Top tips for going green: 15 simple steps towards making a big difference

Abstract

Purpose

The paper aims to provide a series of tips on how to introduce a green strategy to the workplace, and offer examples of companies that are already involved in environmentally‐friendly activity.

Design/methodology/approach

This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments.

Findings

The paper finds that when it comes to going green there is one thing that practically all business writers agree on: we have to do it and the sooner the better. As well as daily news reports that point to the growing threat of climate change, new legislation, community demands, staff morale and moral imperative all contribute to the increasing pressure on organizations to go green. Loud and clear, business leaders cannot help but have got the message. What is not so clear, however, is the how – CEOs need to hear what specifically they should do to best incorporate environmentally friendly initiatives into the workplace and, moreover, how they can do this without compromising their duty to shareholders. It is only when leaders are convinced that responding to ecological needs will complement good business sense that we can expect the rate of conversion to green practice to increase at the rate scientists hope.

Practical implications

The paper gives a framework for how to start moving any company towards a green strategy. It suggests how management can involve environmental awareness with all aspects of a company's planning.

Originality/value

The paper provides a simple, easy to digest “how to” list that managers and executives can easily take tips from.

Citation

(2008), "Top tips for going green: 15 simple steps towards making a big difference", Strategic Direction, Vol. 24 No. 6, pp. 10-12. https://doi.org/10.1108/02580540810867998