Understanding Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and their impact on well-being

At Move To Happiness, we actively help companies leverage Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to build happier, healthier and more engaged work environments. But what exactly are SDGs, and how do they impact well-being? Let’s break it down.  

What Are SDGs? 

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a collection of 17 global goals set by the United Nations in 2015 to address the world's most pressing challenges by 2030. These goals encompass a wide range of crucial issues, including access to quality education, improving global health and well-being, climate change, reducing inequality, … Each goal has specific targets aimed at creating a sustainable future for everyone, regardless of nationality, industry, or economic standing. 

Here's a quick summary of the 17 SDGs: 

• No Poverty – End poverty in all forms everywhere. 

• Zero Hunger – Achieve food security and promote sustainable agriculture. 

• Good Health and Well-being – Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all. 

• Quality Education – Provide inclusive, equitable, and quality education. 

• Gender Equality – Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls. 

• Clean Water and Sanitation – Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation. 

• Affordable and Clean Energy – Ensure access to affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy. 

• Decent Work and Economic Growth – Promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth. 

• Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – Build resilient infrastructure and foster innovation. 

• Reduced Inequalities – Reduce inequalities within and among countries. 

• Sustainable Cities and Communities – Make cities inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable. 

• Responsible Consumption and Production – Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns. 

• Climate Action – Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts. 

• Life Below Water – Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas, and marine resources. 

• Life on Land – Protect, restore, and promote sustainable use of ecosystems. 

• Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions – Promote peaceful and inclusive societies. 

• Partnerships for the Goals – Strengthen global partnerships to achieve the SDGs. 

How SDGs Impact Well-being  

Well-being, both mental, physical and social, plays a crucial role in productivity, engagement, and the overall success of any organization. Several SDGs have a direct impact on enhancing well-being in the workplace. Let's explore a few of them: 

Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being The most obvious goal tied to well-being is SDG 3, which focuses on ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all. This includes addressing mental health, ensuring access to healthcare, and promoting healthy lifestyles.  

Goal 5: Gender Equality  In the workplace, promoting gender equality not only reduces disparities but also fosters an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued. Equality enhances employee satisfaction, contributing to a more engaged and committed workforce. 

Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth Promoting sustainable and inclusive economic growth is key to SDG 8. It highlights the importance of decent work conditions, fair wages, and labor rights.  

Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities SDG 10 focuses on reducing inequalities, which is particularly relevant in diverse workplaces. By addressing disparities in income, race, and gender, companies can create equitable environments where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.  

Goal 13: Climate Action Although Goal 13 primarily focuses on addressing climate change, companies that take climate action can contribute to well-being by reducing the harmful environmental impacts that affect health. Clean air, green spaces, and sustainable practices contribute to a healthier and happier workforce. 

Why should companies care about SDGs and well-being? 

When companies align their goals with SDGs they experience several benefits: 

• Higher employee engagement & better retention: Employees who feel their company values are more engaged and committed. 

• Improved ESG scores: By integrating SDG-related initiatives, companies can improve their Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) scores, enhancing their corporate reputation and appeal to investors. 

• Boost in productivity: Happier, healthier employees are naturally more productive and motivated, leading to better financial results. 

At Move To Happiness, we help organizations to translate these SDG’s into something practical for employees. Discover more about our way of working.