Returning to the office sustainably

As a result of the pandemic, companies have had to adjust their work models and foresee that the future of work may differ from what was pre-pandemic. As lockdowns ease, we now have the opportunity to reimagine our workspaces and company cultures.

As a result of decreased travelling and consumption throughout the pandemic, carbon emissions have fallen, and air quality has improved. Digitalisation has spread across all industries, which has helped maintain efficiency and replicate some essential elements of in-person communication. Some of us have found that remote working provides flexibility and empowerment; others can’t wait to return to offices.

It is now coming close to the time when we need to make intelligent decisions about defining and executing a sustainable return to work. In order to do so sustainably, we need to consider our teams, environment and our business goals.

Is your company a disruptor or a constructor?

Disruptive companies enter markets to challenge and often replace industry incumbents. While they offer great scale and opportunities, they might highlight a risk to established public services if not executed properly.

Take, for example, Uber.

The gig giant’s offer was appealing to both its drivers and customers. Customers could order a taxi which cost less than most alternatives and arrived quicker. Drivers could work on a self-employed basis from anywhere, whenever they liked and use their own car.

Uber’s business model was based on recruiting many drivers to meet increased demand, at no additional cost to the company. The company started off in San Francisco and after gaining popularity and investor backing, expanded globally.

Although a success story, Uber has faced many regulatory hurdles around the world. The company has also been criticised by the taxi industry and endured backlash from both its drivers and consumers.

Growing Nigeria’s tech talent ecosystem

Nigeria has the youngest population in the world, which can reach 733 million by 2100. It also has the most prominent tech ecosystem in Africa. Yet, there is a shortage of tech talent.

According to the UN, countries with rapidly growing numbers of young consumers will be scarce in the next century. Estimates show that there will be a global shortage of more than 85 million tech workers by 2030 – an excellent opportunity for Nigeria to grow its tech talent; however, currently, 33% of the Nigerian population is unemployed.

8 London-based impact tech companies to follow

Last year, the UK ranked third in the world for impact tech investment. During the first three months of 2021, venture capital firms have invested $7.6 billion in UK tech.

Any company that addresses any one of the UN Sustainable Development Goals is categorised as impact tech, which is now one of the most sought-after investment areas.

We have selected eight very impressive London-based impact tech companies working to improve our cities, transport, food and health. Each business is sustainable and is working towards achieving our target of reaching net-zero by 2050.