We recently hosted a webinar together with Corporate Regeneration. You can watch the recording and access the slides (below) here:
You can access the slides here:
And a summary of the key points:
The webinar presents an innovative approach to corporate governance by introducing "Regeneration Boards" that integrate the voices of youth and nature into the decision-making process. This model aims to foster a more sustainable and regenerative future for businesses and society. Here are the key points and outcomes discussed in the webinar:
Overcoming Barriers to Climate Governance
At the outset, the webinar addresses the challenges of effective climate governance on corporate boards. Traditional governance structures often lack diverse perspectives, particularly from youth and nature stakeholders. To tackle this, advisory boards incorporating these voices are proposed. The mission of Corporate Regeneration is highlighted, focusing on amplifying youth and nature's input to drive regenerative economic practices. This initiative aligns with sustainable development principles, ensuring that present needs are met without compromising the ability of future generations.
The Role of Youth and Nature in Decision-Making
Involving younger generations and nature in corporate decisions is crucial for creating a regenerative future. Youth activism and scientific findings are pivotal in driving change within corporations. The concept of corporate regeneration seeks to integrate these voices into governance, promoting a more inclusive decision-making process. The implementation of impact governance introduces alternative governance bodies that address social goals shared by all stakeholders, emphasizing the need for systemic change.
Structure and Function of Regeneration Boards
Regeneration Boards are designed to bring key stakeholders together to challenge, inspire, and define company strategies addressing Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) challenges annually. These boards are composed of diverse members, including Guardians responsible for specific domains like intergenerational solidarity and planetary boundaries. This structure ensures accountability and the development of actionable plans that go beyond financial metrics.
Impact Governance - a model
A unique governance model is introduced, where Guardians representing various company aspects convene to make decisions through multiple discussion rounds. This method promotes a holistic approach to issues, ensuring that all perspectives are considered before reaching a decision. The process involves each Guardian presenting their advice from a specific lens, co-building solutions, and final checks. This model also integrates stakeholder feedback through assemblies, enhancing transparency and accountability.
The Guardians within the regeneration board play diverse roles in sustainability, intergenerational solidarity, and social equity decisions during board meetings. Their involvement emphasizes the importance of diverse stakeholders in decision making. This approach underscores the significance of intergenerational solidarity and the active participation of young voices in governance.
Giving a Voice to Nature
Incorporating nature into the ESG agenda is seen as the next step in enhancing governance and sustainability efforts. The involvement of intergenerational and external stakeholders in CSR discussions boosts creativity and energy, providing valuable insights for companies.
What does it mean in practice - a testimony
The guest testimonial reflects on their transition from a long career in the food service industry to focusing on governance, ESG, and purpose after retirement. They stress the importance of embedding a strong purpose in a company's DNA and the need for young people to understand and address societal complexities. Corporate Regeneration is highlighted for their visionary approach to integrating ESG principles and involving youth in decision-making processes.
Challenges and opposition faced
The webinar discusses the resistance faced by new generations when initiating changes. Overcoming these challenges requires fearlessness and continuity in corporate transformations. The speaker emphasizes the importance of trust and seeking advice in navigating complex corporate environments.
Youth Engagement and Corporate Responsibility
The engagement of the younger generation in sustainability and corporate responsibility is a recurring theme. The speaker expresses optimism about young people's involvement in driving change and the crucial role of corporations in transforming the economy towards a regenerative model. The discussion also touches on the naming of 'Corporate Regeneration,' emphasizing the goal of creating impactful change by bringing generations together.
Importance of Diverse Advisory Boards
The webinar concludes by highlighting the importance of having experienced individuals with diverse backgrounds on advisory boards for effective governance and innovation. The inclusion of company board members in regeneration boards is crucial for making significant decisions. Audience participation is encouraged, inviting further collaboration and sharing contact information for continued engagement.
In summary, the webinar underscores the transformative potential of integrating youth and nature into corporate governance through Regeneration Boards. This approach aims to foster a regenerative economy, ensuring sustainable and inclusive decision-making processes that benefit current and future generations.
You can also see the compiled Q&A from the webinar here.