A community of practice (CoP) can be defined as ‘a group of people who share a common set of problems, or an interest in a topic and who come together to fulfil both individual and group goals’.
In March this year Sodexo, in partnership with FuturePlanet, launched its community of practice for sustainability leads from its clients and suppliers in both the public and the private sector. The Sodexo community of practice has three intentions:
- Be a safe space to come together as equals and to support each other as individuals
- Share best practice and knowledge on achieving net zero, nature and social impact goals
- To foster collaboration with commercial partners who have shared goals, climate and nature related risks
Members have shared a multitude of challenges, solutions and ideas that can be used to ‘transform’ their organisations and achieve net zero, nature and social goals. These have been reviewed, sorted and prioritised by each of the participants.
Themes and solutions shared include carbon reduction particularly scope 3, supply chain engagement assessments with a particular focus on diverse supply chains, employee and wider stakeholder engagement.
Claire Atkins Morris, sustainability director for Sodexo UK & Ireland said: “We recognise that with our closest partners, we can play a role in leading adaptation, mitigation and transformation. I have thoroughly enjoyed the roundtables particularly connecting at a personal level, something so many events I have attended are missing.
“It is so important for change-makers to connect regularly to drive ambitious change in their respective organisations. By working together, sharing resources, co-creating solutions and amplifying our influence, we believe we can tackle the complexities of ESG, using anchor institute mentality to create impact in the communities we live, work and serve.”