As sustainability facilitators, we all want to reduce our negative environmental and social impacts, and improve the positives. Elsewhere I have written about 'walking the talk' at events, workshops, conferences which we might be organising. This post is about my own practice, in case anyone wants to check that out.
As a small practice, there is no environmental management system or formal policy. But I do take steps to reduce environmental impact and maximise the positive social impact.
Transport
Using public transport and cycling to client meetings and events, rather than using a private car. I do not fly. I encourage clients to use telephone or video conferencing, or e-mediated processes, where appropriate.
Energy
The office uses energy efficient equipment. Both electricity and gas for the building are purchased from Good Energy, a supplier of renewably-generated electricity. Good Energy also pays a rebate for the solar hot water heated on site, through its renewable heat incentive HotROCs [update 2020: this scheme no longer operates.]
Carbon offsets
I participate in a carbon sequestration scheme through the Environmental Transport Association, to help offset emissions from public transport, taxis, car use and air travel (which is rare). In addition, an annual offset is undertaken with Climate Care, based on average carbon emissions for a business of this size. Off-setting the carbon from client meetings, workshops or events can also be arranged.
Stationery and consumables
‘Greener’ options are used, including recycled paper (including flip chart paper and post-it notes), refilled / remanufactured ink cartridges, solvent-free pens, refillable pens. Preference is given to organic, local and fairly traded food at the office and where I have control over refreshments at workshops. Reusable containers and crockery are specified where I have control over refreshments at workshops. My company (Verlander Walker Ltd) was a silver-level signatory to the Mayor's Green Procurement Code when this scheme operated.
Waste
Paper and envelopes are reused. Paper is collected for recycling. Cartridges are sent for recycling. Polythene mailing films are sent for recycling. Organic waste is composted.
Water
Water efficiency equipment has been installed in the workplace.
Community activities
As well as fee-paying client work, from time to time I undertake pro bono facilitation for small community organisations, organise peer-learning and networking among sustainability professionals and facilitators. [Updated 2020]
Sliding scale
Project fees are negotiated individually, with lower day rates charged to the voluntary sector, and higher day rates for the for-profit sector.