The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were adopted by the United Nations in 2015. They are a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that by 2030 all people enjoy peace and prosperity.

The 17 SDGs are integrated, recognising that action in one area will affect outcomes in others and that development must balance social, economic and environmental sustainability. They recognise that ending poverty and other deprivations must go hand-in-hand with strategies that improve health and education, reduce inequality, and spur economic growth. They also push to tackle climate change and preserve our oceans and forests.

Please click on a tile to learn more about each SDG and how local companies are using the SDGs to drive good growth.

Social value is the positive impact that an organisation or activity has on society. It goes beyond financial profit, focusing on the benefits to people, communities, and the environment. Social value can be measured in various ways, including job creation, skill development, community engagement, and environmental sustainability.

By prioritising social value, organisations can contribute to a more equitable and sustainable world while improving their reputation and long-term success.

In the UK, all public sector organisations and their suppliers (typically businesses) must consider how the services they commission and procure can improve the economic, social and environmental wellbeing of an area.

Check out how to identify relevant social value to your organisation.

Use our SDG Configurator to see how you can make a difference.

SDG CONFIGURATOR

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SDGs & social value

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Supporting the local community
A business can support the local community by buying and employing locally, offering training and apprenticeships, and volunteering.

Collaborating with others
A business can collaborate with other providers in the area to improve services.

Being environmentally conscious
A business can be environmentally conscious by using recyclable packaging materials or supporting local tree planting initiatives.

Creating a befriending scheme
A business can create a befriending scheme to reduce social isolation among local residents.

Being a good employer
A business can be a good employer by respecting employees' work-life balance and being considerate.

Supporting local organisations
A business can support local voluntary or charitable organisations.

Offering advice
A business can offer advice to students who are interested in a specific career path.

Providing free space
A business can provide a room in their office or care home for a local charity to use for meetings.