The UK's leading sustainability in business title, Business Green, has published an article on DEI in the ESG industry, entitled 'In Focus: Why DEI matters for green businesses'.
The article features several insights and quotes from Made in Britain Chairman, Professor Chris Harrop (pictured, left): "According to Made in Britain chairman Professor Chris Harrop, while there has rightly been a focus on workplaces embracing more diversity on grounds of gender, race, ethnicity and sexual orientation, the role of those with neurodivergent conditions ranging from autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit disorder (ADHD) to dyslexia and dyspraxia in DEI initiatives.
"Harrop argues neurodiverse individuals can possess distinctive strengths, such as an ability to master a dominant skill or talent, speed in pattern recognition and problem-solving, and an ability to think critically and abstractly. However, a recent report by the Office for National Statistics found just one-in-five autistic people are currently employed."
"Yet it has been reported that a relatively high proportion of people in advanced STEM roles have some form of neurodivergency. 50 percent of NASA employees are dyslexic - while Harrop cites Elon Musk, who has spoken of growing up with Asperger's and Richard Branson, who has severe dyslexia, as inspiration.
Diverse perspectives act as catalysts for innovation and creativity,' Harrop says. 'When individuals with different cognitive styles come together, they bring with them unique ways of processing information and problem-solving.'
In the context of ESG; he argues this translates into the development of potentially more innovative solutions to complex climate-related challenges. 'Whether it's devising novel approaches to renewable energy or reimagining supply chain transparency, diverse teams foster a culture of creativity essential for facing unprecedented challenges and driving progress,' Harrop says.
Harrop adds that those workplaces that are most inclusive of neurodiverse staff are adept at offering clear and direct communication accompanied by visual aids and written instructions to reduce communication barriers and are designed to minimise sensory overload by controlling lighting, noise levels, and other sensory stimuli.
He also flags mentorship programs, support networks and comprehensive training and awareness programs for all staff as an essential part of an effective DEI programme.
Crucially, both Harrop and IEMA's Sarah Mukherjee highlight flexible work arrangements as key to helping neurodiverse staff thrive without facing sensory or social challenges.
The article can be accessed on the Business Green website.
By Made in Britain 6 months ago | Media coverage