As a company, it’s important to not only focus on the bottom line but also to consider the impact your company has on the environment. One way to rally employees around sustainability initiatives is by forming a “Green Team” – a group of employees who are dedicated to implementing sustainable practices in the office and surrounding environment.

But how do you motivate and recruit members for this important initiative? 

How To Obtain Employee Or Participant Buy-In

• Identify a Leader: The first step in creating a Green Team is to identify a leader. This should be someone who is passionate about environmental sustainability and willing to take charge. They don’t necessarily have to be an expert in the field, but they should be enthusiastic and have the organizational skills necessary to get the team up and running. Give an employee a passion project and watch them flourish.
• Communicate the benefits: It’s crucial to clearly communicate the benefits of joining the Green Team to potential members. Not only will participating in sustainable practices benefit the environment, but it can also lead to financial savings for the company. In addition, being seen as a socially and environmentally responsible business can enhance your company’s reputation.
• Make it a real TEAM effort: Encourage employees to sign up as a team rather than just as individuals. This can create a sense of camaraderie and make the initiative more fun and rewarding. Working together towards a common goal can also be a great bonding experience for team members.
• Offer incentives: Consider offering incentives for team members, such as recognition in local company social media, a small financial bonus (make sure it’s an e-gift card, not single-use plastic), or extra, paid time off. These rewards can be a great way to show appreciation for the hard work of team members, keep them motivated and inspire other cohorts to join in.
• Provide resources: Make sure team members have the resources they need to succeed, such as information about sustainable practices and access to necessary materials. Providing access to resources and training can help team members feel more confident and capable in their roles.
• Set Goals and Monitor Progress: Set clear, achievable goals for the Green Team to work towards. This could include reducing waste, increasing recycling and composting efforts, or implementing energy-efficient measures in the office. Monitor the team’s progress. This can be done by tracking data against set goals. Regular check-ins with the team will help ensure that everyone is on the same page and that the team is working towards its goals.
• Celebrate successes: It’s important to recognize and celebrate the team’s achievements. This could be as simple as hosting a team lunch or publicly thanking team members for their hard work. Taking time to celebrate successes can boost morale and motivation – nothing like a Zero-Waste Pizza Party to drive home the message!

Take these ideas and make them your own. Anyone can successfully motivate and recruit a dedicated group of employees to join a Green Team and make a positive impact on the environment. Not only will this benefit the local ecosystems, but it will also benefit your company in the long run through cost savings and a positive reputation. Plus, being a part of a team that is making a difference can be a source of pride and fulfillment for team members. What are you waiting for? Start building your Green Team today!

How To Unite An Entire Organizational Chart

The Okapi Environmental Services team is composed of experts who  work with groups from school children to executives to janitorial staff in multiple languages. Whether at the C-suite or the Street, creating teams and achieving commitment from your individuals is a challenge, since the work they do is primarily focused on productivity and their specialties. One unique value proposition from Okapi is the finesse with which we are able to move between and motivate these different levels of an organization. We find that skills can be leveraged from across your organization without regard to primary job functions. The right causes, like protecting the environment, allow new perspectives and leadership growth hidden in employees to flourish.

Regardless of your size and complexity, so long as your organization invests in the triple bottom line, the People, the Profits, and the Planet, Okapi wants to join your Green Team. It begins with a conversation.