Statement
We recognise the importance of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors in shaping our long-term success, as well as their impact on the communities and environment in which we operate. We strive to create value for all stakeholders while actively managing risks and embracing opportunities associated with ESG considerations. We created amenities and initiatives to support health, wellness and sustainability. Together with our members, we are committed to making a positive impact on the environment and our community.
Experience a better Workspace.
Environmental Stewardship
We are dedicated to minimising our environmental footprint by promoting sustainable practices throughout our operations. This includes reducing greenhouse gas emissions and conserving natural resources, and actively seeking renewable energy alternatives. We do this by integrating various initiatives into our United Co. building and business.
Energy Conservation
Energy conservation is at the forefront of our operations, ensuring a brighter future for both our company and the planet. We have implemented motion-activated sensor lights and air conditioning/heating throughout our offices, and lights on timers through the hallways prioritising energy conservation while ensuring the safety and comfort of our members. The windows of our building feature energy-rated glass, highlighting our dedication to maximising natural light while minimising heat loss or gain. These windows not only create an inviting and vibrant workspace but also contribute to significant energy savings throughout the year. United Co harnesses the power of the sun with our extensive solar panel array on our rooftop. This investment in renewable energy empowers us to generate clean electricity on-site, reducing our dependence on fossil fuels and minimising our carbon footprint. By reducing energy consumption and utilising renewable resources, we ensure operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness, translating into a competitive advantage that resonates with our environmentally-conscious members and community.
Water Conservation
Water conservation is an important part of sustainability goals at United Co, where we have implemented various measures to minimise water usage and be responsible in our resource management. Our bathrooms are equipped with water-saving fixtures and fittings, such as low-flow faucets and efficient toilets, which significantly reduce water consumption without compromising functionality. Our purpose-built office has six onsite water-saving tanks that capture rainwater and store it for day to day use in our toilet facilities. This enables us to utilise an alternative water source, reducing our reliance on freshwater supplies. By incorporating these initiatives, we are actively contributing to water conservation and reducing our environmental impact.
Waste Management & Recycling
We chose our waste management provider based on our closely aligned values. Our partner actively strives for a ZERO waste approach and a circular economy, where resources are not wasted but rather shared, leased, reused, repaired, refurbished, and recycled for as long as possible.
At United Co., we are dedicated to reducing waste generation and promoting recycling and responsible waste management practices. We achieve this through various initiatives such as implementing segregated bins and in-office recycling programs like the Planet Ark Cartridge Recycling. Additionally, we separate organic waste and collaborate with local social enterprise Reground to recycle coffee grounds from our in-house café and multiple member kitchens.
Through innovative collaboration, our goal is to establish a circular economy and minimise waste, thus contributing to a positive future.
Eco Friendly Transportation
United Co. actively promotes and supports the use of alternative transportation methods as a commitment to reducing carbon emissions. One of the ways we do this is by offering secure bicycle storage facilities and quality end-of-trip amenities for our members. We understand the importance of encouraging sustainable and healthy commuting options, and by providing secure storage for bicycles, we aim to make it easier for our members to choose cycling as a viable mode of transport.
United Co. recognises the growing popularity and environmental benefits of electric vehicles. To cater to this, we have installed electric car charging stations at our facilities. This enables our members who own electric vehicles to conveniently charge their cars while they work, ensuring they have access to reliable and eco-friendly transportation options.
We also understand the value of public transport for efficient and convenient commuting. That’s why we strategically choose our location near public transportation routes allowing for seamless travel to and from our office.
Indoor Environmental Quality
We are deeply committed to fostering a sustainable and eco-friendly work environment. We have taken thoughtful steps to ensure that our indoor spaces are healthy and comfortable. This includes providing proper ventilation and ample natural light, as well as incorporating green spaces with indoor plants whenever possible. We have also created outdoor areas, such as a rooftop garden and balconies, for the well-being of our members.
We also take measures to minimise indoor pollutants and allergens, creating a conducive and healthy working environment. By exclusively using biodegradable and eco-friendly cleaning products, we actively minimise our ecological footprint and preserve the natural balance of our ecosystems. The eco-friendly alternatives effectively clean and disinfect while posing no harm to human health or the environment. We believe that maintaining a clean and healthy office should never come at the expense of the planet.
