3 tips to cement compassion for the earth in your corporate culture

Even in companies that have pledged millions to environmental causes, plastic packaging is still a common sight in the office. Lights are left turned on in unoccupied rooms. What can companies do to truly cement the value of compassion for the earth in their corporate culture? Here are 3 tips to cement compassion for the Earth in your corporate culture.

Educate

Compassion for the earth is not as simple as using reusable grocery bags or throwing your takeaway boxes into the recycling bin (did you know that you have to rinse them first?). Compassion is a skill and capacity that can be developed and nurtured with clear intention.  Given its importance in our lives, we need to keep ourselves educated and informed of how to experience and practice compassion for the earth. Additionally, one cannot encourage a corporate culture of compassion for the earth without knowing what that truly entails. In this regard, programs and campaigns can come in handy. 

Hands-on activities that engage & connect with the environment

Instead of just pledging money, consider activities that give your employees the chance to directly interact with the environment. This can foster a stronger sense of connection with the environment. For example, beach cleanups can help raise awareness of pollution and littering, and give employees a much-needed break from the desk too! Even non-CSR activities like having an indoor garden in the office, to be maintained by employees, can encourage employees to appreciate and care for life...and the environment.

It’s the small things that count

Big gestures like building green buildings and switching to reusable energy are great, but how about the little things like having a recycling bin in the office or printing on reused paper? Instead of plastic binders which are often single use, try reusable binders made from recycled material; remind employees to switch off the lights in a room when not in use. Small acts of compassion for the earth, when incorporated into our lifestyles as habits, can add up to a lot. Importantly, they give employees a good idea of what a sustainable lifestyle can be like. 

Think of small changes you can make to your company’s day-to-day activities - like switching to more eco-friendly binders!

Companies are privy to more connections and resources than many individuals. It is important that companies give back to society by doing their part to safeguard our environment, and this requires a cultural dedication to compassion for the earth.