SME insight: A broader view on sustainability - Season Four of the Sustainable Business Podcast by Novuna Business Finance

The latest episodes of the ‘The Sustainable Business Podcast’ by Novuna Business Finance, is available to stream and download. Part Two of the series, “The Green Dilemma: Investment, Cost or Burden", explores the broader meaning of sustainability through the experiences of three different businesses - a health food shop, utility provider and insurance company.

The new podcasts compliment the recently published report - The Small Business Perspective on Sustainability: Investment, Cost or Burden – Part Two. Whilst addressing common small business concerns such as funding and Net Zero targets, the report also broadens the definition of sustainability to include aspects such as staff welfare, inclusivity, fairness and community well-being.

Series Four, is made up of three episodes and features.

• Episode 1: Alwen Marshall Lewis, founder of Iechyd Da, gives an insight into her practical approach to sustainability. She discusses the small, impactful changes like eliminating single-use plastics and prioritising local, ethical suppliers and how her shop not only promotes eco-friendly practices but also strengthens community connections.
• Episode 2: Steve Wardlaw, CEO of Emerald Life, discusses the importance of making the insurance industry more inclusive and accessible for underrepresented groups, particularly the LGBTQ+ community and non-traditional families. He highlights the industry's legacy issues, like outdated policy wording and unfair pricing, and shares how businesses can work to address these challenges.
• Episode 3: Hannah Egerton, owner of Edgie Eats Bakery, talks about the impact of local sustainability efforts. By sourcing local produce and implementing eco-friendly practices, Hannah discusses the importance of community resilience, and how she views sustainability as integral to the future viability of the business.