Top social & sustainability virtual events to attend in 2021

We all want 2021 to be better in terms of social good, sustainability, and equality. Businesses want it. Consumers want it. Everyone wants it. But how do we actually go about getting it?

In our view, events are a massively overlooked factor in this. With COVID-19 still a weight around the world, virtual events will have to take centre stage once again and do most of the heavy lifting. While we will miss out on in-person interaction, networking, and treating ourselves to the snack tables, at least it means we can all attend more events, irrespective of location or distance. 

But how do you know which events will be worth your while? We thought we would answer that question for you and have given you a breakdown of some of our top picks for virtual events in 2021. The events have been categorised for you, so note down the dates that interest you the most, and we hope to see you there (figuratively, of course).

Events for sustainability

The Sustainability Leaders Forum – February 2-4 – Global
This event brings business leaders, sustainability professionals, government representatives, and NGOs together to solve the climate crisis. 

6th Annual Sustainability Week – March 22-25 – UK
Learn actionable insights and practical solutions that can help your business work towards greater sustainability.

International Conference on Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainable Development – July 29-30 – Europe
Following on from the London edition this month, this event brings together leading academic scientists and researchers to share their insight on all things CSR and sustainable development.

Events for social change

National Social Value Conference 2021 – February 23rd – UK
Now in its fourth year, this event is designed to share best practice and innovative ideas on embedding social value into business. This year’s theme is ‘Recover, rebuild, and renew’.

IWD 2021 – March 10 – UK
Celebrate International Women’s Day in sessions with leading academics and inspirational speakers.

Points of Light Conference – July 14-16 – US (virtual or in-person)
While this event is based in the US, if you can find the time, it’s well worth taking a look at. Connect and collaborate with others while sharing the knowledge and resources needed to galvanise people to bring about change.

Events for businesses

Social Value Act & the Central Government Framework – February 18th – UK
This ‘how to’ workshop on the new changes to government procurement is a great starting point to wrap your head around your responsibilities with other businesses.

World CSR Day Seminars – February 18th – UK
A single-day event covering all the basics of beginning your journey with CSR. Each individual seminar has been split up, so register for the ones you think will be most worth your while.
Seminar 1 – Environment
Seminar 2 – Workplace
Seminar 3 – Community
Seminar 4 – Philanthropy

Training course: Building a culture of responsibility – February 23rd – UK
This is a one-day training event for those looking to strengthen responsible business strategies across all levels of their business.

Training course: Driving change for responsible business – March 23rd – UK
A one-day event sharing the tools and techniques for gaining traction on responsible business programmes.

17th Annual Diversity and Leadership Conference – April 21-22/28-29 – US 
Another US-based conference but a topic that’s always worth hearing more about. Hear from experts about diversity and inclusion topics that can transform your personal and professional life. 

Employee Engagement Summit 2021 – May 11-13 – Europe
Europe’s largest employee experience event, exploring the future of employee engagement and how technology is changing the game.

The Reuters Events Global Responsible Business 2021 – June 1-3 – Global
A conference of discussion on how businesses can better tackle global problems with innovation and collaboration.

This is just scratching the surface of the virtual events taking place this year. But amongst these, you are sure to find some that will provide the insight and networking opportunities to boost your organisation’s success in all things CSR, social value, and purpose. Next week, we will look more directly at how your business can do more with less when it comes to value generation. Don’t miss out.

At Impact, we provide an innovative, easy-to-use platform for tracking and reporting all your value generation efforts. If you would like to find out more or book a demo, get in touch with us on 0161 532 4752.