The Institute for Healthy Urban Living (IHUL) at the University of Westminster and the Institute of Directors (IoD) India have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to work together to support environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues within the corporate world. The collaboration is set to bring key stakeholders together to explore urban development, corporate social responsibility and sustainable infrastructure, with the drive to create a more sustainable world.
The two organisations signed the MoU at an international meeting at the University of Westminster, where they discussed innovative approaches to enterprise and corporate success. The memorandum agreed a range of events, conferences and webinars to discuss key sustainability issues such as corporate governance, social cohesion and investment trends in urban development.
This work was kicked off at Westminster with a session in collaboration with global energy logistics group TRISTAR titled Cultivating Innovation and Sustainability as Core Boardroom Priorities. The programme brought together global leaders, economists and policymakers to define the future of corporate strategy.
The institutions are committed to collaborate on white papers, case studies and research projects, and aim to establish an India-UK ESG working group to identify corporate investments as well as sponsorships in urban health, sustainability and regenerative practices.
The MoU aims to facilitate dialogue on ESG topics between academia and business communities in India and the UK through the organisation of business delegations and investment promotion, reciprocal visits, networking events and expert forums to build engagement between corporate leaders, policymakers and academics.
In addition, the IOD and the IHUL will design and deliver Executive Training and Certification Programmes in leadership and boardroom matters covering corporate governance, urban sustainability, digital governance and regulatory frameworks. This will include the launch of an International Fellowship Programme on ESG for corporate leaders to enhance expertise in sustainability and responsible business practices.
About the MoU Professor Brendon Noble, Director of the IHUL, said: “There has never been a more important time to address environmental, social and governance issues in the corporate world. We are delighted to work with our friends at the IOD India on this targeted approach to contributing to commercial success through the support of environmental and human health and wellbeing. Regenerative practice and responsible leadership can go hand in hand with commercial success, leading to a healthy planet, improved social cohesion and a happy healthy workforce at all levels within an organisation.”
Manoj K. Raut, CEO and Secretary General of the IOD India, added: “At IOD, we have always believed that learning and leadership go hand in hand. Our collaboration with the IHUL exemplifies this belief of advancing ESG for corporate leaders to enhance expertise in sustainability and responsible business practices and blending academic rigour with boardroom experience to nurture future-ready leaders who can navigate the unpredictable, the complex and the global.”
This partnership directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 3: Good Health and Wellbeing, 4: Quality Education and 17: Partnerships for the Goals. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.
Learn more about the Institute for Healthy Urban Living at the University of Westminster.
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