism, your business relies on natural resources to operate. In fact,&nbsp;
<a href="https://wedocs.unep.org/bitstream/handle/20.500.11822/36251/ERPNC.pdf">$44 trillion of value generation</a> is dependent on nature. Biodiverse ecosystems provide all of the raw materials we use every single day, including water and timber. So sustainable management of these resources is essential for the long-term survival of your company and our planet. Climate change, habitat destruction and species extinction can disrupt supply chains and increase production costs. By proactively assessing and addressing your reliance on biodiversity you&rsquo;ll stabilise your supply chain, improve your resilience and ensure your long-term viability.
Driving innovation&nbsp;
Biodiversity is an incredible <a href="https://www.iges.or.jp/en/pub/t20biodiversity/en">source of inspiration for innovation</a> and technological advancements. Many breakthroughs in medicine and agriculture have only been possible thanks to study and use of biological diversity. Supporting the protection of biodiversity and investing in biotechnology will help you to develop more innovative products and processes - the type your competitors wish they came up with. Benefiting both your bottom line and our environment.&nbsp;
Attracting a loyal audience&nbsp;
Today&rsquo;s <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/jonquilhackenberg/2021/04/29/brands-you-need-to-listen-to-the-conscious-consumer-of-the-future/">conscious consumer</a> is increasingly aware of environmental issues, and that includes biodiversity loss. That means businesses that are able to demonstrate a genuine commitment to biodiversity will win the hearts of more customers. Integrating biodiversity conservation into your strategies and CSR initiatives doesn&rsquo;t just support natural ecosystems, but aligns with societal values. Helping to enhance your brand reputation and generate a loyal audience.
Avoiding risk&nbsp;
It&rsquo;s no surprise that governments around the globe continue to implement <a href="https://iclg.com/practice-areas/environment-and-climate-change-laws-and-regulations/united-kingdom">stricter environmental regulations</a>, with many expanding their policies to protect biodiversity. Those who don&rsquo;t consider our planet in the their business strategy or risk management tools eventually face reputational damage, large penalties and lost trust.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Meanwhile the TNFD are spearheading a movement for voluntary disclosures, which recently attracted the support of 320 companies in over 46 countries, representing $4 trillion in market capitalisation and $14 trillion in assets under management. Organisations such as AstraZeneca, Reckitt, LMVH are part of this support group, following recommendations and guidance to enable businesses and finance to integrate nature into decision making. As a whole, their aim is to support a shift in global financial flows away from nature-negative outcomes and toward nature-positive outcomes, aligned with the Global Biodiversity Framework.
It&rsquo;s clear biodiversity is important for the environment, but it&rsquo;s also critical for your company. Supporting the variety of life on our planet also means fueling innovation, attracting more customers and mitigating risk. That&rsquo;s why incorporating biodiversity conservation into your strategies is the first step towards building a more sustainable future for both your business and our world.&nbsp;
While integrating conservation efforts into your operations is essential, it&rsquo;s not always easy. That&rsquo;s where we come in - a global talent solutions organisation on a mission to connect the people who believe in leaving the world better than they found it. We&rsquo;re a B Corp certified company, supporting businesses like yours to develop impact investing, ESG, sustainability, corporate affairs, communication and responsible functions. We also help to attract, assess, onboard and retain leaders within Executive Teams.&nbsp;
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In our ever growing community, we&rsquo;d love to hear about your sustainability journey so far. Get in touch to discuss with our purpose driven team.

