My steps to sustainable future
In the communication department where I am in charge of internal communication, we try to be sustainable when developing materials, content and activities for employees. Let me tell you more about how we do it.
Supporting sheltered workshops
Before Christmas and Easter, we organize little markets in our office building, where colleagues can buy decorations and other products from local producers engaged in sheltered workshops. In these workshops and specialised schools, people with disabilities are trained for their professions. They are given the opportunity to work in adapted premises with the help of a work assistant, using specific work equipment and working hours. They sell their products as well as small snacks and coffee or lemonade at our markets. This year we ordered little gifts for our THSN ambassadors from these creators.
Loyalty Program with eco-friendly gifts
In the beginning of the year, we run the Loyalty program and give our colleagues a little gift for having insurance with us. They can choose from three categories of gifts, depending on the amount of their annual insurance. We always prepare a little catalogue of products that we carefully select from local businesses and most of them are eco-friendly. This activity is quite popular, and our employees appreciate our selection of products.
Saving paper and going digital
Our branch is a leader on the market when it comes to digitalization. Over the years we reduced paper greatly - we bring online services and solutions that are economically and environmentally more advantageous as the documentation is in digital form and does not require paper printing.
Our printers are set for double-sided printing, we reuse the paper when possible, and we encourage proper disposal of used paper in designated recycling bins.
For internal communication we use LCD monitors instead of paper posters, banners on the intranet and our major communication channel is weekly newsletter.
Reduce, reuse, recycle!
By implementing these steps, our employees can contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally conscious workspace. There are several areas where we focus on reduction to enhance ecological sustainability.
We try to recycle in our building and there are recycling bins in the common kitchen on every level in the building. Some of us have recycling bins even in the office. Regularly we communicate recycling guidelines and updates to keep everyone informed. When it comes to recycling, we put a special bin for batteries in the common areas. Batteries can be recycled separately to prevent harmful substances from entering landfills.
We choose eco-friendly products with minimal packaging or eco-friendly packaging when we order promotional items, and we think of the environmental impact when selecting suppliers. As I mentioned earlier, we often try to support diversity and inclusivity.
When it comes to Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC), we regularly maintain these systems to ensure efficiency. We set temperature controls to minimize energy consumption.
And last but not least - start from yourself
I believe that one must start living their live more sustainable even when it is just baby steps and try to inspire other people to do the same so there can be a change. When we change our daily life and routine to be more ecologic, then we will think more about our actions at work and how to make decisions that are more sustainable.
Think twice when shopping
Before indulging in a shopping spree, it's wise to pause and reflect on the true necessity of each purchase. Considering the environmental impact of consumerism, as well as personal budget constraints, thinking twice before shopping encourages responsible and mindful consumption. This thoughtful approach can lead to more conscious choices, promoting sustainability and financial well-being while reducing unnecessary clutter and waste in our lives.
Ditch plastic and switch to reuse
Making conscious choices, such as using reusable bags, containers, and water bottles, not only benefits the planet but also promotes a culture of responsibility and environmental stewardship. In our branch, we placed a few sparkling water makers, so our employees can make their own water instead of buying it in plastic bottles. We have also removed the option to order bottled water for the meetings from our suppliers and we use fresh water in a jug.
I personally shop in a packaging-free store, I don't put fruits and vegetables in unnecessary plastic bags in the store, I use solid soap and shampoo bar instead of liquid soap, and I try to minimize any waste in the cosmetics I use – I shop bigger sizes of products that lasts longer, I stopped using cotton pads etc. I've been going shopping for years with my bag and if I forget it - I'll take a paper box in the store instead. And carrying my own water bottle is a must!
Ditch fast fashion and animal-based textiles
With its rapid production cycles and disposable trends, fast fashion contributes significantly to environmental degradation and unethical labour practices. By opting for slower, sustainable fashion alternatives, individuals can support eco-friendly materials and fair labour practices. Majority of my closet contains of second-hand pieces. Lately I love to use app Vinted that is basically a huge online second-hand when you can easily look for your preferred brands, colours, and sizes and that makes shopping much easier and more sustainable. I found there many pieces that I was looking for in the recent years!
Drive less, drive green
Adopting the mantra of "drive less, drive green" represents a commitment to reducing one's environmental footprint and promoting sustainable transportation practices. Our company is encouraging employees to minimize their carbon footprints during business travel as well and many colleagues find travelling by train more comfortable and they start to enjoy it. You do not have to focus that much; you can sit back and relax, or you can catch up on work when traveling by train.
