Find speakers by:
Request more info

Earth Day: What Is Your Workplace Doing To Help?

Earth Day: What Is Your Workplace Doing To Help?

Happy Earth Day! To celebrate on of the year’s most important days, and to draw attention to the importance of reducing humankind’s footprint on the earth, Mike Kerr, “The Workplace Energizer” shares his thoughts on what you and your company can do to contribute to environmental sustainability:

Having just returned from one of the most bio-diverse regions on the planet–namely Ecuador, where I spent time in the Amazon jungle, the spectacular Galapagos Islands, and in a cloud forest reserve that holds the record for the most number of birds counted on the annual Audubon bird count day–I’m feeling particularly, well, earthy, I suppose (I blame it on the blue-footed boobies). So, a few thoughts to ponder…

*What is your workplace doing to minimize your impact on the environment and/or contribute to a healthier planet? Not only is it the right thing to do, we know from numerous studies that employees want to feel connected to a greater sense of purpose in their work, and to work for organizations that place a premium on values such as sustainable environmental stewardship.

*Getting involved in charity events is a fantastic way to boost morale and build team camaraderie. Why not look for more opportunities to contribute to organizations that support environmental causes?

*A growing number of smart phone apps and online resources are making it easier than ever for customers to assess the environmental practices of companies and the environmental impact of various products, allowing them to vote with their dollars like never before. How will this impact your company as this trend grows?

*Conversely, some companies reward customers for their eco-friendly practices. For example, the Opus Hotel in Vancouver offers free parking for guests who drive electric cars.

*If you are trying to raise environmental awareness or change behaviors in your workplace, then remember that a little humor can go a long way. As Arlo Guthrie once said, “Just because you’re trying to save the planet it doesn’t mean you can’t have any fun!” (For inspiration, check out these videos that deliver environmental messages in a hilariously funny manner: Top Ten Funny Environmental Videos.)

We’ve got one amazing planet that we’re borrowing for a short time. Everything and everyone is interconnected like never before. Since the economy is a subset of the environment (and not the other way around, as some believe) we need to celebrate, appreciate, and respect the earth like never before.

Mike Kerr/April, 2015