Social Responsibility
We are committed to the well-being and success of our team of employees and our community members alike, respecting their rights and promoting a diverse and inclusive work environment. We prioritise the health and safety of our team, members and guests, striving to create a culture of safety and providing ongoing training and support. We foster equal opportunities, prohibit discrimination, and promote diversity at all levels of our organisation. We actively engage with our member community to understand their needs, support social initiatives, and contribute to and support in need groups and organisations and support Not For Profit organisations that operate within our member community.
Fair pay, living wages & labour regulations
Fair pay, living wages, and adherence to labour regulations is a fundamental right of every person and we understand that an equitable workplace is not only an ethical obligation but also a vital aspect of building a just and sustainable workplace.
We are committed to ensuring that our employees receive fair compensation so that they may maintain a decent standard of living. Following labour regulations, laws and a Code of Conduct protect the rights and well-being of our workforce. By upholding these principles, we foster a culture of respect, dignity, and fairness, where every individual is valued for their skills and dedication.
Equal employment opportunity
United Co. has built a workplace culture of support and respect. Our people are our family, where every person is valued as an integral part of the team. We champion individuality, inclusion and hard work. We collaborate and support each other in our mission to give members the best possible experience. United Co. is an equal opportunity employer welcoming people with individual levels of experience and expertise, different cultural and religious backgrounds, and varying beliefs, identity and age.
Workplace Health and Safety
We are committed to providing a safe and healthy workplace through the implementation of benchmark H&S practices. Our goal is to ensure that every employee and community member feels secure, supported, and empowered to perform their duties without compromising their safety or well-being. By maintaining a safe work environment, absenteeism is reduced, productivity increases, and a positive company culture is maintained. Workplace health and safety drives our actions and decisions. We believe that everyone deserves to work in an environment where their health and safety are upheld as the highest priority.
Anti Slavery Statement
Modern slavery is a widespread violation of human rights, that despite occurring in every country and many industries around the world, is often hidden from view. Modern slavery affects all of us through the supplier and consumption choices we make. United Co. is committed to learning more about anti-slavery initiatives, raising awareness and completing our due diligence on the suppliers and partners that we work with to ensure they align with our values.
Wellness in workplace
At the core of any business or creative project is the people involved. Not only does that matter because the success of a business tightly depends on the health and wellbeing of its people. Employee fitness and wellness programs in the workplace have become a top priority for businesses in order to help improve employees behaviour and reduce health risks. Our workspaces and shared facilities have been designed to improve mental and physical health, so you can feel good about coming to work.
Accessibility & Inclusivity
We believe everyone should be able to enjoy a great workspace. Our building has been designed to create an inclusive environment that accommodates diverse needs. We ensure the comfort and wellbeing of all members and encourage diversity and inclusion throughout our membership base. Facilities include:
- Meeting rooms, offices, common areas, cafe, coworking spaces, phone booths and event spaces are all wheelchair accessible;
- Hearing augmentation system is available for video conferencing;
- Registered assistance animals welcome;
- Private prayer rooms available;
- Nursing/changing room for parents.
Sustainable supplier selection
We operate with supply from a wide variety of companies and we recognise that our suppliers are a critical success factor in our sustainability goals. We implement a holistic approach to procurement, to ensure our environmental, social and governance goals are integrated throughout our supply chains. Through enforcing a sustainable supplier selection criteria, we aim to hold our suppliers to a higher standard of responsibility.
Source & Support Locally
United Co. is a proudly local independently-owned business. Our services are designed to enable local businesses to be the best they can be. We believe that anyone should be able to enjoy world-class workspace facilities, no matter if you are a freelancer, solopreneur, start-up, small business, growing business or large enterprise. Our community spreads beyond the walls of our building as we support nearby businesses with virtual services, meeting rooms, training facilities and venue hire. United Co. is committed to partnering with local suppliers who share our values, vision and goals.
Collaboration and Networking
We provide our community with opportunities for collaboration and networking with one another. We encourage knowledge sharing, facilitate connections, and create platforms for collaboration and innovation. By fostering a collaborative community, we aim to promote sustainability initiatives and support businesses in their ESG efforts.
Community Engagement
We actively engage with our local community and surrounding LGA. Together with the City of Yarra, we are working towards supporting local initiatives. We foster relationships with neighbouring businesses and organisations. We strive to positively impact the communities in which we operate.
