Bournemouth University's (BU) Centre for Sustainable Business Transformations (CSBT) hosted the 'Future of Business – CSBT Sustainability Expo 2025' in July. This annual Expo brought together representatives from Dorset’s business community and academics to explore key themes in AI, Digital Transformation, and Sustainability, as well as Skills for Sustainable Business.
The Expo included a series of insightful presentations that offered attendees tangible examples of how AI was being utilised across different sectors to assist with the development of responsible innovation and support businesses with embedding this technology in their operations.
The Centre’s Head, Professor Marcjanna Augustyn, and Deputy Head, Dr. Mili Shrivastava, set the scene with insights on AI’s growing role in sustainability and sustainable business models. Professor Marcin Budka spotlighted real-world impact through KTPs, and Dr. Edward Apeh showed how AI can boost both productivity and sustainable growth.
The event included a showcase of real-world applications, including Jordon Trent, Director at Charles Trent Ltd – one of the UK’s leading vehicle recycling companies – demonstrating how advanced technology is driving sustainable growth within the green automotive sector, powered by their use of AI to optimise customer service and stock management. This was complemented by, Tim Robertson of Dorset Council, who presented a case of the innovative ROAR project; an agri-tech initiative utilising autonomous robots for ragwort identification and management, highlighting Dorset's pioneering role in rural digital transformation.
Recognising that many businesses are still navigating AI integration, Luke Williams from Intergage introduced the Campfire AI program, a collaborative initiative developed in partnership with Dorset Chamber. This initiative provides a strategic framework, fosters a supportive community, and offers essential resources to help businesses adapt to the rapid evolution of AI, addressing the critical need for related upskilling and reskilling. More information is available on Dorset Chamber’s website: https://dorsetchamber.co.uk/campfire/ The afternoon focused on skills and workforce development, with Jon Bird from Dorset Council UK offering valuable insights into emerging regional job trends and cross-sector skill needs.
The workshop on Skills for Sustainable Business uncovered a range of skills required by the industry that include: human-centred skills (problem solving, creativity, adaptability, agility, resilience, strategic thinking), and technology-centred skills (big data analysis, AI applications). CSBT are addressing these skills needs by offering short courses for business leaders, such as the CPD on Sustainable Business Transformations that starts in October 2025. To find out more about BU’s CSBT or to connect with the team at BU, visit the CSBT or contact CSBT@bournemouth.ac.uk