Unlocking the Benefits of Biodiversity: A Strategic Imperative

Welcome to series 2 episode 1 of Better Than We Found It, the go-to podcast for sustainable leadership and purpose-driven business practices.
We&rsquo;re delighted to kick off series 2 with Tony Goldner, Executive Director at Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD).
Tony shares his wealth of knowledge on scaling finance for nature-based investments, being agile and flexible, and enlightens us with how his career path shaped him into the executive leader he is today. We also find out how Tony would like to show the world he&rsquo;s left it better than we found it.&nbsp;
If you&rsquo;re a business considering nature-related risks within your organisation, this is not an episode you&rsquo;d want to miss!&nbsp;
<a style="color: #3598db;" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonygoldner/">Tony Goldner</a>
<a style="color: #3598db;" href="https://www.gs2partnership.com/">GS2 Partnership&nbsp;</a>
<a style="color: #3598db;" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshhuggins/">Josh Huggins - LinkedIn</a>
<a style="color: #3598db;" href="https://tnfd.global/">TNFD Website </a>
Watch the episode here on the following platforms:
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<a style="color: #3598db;" href="https://youtu.be/Xmp3WtI41FE" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Youtube</a>
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<a style="color: #3598db;" href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/6gLA2FPpnbMzQ4tzJrAaUZ?si=c4c8d87c3abb4234" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Spotify</a>
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<a style="color: #3598db;" href="https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/better-than-we-found-it/id1699387432?i=1000652974457" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Apple</a>
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TNFD - Why Nature Matters with Tony Goldner 

In the world of sustainability there's plenty of talk about successful initiatives and strides towards a more sustainable future. But behind the scenes, there's an untold story - one of challenges, opportunities and the daily grind of those navigating a highly complicated landscape. &nbsp;
As Chief Sustainability Officers (CSOs) continue to lead the change towards environmental business practices it's important to shine a light on the complexities they face and recognise the invaluable role they play in driving progress. Acknowledging these challenges and seizing the opportunities they present is the only way we can build the sustainable world we all want to see.&nbsp;
So let&rsquo;s get into the reality of what it&rsquo;s like to be a CSO today, the challenges they face, the opportunities at hand and how embracing innovation can pave the way to a brighter future for both our businesses and our planet&hellip;&nbsp;
&nbsp;
<h2 dir="ltr">Stakeholder alignment</h2>
One of the most critical but often underestimated challenges for CSOs is stakeholder alignment. In the world of sustainability, stakeholders are numerous and diverse - from investors and customers right through to employees and local communities. And each group has its own set of expectations, values and priorities, making alignment a delicate balancing act.
For CSOs, this means constantly juggling the demands of their different stakeholders while staying true to the sustainability goals of their company. Getting it right takes effective communication, transparency and a deep understanding of each group.
&nbsp;
<h3 dir="ltr">Resource constraints</h3>
There&rsquo;s a real opportunity to embed sustainability throughout organisations and make it a responsibility shared by everyone. However this process takes time, energy and resources which today&rsquo;s CSOs often don&rsquo;t have. Despite the growing urgency of sustainability, many companies still only allocate limited resources to their initiatives, leaving CSOs in a difficult position as they find themselves having to do more with less.
From budget limitations to staff shortages, CSOs face resource constraints of all kinds, but from challenge comes innovation. Many CSOs are now finding creative ways to help them use the resources they do have more effectively, this includes forging strategic partnerships, adopting new technology and reconsidering traditional approaches to sustainability.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
<h3 dir="ltr">Changing regulatory landscapes</h3>
As today&rsquo;s word continues to evolve quicker than ever, so do regulatory landscapes - presenting yet another challenge for CSOs. With new environmental regulations and shifting social expectations, staying compliant is a complex and seemingly never-ending task.
It&rsquo;s not just staying up-to-date with existing regulations either, CSOs must anticipate future changes - constantly keeping an eye on the regulatory landscape and quickly adapting their strategies to match. Failure to comply can have serious consequences, from reputational damage to fines and even legal sanctions. So keeping up requires knowledge of legal frameworks, proactive engagement with policymakers and robust compliance mechanisms.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
<h3 dir="ltr">Opportunities for innovation and leadership</h3>
But it&rsquo;s not all bad news. Amidst the challenges, there are plenty of opportunities for innovation and leadership. New technology is one area that presents an opportunity to innovate, as developments such as AI and blockchain make transparency, traceability and accountability easier.&nbsp;
Traditional business relationships are ripe for innovation, too. By forging strategic partnerships with NGOs, governments and other stakeholders, instead of just following how things have previously been done, CSOs can amplify their impact and tackle global challenges more effectively.
As sustainability climbs higher on the priority list for both consumers and investors, companies that prove they care about the environment emerge with a competitive edge. That means CSOs who manage to align sustainability initiatives with business objectives will not only enhance brand reputation, but contribute to their company&rsquo;s long-term financial success.
The path to sustainability is filled with obstacles. But amongst these challenges, there lies huge potential for innovation, leadership and positive change. CSOs who can navigate the complexities of stakeholder alignment, resource constraints and regulatory landscapes will drive positive change and make a lasting impact on both their organisation, and the wider world.
That&rsquo;s where we come in. We&rsquo;re GS2, the global talent solutions organisation here to help you overcome the challenges of sustainability. A B Corp certified company, we support businesses just like yours to develop impact investing, ESG, sustainability, corporate affairs, communication and responsible functions. Helping to attract, assess, onboard and retain leaders within Executive Teams. All because we&rsquo;re on a mission to connect the people who believe in leaving the world better than they found it.&nbsp;
Get in touch to join us on our mission and accelerate your sustainability journey.
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The Untold Story: Challenges and Opportunities Facing CSOs Today

