Top 3 new laws shaping the future of work and sustainability

Flexible work has become the top benefit. Transparent pay is proven to promote company culture. Companies will have to stop their misleading environmental claims.  

As the impact world continues to evolve, we are witnessing remarkable developments that are shaping the future of work and sustainability.  

In this blog post we’ll be covering the problem and solution of the:  

👨‍💻 Flexible working bill.

💸 EU transparency pay  

💚 EU greenwashing regulations.  

We know there’s so much going on out there so in this blog post, we will explore the top three news items that are making waves and driving positive change for both workers and the environment.

👨‍💻 The Flexible Working Bill

What is it?  

The Flexible Working Bill is set to revolutionise the way we work. This groundbreaking legislation will grant workers across all industries the legal right to request flexible working from the very first day of employment. Employees can make two requests for flexible working each year, and employers must respond within two months.

The Problem and Solution  

Flexible working has now become a necessity for modern employees, with 82% of UK workers wanting flexible working. In a world where the boundaries between work and personal life are often blurred, offering flexible work options can greatly improve work-life balance.  

Furthermore, flexible working arrangements can make work more accessible to under-represented groups, including women, disabled individuals, parents, and carers. By embracing flexible working, employers can tap into a more diverse talent pool, which not only fosters inclusivity but also leads to a wider range of perspectives, ideas, and solutions.

In addition to promoting diversity and inclusion, flexible working can lead to increased employee satisfaction, productivity, and loyalty. 85% of businesses report an increase in productivity after adapting into a flexible working scheme. Workers are more likely to be engaged and motivated when they have the flexibility to manage their personal responsibilities alongside their professional commitments.

Next Steps  

The passage of the Flexible Working Bill through the House of Lords marks a significant milestone. As it awaits royal assent to become law, employers must proactively rethink and plan for the expected influx of flexible working requests. Embracing this change will not only help businesses attract and retain top talent but also promote a culture of trust, respect, and understanding within the workplace.

The future of work is undoubtedly flexible, and it is time for organisations to adapt and thrive in this new era.

💸 EU Transparency Pay

What is it?  

The EU Transparency Pay initiative is a progressive step towards promoting pay equity and closing the gender pay gap. This measure focuses on increased talent attraction, better employee retention, and fostering a culture of openness and trust within organisations.  

The Problem and Solution  

In the UK as many as 8 in 10 employers still pay men more than women on average for the same job. Despite significant progress in recent years, women, on average, still earn less than their male counterparts for performing the same job. The EU Transparency Pay initiative aims to address this problem by promoting transparency and fairness in pay structures.

When employees feel that they are being compensated fairly based on their skills, qualifications, and performance rather than their gender, they are more likely to be motivated and dedicated to their work. This can lead to increased job satisfaction and improved employee retention, which ultimately benefits the organisation.

Moreover, transparent pay practices also contribute to a positive company culture. When employees trust that their employer values fairness and equity, it fosters a sense of belonging and loyalty, resulting in a more engaged and productive workforce.

Next Steps  

The EU Transparency Pay initiative will set new standards for organisations to follow, encouraging them to act against pay discrimination. As the movement gains momentum, companies need to embrace the change and be proactive in implementing fair pay practices.

💚 EU Greenwashing Regulations

What is it?  

The EU Greenwashing Regulations are a crucial step towards protecting our planet from misleading environmental claims in advertising. The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) has released updated guidelines that offer clarity on carbon neutral and net-zero claims, ensuring that companies substantiate their environmental claims.

The Problem and Solution  

Greenwashing, or the misleading promotion of products as environmentally friendly, has been a major concern in recent times. 59% of green claims made by European and UK fashion brands are misleading. As sustainability becomes an increasingly important factor for consumers, many companies have been using deceptive marketing tactics to portray their products and services as more eco-friendly than they are.

The EU Greenwashing Regulations aim to put an end to these misleading practices. By providing clear guidelines on environmental claims, companies will be held accountable for their sustainability claims. Consumers will be able to make informed choices, supporting brands that genuinely contribute to a greener future.

Next Steps  

The ASA will closely monitor environmental claims over the next six months, taking immediate action against unqualified claims, particularly in the food and fast-moving consumer goods sector. Businesses must embrace the shift towards transparency and authenticity, playing a pivotal role in safeguarding the environment.

Summary

To summarise, these three impactful developments are reshaping our work culture, promoting diversity and inclusion, and safeguarding the environment. As we move towards a brighter and more sustainable future, it is essential for organisations to adapt and embrace these changes. Together, we can create a world where positive impact becomes the driving force for progress and change.

Stay tuned for more news by checking out our LinkedIn and upcoming blogs. If you want to know more about the 4-day week or the top 10 employee benefits in 2023.

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