At the University of Birmingham, we’re delighted to be taking part in Responsible Business Week (Monday 23 April to Friday 27 April 2018). The campaign, led by Business in the Community (BITC), celebrates the brighter side of business by sharing success stories of how businesses of all sizes are making a difference to people’s lives, the community and the environment.
We’re dedicated to our role as a responsible business. Our commitment to widening access has been highlighted through UCAS data, which shows that in 2017 we made more offers to BME UCAS applicants than any other UK institution. Throughout the design process of our new Green Heart, the project team have sought to create a sustainable, natural and environmentally-friendly landscape; both for people and wildlife. And for more than a century, our research has contributed to our local community, the region and the world. As well as all of this, our campus is open to all, with museums and art galleries to explore and free events to attend.
In partnership with Lloyds Banking Group, in July 2017 we set up the Lloyds Banking Group Centre for Responsible Business. The Centre seeks to understand and critique irresponsible businesses, map the challenges of responsible business, understand the obstacles in the way of being responsible and find solutions in overcoming them. During the week the Centre will be publishing a brochure to highlight the work that they do to support businesses to act responsibly – keep a look out on our social media for more information.
To celebrate Responsible Business Week, we’ll be drawing on the wealth of knowledge that our academics have. Over on the Business School Blog we’ll be covering a range of topics that are directly influenced by responsible business. On our social media, our experts will be sharing their thoughts on what responsible business means to them and for the community.
Want to get involved? Have your say on our Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn polls or comment on our blogs with your thoughts.
Ian Thomson, Professor of Accounting and Sustainability, said: “It is rare to get a moment to pause and reflect on the purpose, value and consequences of our work. Responsible Business Week is an opportunity to step back and reset our business responsibility compass, share inspiring stories and learn lessons from when things have gone wrong as a result of business irresponsibility.”
All businesses across all sectors have the opportunity to make a difference which will contribute to and help shape the future. Whether it’s developing the local community or taking steps towards environmentally-friendly processes, we’re all responsible for being responsible.
To find out more about Responsible Business Week 2018 visit the BITC website or search for the hashtag #RBweek.