At Arbo Unie, corporate social responsibility (CSR) is not just an ambition, but an essential part of business operations. As Arbo Unie points out, CSR is at the heart of the organization. This dedication has earned them a spot in the top 5 of MT/Sprout’s SDG400 ranking – an achievement that shows how seriously they take their responsibility. So this is a great time to zoom in on this further. How do they translate CSR into practice? And what role do partners like auticon play in strengthening their impact? In this article we talk to Joy Diekmeijer, sustainability manager at Arbo Unie, about her vision, strategy and the value of social return.
CSR: looking beyond your own organization
“CSR means looking beyond the walls of your own organization,” says Joy. At Arbo Unie, people are central. As a health and safety service provider, they are committed to working with organizations to create a sustainable society in which people continue to work with energy and pleasure. Arbo Unie uses its expertise not only to protect but also to promote health, safety and job satisfaction. With passion, cooperation and impact, they make a difference – for people, companies and society. This not only contributes to the well-being of individuals, but also strengthens the performance of organizations. “People should be able to flourish,” says Joy. “That’s why we support personal choices, both inside and outside of work.” This philosophy that links business results to social commitment is summed up by Arbo Unie as “profit for purpose.
Three Pillars: People, Planet and Prosperity
Arbo Unie’s CSR strategy is built around three pillars: People, Planet, and Prosperity. These pillars are not just ideals, but are linked to concrete goals and measurable results. “Our certification at level 4 of the CSR Performance Ladder shows that we are living up to our ambitions with concrete actions,” says Joy.
People
At Arbo Unie, employees are central. “We ensure that everyone can do their job with energy and passion,” Joy explains. Moreover, they encourage volunteer work, so that employees can also use their skills and knowledge about work and health outside the organization.
Planet
To reduce its carbon footprint, Arbo Unie has developed a focused approach: a climate strategy with science-based targets. For example, they are taking steps to reduce CO₂ emissions through sustainable business operations. This contributes directly to a healthier living environment.
Prosperity
The third pillar focuses on supporting social projects and promoting well-being in society. A striking example of this is the cooperation with auticon.
Social return: impact through partnerships
An important part of CSR at Arbo Unie is social return: realizing social impact by taking responsibility within the chain. The cooperation with auticon fits perfectly with the pillars People and Prosperity. “With auticon, we offer an accessible and effective way to realize social return,” Joy says. auticon has been providing high-quality IT services for 15 years and also helps organizations embrace the value of neurodiversity and become more neuro-inclusive themselves. “Our collaboration goes beyond a business transaction; it is a partnership in which we leverage each other’s strengths.” For example, auticon Netherlands recently organized a full-day program on (neuro)inclusive leadership at Arbo Unie, in which theory and practice were woven together in a beautiful way.
The benefits of cooperation extend throughout the chain. “We link our clients’ social return obligations to auticon’s expertise. This creates added value for all parties involved and increases social impact,” Joy explains. Still, this process has challenges. “Not everyone in the chain is immediately motivated to become more sustainable,” Joy admits. “But by taking responsibility and proactively working together, we make change possible.” His advice? “Don’t wait and see. Take initiative and build sustainable solutions together.”
Sustainability as a future strategy
CSR is not only a means to achieve social impact, but is also a future-oriented business strategy. “For new generations, sustainability is a core value,” Joy explains. “It helps build customer loyalty and attract top talent.” Based on his experience, Joy shares some essential tips for organizations that also want to get started with social return:
Start with conviction
“Make sustainability align with your mission and vision. Do it from intrinsic motivation, not just to meet requirements.”
Involve your employees
“Make sure colleagues are enthusiastic and actively contribute. Good guidance is indispensable for this.”
Focus on impact
“Focus on areas where you can make a real difference. At Arbo Unie, our strength lies in People, but we also continue to contribute to Planet and Prosperity.”
Organizations, like Arbo Unie, that invest in corporate social responsibility and social return stand out in the market. By working with partners and implementing a clear strategy, you can not only meet legal requirements, but also contribute to an inclusive and future-proof society.
Wondering how auticon can help your organization? Discover with us the potential of neurodiversity and inclusion for your company!
