BAM Performance Management SIG Event Report - Sustainability-related performance: Pathways to Net Zero
On the 15th of September 2022, the Performance Management Special Interest Group (SIG) of the British Academy of Management (BAM) gathered at the University of York, and online, to showcase emerging research at the forefront of sustainability-related business performance. Hosted by Dr Luisa Huatuco of the University of York’s School of Business and Society, and Professor Jonathan Liu, the Chair of this SIG, the “Sustainability-related Performance: Pathways to Net Zero” BAM event brought together world-class thought leaders for an engaging and enlightening conference.
Representing some of the United Kingdom’s top universities, the events speakers provided an outstanding example of the BAM’s leading role in the development of sustainable business futures. Kickstarting the day’s presentations, Professor Steve Evans of the University of Cambridge provided a compelling account of the leading practice-based manufacturing research being undertaken by his team at the Centre for Industrial Sustainability. Showcasing the pitfalls of current manufacturing systems, Prof. Evans outlined concreate, practice-based strategies to overcome an abundance of systemic inefficiencies, whilst also generating profit, and creating a sustainable future for society.
Providing an engaging Zoom presentation, Professor Sonal Choudhary of the University of York outlined her vision for UK food systems in 2050 and the future research needs to achieve a sustainable, Net Zero food system. An informative speech, Prof. Choudhary highlighted the importance of incorporating the concepts of circular economy, green operations, agri-food supply chain resilience and food waste reduction practices into our current food system if we are to achieve Net Zero by 2050.
Following a highly thought-provoking morning of presentations, the afternoon offered two workshops. Workshop 1: “Low Carbon Infrastructure and Business Growth: Sectoral Analysis” was hosted by Dr Luisa Huatuco of the University of York, whilst workshop 2: “The Paradox of Conservation and Control: Stakeholders and the Problem of Implementing Regulatory Policies” was hosted by Dr Vinh Sum Chau of the University of Kent. With the event’s delegates split into smaller groups, these workshops offered the essential space for discussion and debate amongst attendees.
Closing the afternoons talks, Professor Melanie Kreye of the University of York presented the challenge of “Managing significant threats in manufacturing industries – Disruption and recovery in complex systems”. Examining the sustainability and risk-related issues within global manufacturing industries, Prof. Kreye presented the necessity of building resilient systems in our current climate of environmental and geopolitical uncertainty.
A day filled with exceptional presentations from global thought leaders in sustainability-related business performance, this BAM event achieved its goal of inspiring and motivating the attendees to further strive for sustainability in theory and practice. From food production to car manufacturing, a variety of perspectives and ideas were offered on the causes of, challenges within, and potential solutions for the creation of sustainable business futures. Ending the day with a networking drinks reception, attendees reflected upon the day’s insightful contributions within the wider sustainability debate and certainly left the event inspired and motivated to continue striving to help the world’s businesses achieve Net Zero by 2050.
Katie Noble
SIG PM Reporter