Crux's Commitment to Sustainable Development: Aligning with the United Nations Global Goals

Published: 21/06/24
Image: A small plant growing in cupped hands, background of leaves

In 2015, the United Nations Member States adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, a comprehensive plan to build a global partnership for sustainable development, improve human lives, and protect the environment. The 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are at the heart of this agenda, which serve as an urgent call to action for all countries to work together to tackle some of the world’s most pressing challenges.

Across the development pathway, Crux applies sustainably responsible considerations to its projects. These closely align with many of the UN Sustainability Development Goals and help to maximise the broader business’s sustainable impact without compromising on high-quality outputs for our clients. Here are some of the ways we contribute:

 

Promoting Healthy Living (SDG 3)

One of the key goals of the UN’s Sustainable Development Agenda is to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all ages. We are committed to this goal through our work in the medical and Fast Moving Consumer Goods markets. Our projects are designed to promote healthy living for the wider population, whether by developing medical devices or creating products that encourage healthier lifestyles. By prioritising health in our projects, we contribute to the global goal of ensuring healthy lives for all.

 

Reducing Reliance on Physical Testing (SDG 7)

Ensuring access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy is an important goal of the UN’s Sustainable Development Agenda. We are working towards this goal by reducing reliance on physical testing through in-silico analysis. By utilising advanced simulation techniques, we can minimise the material burden of complex development streams.

Furthermore, the solar panels on our office building offset the energy used to power these simulations, further reducing our environmental impact and contributing to clean energy goals.

 

Optimising Material Selection & Reduction (SDG 12)

Another important aspect of sustainable development is ensuring sustainable consumption and production patterns. We use our in-house eco-analysis capability to optimise material selection and reduce material use through thorough design analysis methods. By carefully selecting materials and minimising waste, we can save on both cost and environmental impact, contributing to a more sustainable future.

 

Embracing Inclusive Design Principles (SDG 4, SDG 5, SDG 10)

Achieving gender equality, reducing inequality, and ensuring inclusive and equitable education are essential to sustainable development. Our Human Factors team incorporates inclusive design principles into all our projects, ensuring that our products are accessible to everyone, regardless of gender or background.

In alignment with the UN’s SDG 4, we hold an annual outreach programme with Ashton Park School for girls passionate about STEM and engineering. This initiative provides workshops, technical skills development, and presentations to inspire and engage young women in STEM, promote gender equality, and encourage inclusive learning experiences.

 

Promoting Ethical Supply Chains & Good Working Conditions & Sustainable Practices (SDG 8, SDG 10)

Reducing inequality within and among countries is another goal of the UN Sustainable Development Agenda. We promote good working conditions and sustainable practices throughout our supply chain and within Crux.

We implement a comprehensive due diligence process to ensure that our partners adhere to sustainable practices, provide quality products, and ensure fair working conditions.

By carefully selecting approved suppliers and holding them accountable to these standards, we can assure that our partners align with our values and commitment to sustainable development.

Internally, we foster an inclusive work environment and offer employee benefits like the cycle-to-work scheme, encouraging our team members to choose eco-friendly options to get to work. We offer British Cycling Membership, unlimited bike accessories stocked in the office, and secure bike lockers. Additionally, our office has a washing machine, drying room and showers, making it easy for employees who cycle to work to freshen up before starting their day.

We also provide enhanced private health insurance, a health care cash plan (where employees can reclaim healthcare costs, like dental/optical etc), maternity, paternity, shared parental leave and adoption pay.

These initiatives contribute to the well-being of our employees, help reduce our carbon footprint, and promote sustainable transportation.

By creating a work environment that values sustainability and well-being, we aim to make a positive impact through our projects and internal practices, ultimately contributing to reducing inequality and promoting sustainable development.

Crux is deeply committed to aligning our work with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and prioritising sustainable practices in all aspects of our business. By partnering with us, organisations can work towards achieving these vital global goals and creating a more sustainable, equitable future for all.

To learn more about the UN Sustainability Goals, have a look at their video.