In June, Bournemouth University (BU) research centre, The Centre for Sustainable Business Transformations (CSBT) hosted a sustainability expo.
The expo was made up of academics, business owners, employees of government agencies, and broader stakeholders. It addressed the need for businesses to prioritise research, knowledge exchange and sustainability.
The research centre (CSBT) supports the integration of sustainable-focused approaches in businesses. The event highlighted why businesses should align with the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which can help boost economic growth.
Dr Mili Shrivastava, Deputy Head of the CSBT said: "Sustainable workplaces don't just shape a better future; they empower a more efficient and thriving present."
The expo showcased interdisciplinary research and how it can help businesses, the government, and broader society implement tailored business models. Sustainable models will help businesses generate profitability and success, in alignment with the SDGs.
Keynote speakers at the event showcased various projects, such as BU's new Continuing Professional Development and Training (CPD) course on supply chain management.
Professor Davide Parrilli, Lecturer in Regional Economic Development, commented: “We are delighted to be offering this new CPD course. This course will provide participants with the skills and knowledge they need to manage business supply chains effectively and help organisations achieve higher economic performance.”
The expo further displayed the benefits of businesses working in co-creation with students. The research centre showed how student-led advisories have been critical in offering solutions to sustainable challenges faced by local businesses. The centre is supported by grants from local councils, organisations, and national/international businesses.
Student advisors are supported by academics experienced in championing industry-led collaborations across a broad scope of industries. The expertise at the centre has enabled students to pursue research into multi-disciplinary themes such as sustainable strategies, business models, technologies, the circular economy, and other key issues.
At the expo, CSBT announced their latest continued professional development (CPD) course starting this September, Strategic Tools for Businesses in Competitive Supply Chains. This course will help businesses identify and adopt strategies that can help them overcome challenges such as increased costs and increase efficiencies.