Replay Available: How HR & Sustainability collaboration drives business resilience

Climate and social crises are no longer distant headlines—they are here, impacting businesses and workforces directly. In this context, collaboration between HR and Sustainability is emerging as a strategic lever for organizational resilience and competitiveness. The “Future Ready” webinar, hosted by AXA Climate School and Uplifting People, brought together leading experts to explore how these two functions can join forces to drive meaningful change.

Why This Webinar Matters

With 3.5 billion employees worldwide, HR professionals have a unique opportunity to design systems that motivate, educate, and hold people accountable—not just for business success, but for societal and environmental impact. But how can HR and Sustainability align their goals to address challenges like decarbonisation, climate adaptation, and employee well-being?

This webinar covers:

• The impact of climate risks on HR policies (e.g., extra leave for low-carbon travel, adapting to heatwaves and extreme weather).
• How to embed sustainability into people systems—motivation, education, and accountability.
• The new green skills employees need to stay competitive and relevant.
• Aligning HR and ESG objectives for a cohesive, future-ready strategy

Key Takeaways from the Webinar

1. New Risks, New Responses
   • Physical risks: Infrastructure failures due to extreme heat (e.g., a New York bridge expanding and jamming in 2024).
   • Psychological risks: PTSD and burnout from repeated climate disasters (e.g., floods in France, wildfires in California).
   • Operational risks: School closures, public transport disruptions—how can HR plan for these scenarios?
2. Employer Branding and Talent Attraction
   • Younger generations are scrutinising companies’ climate commitments. A poor sustainability reputation can hurt recruitment and retention.
   • Solution: Integrate sustainability into internal communications, recruitment, and employer branding.
   • Example: Companies are testing extra paid leave for employees who choose low-carbon travel options (e.g., train over plane).

Featured Speakers

• Cecilia Crossley, Founder, Uplifting People: Expert in driving social and environmental change through HR.
• Antoine Poincaré, CEO, AXA Climate School: Focuses on climate training and adaptation for businesses.
• Jacky Griffiths, Director ESG People & Culture, Grant Thornton: Specializes in integrating ESG into HR and organizational strategies.
• Helen Redfern, Chief People, Communications & Sustainability Officer, Dowley Group: Leads the alignment of people, sustainability, and business strategy at the executive level.

How to Access the Replay 👉 Replay Link

Additional Resources:

• Uplifting People Podcast: How HR Leaders Change the World
• White Paper: Ecological transition : the HR challenges in the UK
• AXA Climate – Adaptation Guide