Not for Profit Support & Charitable Contributions
We believe in giving back and regularly support charities and non-for-profits through collaborations, fundraising, donations and running community events. Many groups within our member community operate not for profit organisations for varying causes. We support our members in their causes and facilitate a platform to build further awareness and actions.
Acknowledgement of Country
We respectfully acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which we operate, the Boon Wurrung and Woiwurrung (Wurundjeri) peoples of the Kulin Nation and pay respect to their Elders, children and young people of past and present. We respect their culture and the continued contribution they make to our region and city.
Governance Excellence
United Co. is committed to practising good governance principles to ensure the effective management and long-term success of our business. We recognise the importance of transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct in all aspects of our operations. This governance statement outlines our approach to governance and the key principles we adhere to:
Ethical Conduct
We conduct our business with the highest standards of integrity, honesty, and fairness. We promote a culture that values ethical behaviour and discourages any form of corruption, fraud, or unethical practices.
Accountability
We foster a culture of accountability where each team member understands their responsibilities and is empowered to make informed decisions. We establish clear roles and responsibilities, set performance objectives, and regularly review progress.
Risk Management
We have implemented a robust risk management framework to identify, assess, and manage risks that could impact our business. We regularly review our risk profile and take appropriate measures to mitigate risks and capitalise on opportunities.
Financial Management
We maintain accurate financial records and adopt sound financial management practices. We ensure that financial transactions are carried out with integrity and adhere to appropriate accounting standards.
Compliance
We comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and industry standards relevant to our business operations. We have implemented policies and procedures to ensure ongoing compliance and keep up to date of any changes in the legal and regulatory environment
We apply strong governance principles in managing our member community. We are committed to ensuring transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct in all our interactions with our members.
→ Member Engagement
We value our members’ input and actively seek their engagement in shaping our business and community. We provide opportunities for members to provide feedback, suggestions, and ideas. We strive to foster a sense of ownership and inclusivity by involving members in decision-making processes that impact the community.
→ Code of Conduct
We have established a clear code of conduct that governs the behaviour and interactions of all members within our community. This code of conduct outlines expected standards of behaviour, respect, and inclusivity, promoting a positive and supportive environment for all members.
→ Communication and Transparency
We prioritise open and transparent communication with our members. We provide regular updates on community activities, initiatives, and decisions through various channels, such as newsletters, app messaging, email, noticeboards and social media. We ensure that members have access to accurate and timely information about the community’s operations, goals, and objectives.
→ Privacy and Data Protection
We respect and protect the privacy of our members and handle their personal information in accordance with applicable privacy laws. We have implemented appropriate measures to safeguard member data, maintain confidentiality, and ensure secure storage and handling of personal information.
→ Conflict Resolution
We are committed to addressing conflicts or disputes that may arise within the member community promptly and fairly. We provide a clear procedure for members to express concerns or grievances and ensure that these are handled impartially and resolved in a timely manner.
→ Review and Evaluation
We regularly review and evaluate our governance practices to ensure their effectiveness and alignment with our member community’s evolving needs. We welcome feedback from members and use it to drive improvements and make necessary adjustments to our governance framework.
Our governance statement reflects our commitment to maintaining a strong and vibrant member community. We believe that by practising good governance principles, we create an inclusive and supportive environment that fosters collaboration, trust, and shared success among our members.
United Co. remains dedicated to upholding these governance principles within our member community, and we encourage active engagement and feedback from our members to help shape our community’s future.
Continuous Improvement
We are committed to continuous improvement and regular assessment of our ESG goals, performance and achievements to identify specific areas for improvement. We learn from best practices and collaborate on shared challenges. Through transparent reporting, we aim to provide clear and comprehensive information on our ESG initiatives, achievements, and challenges.
As United Co. moves forward, we remain dedicated to our ESG commitments, recognising that our success as a business is intrinsically linked to our impact on the environment, society, and our governance practices. United Co. aims to not only provide a flexible workspace solution but also to ensure that our operations align with sustainability principles. We will continue to collaborate with our members, employees, and stakeholders to improve our performance and drive positive change within the flexible workspace industry.
Everyday we learn from our community and we work together to keep our village strong. We keep inspiring one another, we collaborate and innovate. We look to the future and get excited about the possibilities. We all have a responsibility to live a better life for ourselves, the people around us and for our planet.