Let’s Get Social: Why the “S” in ESG is a Business Game-Changer
When people talk about ESG, the “E” for Environment usually dominates the conversation. Carbon reduction, net zero strategies, and climate action plans are rightly front of mind. But at Green Circle Solutions, we believe the Social pillar of ESG—the “S”—is equally critical. In fact, it can often deliver the quickest wins for your business.
Why Social Sustainability Matters
Social sustainability is about people—your employees, customers, suppliers, and the wider communities you touch. It covers areas such as:
- Employee wellbeing and mental health
- Equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI)
- Fair wages and supply chain ethics
- Community engagement and volunteering
- Health and safety
- Training, learning and development
These aren’t just “nice to haves.” They are powerful drivers of performance and reputation. Organisations that invest in the “S” benefit in multiple ways:
- Attract and retain top talent: Today’s workforce—especially younger generations—are motivated by purpose as much as pay. A clear commitment to wellbeing, diversity and inclusion makes you an employer of choice.
- Stronger tender outcomes: Many procurement processes now allocate significant points to social value. A defined social sustainability strategy can be the difference between winning and losing contracts.
- Improved ESG ratings: Rating agencies, investors and lenders look beyond environmental performance. Demonstrating social policies and impact can boost your scores and open up new funding opportunities.
- Better brand reputation: Companies that prioritise fairness, equity and positive community impact are more trusted by their customers, clients and stakeholders.
- Increased innovation and engagement: Employees who feel included, supported and valued are more likely to contribute ideas, solve problems creatively, and champion your organisation.
Start with the Low-Hanging Fruit
One of the myths around ESG is that it requires huge investment or complex systems to get started. In reality, you’d be amazed at how much progress can be made by addressing the low-hanging fruit. For example:
- Conducting a staff survey on wellbeing and acting on the findings
- Setting up a green team or ESG committee with cross-department representation
- Introducing flexible working policies or wellbeing days
- Running training on inclusive leadership or unconscious bias
- Partnering with local schools, charities or community groups for volunteering projects
- Ensuring supplier codes of conduct are aligned to ethical and fair practices
Each of these actions may seem small, but collectively they build momentum, demonstrate intent, and deliver measurable value for your business.
How GCS Can Help
At GCS, we go beyond environmental consultancy. We help organisations develop their social sustainability strategy, set clear goals, and create action plans that are realistic, measurable and impactful.
Our ESG Consultant, Sarah Atkinson, leads on this work. With a background in both communications and sustainability, Sarah has supported listed companies, SMEs, charities and community groups to embed social sustainability into their operations. She understands how to turn principles into practice—and how to ensure those actions drive business results.
Sarah is always happy to have an informal conversation with organisations exploring their next steps in ESG. Whether you’re just beginning, or ready to take your “S” to the next level, she can help you design a roadmap that fits your culture, resources and ambitions.
Join Our Upcoming Lunch & Learn
We’re also excited to announce our next Lunch and Learn session:
🌍 Beyond Environment: What the S in ESG Means for Business
📅 Tuesday, 7 October 2025
🕐 1:00 – 1:30 PM (online)
👉 Register here
In this dynamic 30-minute session, we’ll demystify the Social pillar of ESG: what it covers, why it matters, and how to turn it into a strategic advantage. From employee wellbeing and community engagement to supply chain ethics and DEI, you’ll leave with practical tips and quick wins to either get started or level up your social strategy—whatever your size or sector.
Whether you’re just beginning your ESG journey or looking to make your social impact more meaningful, this session will equip you with insights to make the “S” your superpower.
Let’s get social. Because building a fairer, healthier, and more inclusive world isn’t just good for people—it’s good for business.