Christian Aid launch sustainability initiative
A group for business leaders working in sustainable ways has been launched
A new group for business leaders who are committed to working in sustainable ways, both in the UK and globally, has been launched by Christian Aid.
The Salt Business Network aims to support leaders of large and small companies in making their businesses more sustainable in line with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. These have set ambitious targets to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure prosperity for all. Financial support will also be provided to entrepreneurs in developing countries through a special Christian Aid fund.
The pledges Salt Network members have made include assessing the risk of modern-day slavery and building staff awareness on the subject. Members will explore three themes a year, the first being ‘business and human rights’. Future themes are likely to include good investment, creating a value-based business and tackling inequality.
Additionally, Salt members are pledging to help small and growing enterprises in the developing world to expand and become sustainable. Many of the businesses that will be helped are led by women, a number of whom have been identified for their great transformational potential.
Helen Howe, Christian Aid’s Salt Network manager, said: ‘As the UN rightly points out, responsible business and investment are both essential if we want to see this type of transformational change in the world. Christian Aid is responding to this by seeking to build ever closer relationships with the private sector and inviting business leaders to work with us, and with each other, to create a unique movement that unites the strengths of faith and business to tackle global poverty. This network will be motivated to learn about, support and engage in sustainable solutions for the world’s poorest communities, reframing what it means to be in business.’
