Circular Economy
Always view it in English
No one doubts the essential role played by Human Resources in the Sustainability strategy in companies, an indispensable lever for the cultural transformation of people. Because when we talk about sustainability, what we are really talking about is acting and thinking differently.
It is a new economic model that aims to use resources more efficiently, to minimise the resources consumed and to reincorporate those usable from waste into the production process.
How is the circular economy related to Human Resources?
One of the principles of the circular economy is the extension of useful life, a basis that has been put into practice in Human Resources strategy for some time by means of knowledge transfer programmes whose purpose is to extend and share the knowledge and know-how of company professionals.
This is articulated through programmes presented by internal trainers, as well as development programmes such as mentoring, where professionals with a consolidated trajectory in the company provide mentoring for other colleagues in the development of new skills.
It does not exclusively involve suitable knowledge management, it concerns highlighting the importance of and acknowledging these internal references, as well as enriching this knowledge by sharing it with other colleagues.
Within Human Resources, there is a clear commitment to cultural change and transformation programmes. The environment is changing, so we should not only change with it but also anticipate these changes, find our best version and even reinvent ourselves, which is what another of the pillars of the circular economy refers to: The generation of new life cycles.
Support for the individual transformation that we are all experiencing and guaranteeing the well-being of people is another of the most important functions of this area. This support takes the form of development programmes like coaching. At Endesa, the Internal Coaching Network is at the forefront of this initiative. It involves colleagues who, in addition to their usual work, would like to support internal professionals in their development. Another of the most important cultural change programmes is "Cambiamos", an initiative focussing on our behaviour and values as a company, as a team and as people; by adopting a new mindset, new ways of working and progressing towards a new style of leadership.
Very few companies are currently taking Circular Economy principles into account in their Human Resources strategies, but it is a trend that will be consolidated in the coming years, especially in companies committed to sustainability and people.
To find out all about the world of Human Resources and the latest trends go to the blog A coffee with HR or on Instagram @uncafeconrh_
Discover more Circular economy projects.
