Sustainability: More Than Just a Buzzword

Let’s face it—when most people hear “sustainability,” they think of reusable shopping bags, switching off lights, or that one colleague who really hates printers.

Sure, those habits help—but sustainability goes far beyond small swaps. It’s about how we treat our planet, our people, and how we run our business responsibly. That’s what ESG is all about: Environmental, Social, and Governance.

E is for Environmental
Yes, it includes recycling—but it’s also about reducing carbon emissions, switching to renewable energy, driving electric vehicles, and printing less. Every choice counts.

S is for Social
This is about people, not just policies. It means building inclusive teams, supporting local communities, investing in development, and making sure everyone feels they belong.

G is for Governance
It’s doing the right thing—even when no one’s looking. From ethical sourcing and clear policies to accountability and transparency, governance builds long-term trust.

Why it Matters

In the UK, sustainability is no longer optional—especially when working with the public sector. Government procurement rules, like PPN 06/21, now require suppliers bidding for major contracts to submit a Carbon Reduction Plan and public sector buyers increasingly score tenders based on social value and environmental impact.

With customers—like the NHS—pushing toward Net Zero targets, suppliers are expected to support these goals or risk falling behind.

For HC21, strong ESG practices not only reflect our values—they also build trust, boost credibility, and give us a competitive edge in a sector where transparency and long-term resilience truly matter. We will be announcing some exciting news about out sustainability efforts in the coming weeks. Please watch out.

If you wish to get involved or have some great ideas please reach out to Kinga Jurusik @ ukcompliance@hc21.group