Companies are faced with the challenge of adapting their human resource strategies to the demands of the modern workforce for ethics, sustainability, meaningful work, diversity, equity, and inclusion. As a response, sustainable human resource management is emerging, becoming an effective model of change for companies that want to attract and retain top talent.
In an era where job seekers are increasingly environmentally conscious, a commitment to sustainable practices places companies ahead of the competition. Younger people actively seek employers who operate in line with their values, including a commitment to sustainability. Sustainable human resource practices contribute to a positive workplace culture that fosters employee retention and greater inclusion. When people feel that their employer cares about the environment and their well-being, they are more likely to be engaged.
Sustainability in the field of human resource management (hereinafter sustainable HRM), from energy-efficient office spaces to reduced paper usage and other environmentally friendly practices, often also brings financial benefits for companies by reducing costs. Sustainable HR practices also contribute to the positive image of the company and align with broader corporate social responsibility initiatives, helping to build an attractive and reputable employer brand.
Sustainable HRM: More than just turning off the lights and recycling
Sustainable HRM is about more than just turning off the lights and promoting recycling. It is about people – employees – and how we can make the work environment sustainable for them in the long term.
Many researchers accept Ehnert’s definition, according to which sustainable HRM is defined as the adoption of strategies and practices that enable the achievement of economic, social, and ecological goals, with impact within and outside the organization over a long-term period, while controlling unintended side effects and negative feedback (Ehnert et al., 2016).
Sustainable human resource practices contribute to a positive workplace culture that fosters employee retention and greater inclusion.
Sustainable HRM makes an important contribution to the sustainable development of a company, as this concept of sustainability goes beyond environmental and economic sustainability and includes other issues, including equity, employee participation, health and well-being, employability, and employee development.