In February, I was a part of the GS2 team that attended the Transition Plan Taskforce event at the London Guildhall. The Transition Plan Taskforce (TPT) was launched by HM Treasury in April 2022 to develop the gold standard for private sector climate transition plans. This event featured open discussion with leaders from government, regulators and business on the importance of having a transition plan and how these plans can drive value creation for businesses across the economy.
Broadly the message from the event was clear, although momentum is building around responsible business and transition plans, this will only be sustained by firm action, and a need to think beyond individual businesses. By moving from plans to pledges, the TPT hopes to see tangible transition plans at every level by the end of 2023, with companies, countries and international institutions setting out their routes towards a net zero future.
As Baroness Penn highlighted in her speech, Transition planning is a crucial part of our path to net zero as it gives the roadmap for where companies are now, where they want to be, and how they can get there.&nbsp;
The message across the event was clear that a significant increase in the quality and quantity of private sector transition plans is required to help enable the UK transition to net zero. As Rachel McEwen said in her speech, although there is not a shortage of climate targets amongst big businesses, such as Science Based Targets; there is a shortage of first-class action plans with tangible targets.&nbsp; For example, In a recent CDP report, of those organisations who have disclosed a transition plan, only 0.4% had created a credible plan.&nbsp; Here is where the Transition Plan Taskforce is aiming to be the gold-standard framework; seeking to provide businesses with the guidance they need to make their targets a reality.&nbsp;
Another important message from the event was the need for businesses to take a long-term view and prioritise sustainability. Many speakers emphasised that short-term thinking and a focus on profits can lead to unsustainable practices and negative impacts on society and the environment. Instead, businesses should consider the long-term impacts of their decisions and strive to create value for all stakeholders, including employees, customers, communities, and the planet.
Overall, the biggest takeaway for me was the message to not be afraid to mess up and create your first transition plan, with individuals across leading businesses stating how important it is to take this first step. Although the first attempt may not be the perfect article, it will move you closer to creating a successful transition plan. At this stage, do not be afraid to reach out to others to seek guidance on this as there is a reassuring level of transparency from other businesses on how to do this successfully. One of my favourite sayings is &lsquo;&rsquo;do not let perfect become the enemy of good&rsquo;&rsquo;, and I think this accurately relates to the message shared from the panels in overcoming the hesitancy to create an initial plan.&nbsp;

Podcast

Better Than We Found It - Episode 4 (Ruth Handcock)

Better Than We Found It - Episode 4 (Ruth Handcock)

More Insights

When Should Workplace Equipment be Replaced for Eco-Friendly Alternatives?

What is Sustainable Recruitment? A Comprehensive Guide to Building a Lasting Workforce

Unlocking the Benefits of Biodiversity: A Strategic Imperative

TNFD - Why Nature Matters with Tony Goldner

The Untold Story: Challenges and Opportunities Facing CSOs Today

The Transition Plan Taskforce event 2023