The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) present a comprehensive roadmap for a better and more sustainable future for all.
Embedded within this agenda are not just aspirations for governments and civil society, but also opportunities for businesses to play a crucial role in driving positive change. As global citizens, it is imperative for businesses of all types to align their operations and strategies with these goals to contribute to a more equitable, prosperous, and sustainable world.
The UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals
Goal 1. End poverty everywhere
Goal 2. End hunger, achieve food security and promote sustainable agriculture
Goal 3. Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all
Goal 4. Ensure inclusive and equitable education for all
Goal 5. Achieve gender equality
Goal 6. Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all
Goal 7. Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all
Goal 8. Promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth and decent work for all
Goal 9. Build resilient infrastructure, promote sustainable industrialization and foster innovation
Goal 10. Reduce inequality within and among countries
Goal 11. Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable
Goal 12. Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns
Goal 13. Take action to combat climate change and its impacts
Goal 14. Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and life under water
Goal 15. Protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems and life on land
Goal 16. Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development
Goal 17. Strengthen global partnership for sustainable development
The Importance of Business Engagement with the SDGs
Businesses are key stakeholders in the achievement of the SDGs due to their significant impact on society and the environment through their operations, supply chains, and products or services. By integrating sustainability principles into their business models, companies can not only mitigate risks but also unlock new opportunities for growth, innovation, and long-term value creation. Here’s why businesses should prioritize the SDGs:
1. Enhancing Reputation and Brand Value: Companies that actively support the SDGs demonstrate their commitment to corporate social responsibility and sustainability, enhancing their reputation and brand value among consumers, investors, and other stakeholders.
2. Accessing New Markets and Customers: Addressing sustainable development challenges can open up new markets and customer segments, especially in areas related to renewable energy, clean technologies, and ethical consumption.
3. Managing Risks and Building Resilience: By aligning with the SDGs, businesses can identify and mitigate potential risks related to environmental degradation, social unrest, and regulatory changes, thus enhancing their resilience to future shocks.
4. Attracting and Retaining Talent: Today’s workforce increasingly values purpose-driven work and seeks employment opportunities with companies that prioritize sustainability. Aligning with the SDGs can help attract and retain top talent, driving employee engagement and productivity.
5. Driving Innovation and Efficiency: Pursuing the SDGs can spur innovation within organizations, leading to the development of new products, services, and business models that are more resource-efficient, environmentally friendly, and socially inclusive.
TEAM Group’s Commitment to Sustainability
As an industrial cleaning provider and facility manager, TEAM Group recognizes its role and responsibility in contributing to sustainable development. Through its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives, TEAM Group is dedicated to supporting five key SDGs: Gender Equality (#5), Decent Work & Economic Growth (#8), Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure (#9), Responsible Consumption & Production (#12), and Climate Action (#13).
Gender Equality (#5): TEAM Group is committed to fostering diversity and inclusivity within its organization at all levels. By providing equal opportunities for women and promoting a culture of respect and fairness, TEAM Group contributes to the empowerment of all individuals regardless of gender.
Decent Work & Economic Growth (#8): TEAM Group prioritizes the creation of safe, fair, and fulfilling employment opportunities. Through training and career development initiatives, the company ensures that its workforce is equipped with the skills and resources necessary for long-term success, thereby supporting economic growth and prosperity.
Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure (#9): Continuous improvement lies at the heart of TEAM Group’s operations. By investing in resilient infrastructure, fostering innovation, and adapting to industry changes, the company remains at the forefront of delivering world-class industrial cleaning and facility management services.
Responsible Consumption & Production (#12): TEAM Group is committed to responsible management and mitigation of environmental impacts. By implementing waste reduction measures, recycling initiatives, and sustainable practices, the company minimizes its ecological footprint and promotes sustainable consumption patterns.
Climate Action (#13): TEAM Group recognizes the urgency of addressing climate change and its impacts. By setting ambitious targets for emissions reduction and implementing measures to limit environmental degradation, the company strives to contribute to a low-carbon future and mitigate the effects of climate change.
The UN Sustainable Development Goals provide a holistic framework for businesses to align their operations with global sustainability priorities. By embracing these goals and integrating them into their strategies, businesses can not only drive positive social and environmental impact but also unlock new opportunities for growth and innovation. As exemplified by TEAM Group, commitment to sustainability is not just a moral imperative but also a strategic imperative for long-term success and resilience in an increasingly interconnected world.
TEAM’s ESG Report for 2023
TEAM’s very first ESG Report marks a significant milestone in our commitment to sustainability.
Embracing the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), TEAM has placed focus on five key SDGs, emphasizing both internal impact and collaboration with clients. Notable milestones of the past year include initiatives like TEAM Green, ISN, and progress towards ISO14001 and Ecovadis. Our report highlights the establishment of BOSS Sustainability, contributions to TEAM Trees, sustainability training, and the integration of EV charging stations and fleet.
This year’s thematic focus on the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge underscores TEAM’s dedication to addressing pressing environmental issues, particularly impacting indigenous communities like the Gwich’in. Through such annual themes, TEAM aims to raise awareness and drive action on critical sustainability challenges.
Check out our ESG Report for 2023.