Social sustainability def
Refers to the wellbeing of individuals and communities.
It focuses on creating equitable societies where everyone has access to essential resources/services and opportunities.
What makes up of social sustainability pillar
Inequality, poverty, education, healthcare and human rights.
Key areas to address when considering poverty
Equity and social justice-( ensuring everyone has equal access to resources by tackling inequalities affecting marginalised groups)
Quality of life- Access to basic needs e.g shelter, food allowing more productive, healthy lives
Community development- Invest in infrastructure, creating jobs and foster social cohesion (connections and shared values)
Inclusive policies- government should implement policies considering the perspective of those in poverty.
Human rights- Protect individuals from discrimination
What is a marginalised group
social groups facing discrimination
Inequality focus
All people have access to opportunities and resources, regardless of backgrounds.
3 types of inequality
Economic
Social
Political
What does Economic inequality consist of
Income disparity- results in unequal access to services
Unequal wealth- poverty and limited social mobility (movement of families in social hierarchy)
Social mobility influences life chances
What does Social inequality consist of
Discrimination- based on race, gender, ethnicity
Unequal access to services- education, healthcare, social protection
What is social protection
policies designed to reduce poverty e.g income support, healthcare, maternity leave
Unequal access can occur due to barriers to eligibility causing inequality.
What does political inequality consist of
Barriers to participation- No voice for some groups
Unequal representation- policies favouring represented groups
Why we have labour practices
Important for social sustainability.
Good labour practices
Fair labour practices- promoting workers rights, safe conditions, fair remuneration
Addressing Modern slavery- Forced labour, human trafficking etc Other examples include debt bonded labour (forced to work to pay off a debt)
Human rights and dignity- treated with respect
Community and economic development- This can be paying fair wages and good working conditions. Contribute to community wellbeing.
Policy and regulation- enforce laws and reg protecting workers rights and fight modern slavery.
Safe working environment consideration- Physical safety
Protective equipment
Have safety protocols and policies
Training for emergencies
Safe working environment consideration- Health and hygiene
Proper sanitation and ventilation
Monitor exposure to harmful substances
Medical care access
Safe working environment consideration- Workspace design
Aim to minimise stress and potential injuries
Breaks for staff
Ergonomic furniture and tools (support function and comfort for human use)
Safe working environment consideration- Mental health
Create supportive environment-
Promote work-life balance
Provide access to mental health resources e.g counselling
Safe working environment consideration- work-life balance
Organisation ensure employees have a healthy balance with work and personal life
Flex working hours
remote working
Safe working environment consideration-Inclusive support culture
Promote diversity and inclusion
Provide opportunities for personal growth
Safe working environment consideration- Employee engagement
Engaged employees more likely to be productive and satisfied.
Therefore, organisations should
Reward and recognise achievements
Opportunities for career development
Create collaborative/ positive workspace
Workplace diversity benefit (point of it)
Contributes to overall social sustainability of organisation.
workplace diversity advantages
Can help to reduce poverty and improve mental health- no one is neglected or disadvantaged so can access education etc
Promotes ideas- diverse teams bring wider perspectives leading to creativity and innovation
Improve employee satisfaction
Build reputation as reflects the community better.
Access to broader talent pool from promoting diversity (don’t judge or dismiss anyone)
How data protection contributes to social sustainability
Improves social well-being.
This is because it ensures personal info is handled responsibly showing commitment to ethical practices.