In this live chat we’ll be discussing sustainability in the workplace. While the term is more often applied to big business, adopting a sustainable approach can also encourage growth in a small company.
A broad definition of business sustainability is resilience over time. To achieve sustainablity, businesses must consider their environmental accountability (which SMEs might approach by becoming more energy-efficient); economic efficiency (innovation, prosperity and productivity) and social equity (how your business impacts the local community and your employees’ wellbeing).
In this Q&A we’ll discuss the environmental impact of your workplace. So how eco-friendly is your business? Does your team use resources responsibly or is there more you could do? Which are the best gadgets for making your office more energy efficient? There are many apps available for tracking your energy use or controlling the temperature of a room remotely.
Making your business more sustainable is also about improving staff wellbeing. With 11.3 million working days lost to stress, depression or anxiety in 2013-2014, the effects of overwork are clear. What can be done to ensure healthy habits and a better work/life balance at your office? How can you support staff to work more efficiently and increase your company’s output?
Our panel of experts will be on hand to answer your questions and offer advice. The Q&A will take place in the comments section below from 1-2.30pm on Thursday 1 October. To post your questions, create a free Guardian account, or log in using your Facebook or Google+ profile to comment.
Alternatively, tweet @GdnSmallBiz with your questions, or email them to smallbusinessnetwork@theguardian.com and we’ll post them for you.
Comments are currently open and we welcome questions in advance.
John Alker is director of policy and communications at the UK Green Building Council, a charity and membership organisation that campaigns for a sustainable built environment.
Paul Swift is a consultant with the Carbon Trust, an independent organisation that aims to accelerate the move to a sustainable, low carbon economy. Paul helps companies report their carbon footprint and set themselves targets. He also specialises in employee engagement and reducing the energy consumption of buildings.
David D’Souza is head of the London region for the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD).
Laura Hield-Ryder is head of SME marketing at E.ON. She’s responsible for bringing energy saving products for small businesses to market.
Jonathan Swan is policy and research manager for Working Families, a charity that helps parents achieve a better work-life balance. Working Families runs National Work Life Week and Go Home on Time Day, both aimed at promoting wellbeing.
Helena Mann is operations manager at Crunch Accounting, an accountancy firm and small business that provides a range of wellness initiatives to its staff.
Natashia Variava is an HR specialist and founder of The People Team. She helps small businesses with all aspects of HR.
Lerryn Whitfield is the owner and director of Lerryn’s cafe, in Peckham, London, where she takes simples steps to conserve energy.
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