Choosing to drive less involves exploring alternative transportation options such as walking, cycling, carpooling, or utilizing public transportation. This not only benefits the environment but also contributes to improved personal health and community well-being. I go to work by public transport every day and therefore I do not struggle to find a parking spot every morning. In summer I take a walk from work back home and I find it very nice.
Inspire others!
However, I know that this is only the beginning of the journey. By leading through example, we inspire others to join in this collective effort, as we navigate this journey, we not only contribute to the preservation of our planet but also become advocates for a more sustainable and harmonious world.
Remember, it's not about achieving perfection overnight. We should consistently make choices that align with our values, gradually steering our lives towards a more sustainable and compassionate existence. The journey begins with each one of us, and together, our effort can create a lasting impact for generations to come.
Read the article in original language
My steps to sustainable future
We all know and realize that now is the time when we need to change our behaviour to create better future. To take the responsibility for our planet. I appreciate that our company is not indifferent to the fate of our planet, and I see that we think about sustainability in most of our decisions and adapt our processes to make the future greener.
In the communication department where I am in charge of internal communication, we try to be sustainable when developing materials, content and activities for employees. Let me tell you more about how we do it.
Supporting sheltered workshops
Before Christmas and Easter, we organize little markets in our office building, where colleagues can buy decorations and other products from local producers engaged in sheltered workshops. In these workshops and specialised schools, people with disabilities are trained for their professions. They are given the opportunity to work in adapted premises with the help of a work assistant, using specific work equipment and working hours. They sell their products as well as small snacks and coffee or lemonade at our markets. This year we ordered little gifts for our THSN ambassadors from these creators.
Loyalty Program with eco-friendly gifts
In the beginning of the year, we run the Loyalty program and give our colleagues a little gift for having insurance with us. They can choose from three categories of gifts, depending on the amount of their annual insurance. We always prepare a little catalogue of products that we carefully select from local businesses and most of them are eco-friendly. This activity is quite popular, and our employees appreciate our selection of products.
Saving paper and going digital
Our branch is a leader on the market when it comes to digitalization. Over the years we reduced paper greatly - we bring online services and solutions that are economically and environmentally more advantageous as the documentation is in digital form and does not require paper printing.
Our printers are set for double-sided printing, we reuse the paper when possible, and we encourage proper disposal of used paper in designated recycling bins.
For internal communication we use LCD monitors instead of paper posters, banners on the intranet and our major communication channel is weekly newsletter.
Reduce, reuse, recycle!
By implementing these steps, our employees can contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally conscious workspace. There are several areas where we focus on reduction to enhance ecological sustainability.
We try to recycle in our building and there are recycling bins in the common kitchen on every level in the building. Some of us have recycling bins even in the office. Regularly we communicate recycling guidelines and updates to keep everyone informed. When it comes to recycling, we put a special bin for batteries in the common areas. Batteries can be recycled separately to prevent harmful substances from entering landfills.
We choose eco-friendly products with minimal packaging or eco-friendly packaging when we order promotional items, and we think of the environmental impact when selecting suppliers. As I mentioned earlier, we often try to support diversity and inclusivity.
When it comes to Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC), we regularly maintain these systems to ensure efficiency. We set temperature controls to minimize energy consumption.
And last but not least - start from yourself
I believe that one must start living their live more sustainable even when it is just baby steps and try to inspire other people to do the same so there can be a change. When we change our daily life and routine to be more ecologic, then we will think more about our actions at work and how to make decisions that are more sustainable.
Think twice when shopping
Before indulging in a shopping spree, it's wise to pause and reflect on the true necessity of each purchase. Considering the environmental impact of consumerism, as well as personal budget constraints, thinking twice before shopping encourages responsible and mindful consumption. This thoughtful approach can lead to more conscious choices, promoting sustainability and financial well-being while reducing unnecessary clutter and waste in our lives.
Ditch plastic and switch to reuse
Making conscious choices, such as using reusable bags, containers, and water bottles, not only benefits the planet but also promotes a culture of responsibility and environmental stewardship. In our branch, we placed a few sparkling water makers, so our employees can make their own water instead of buying it in plastic bottles. We have also removed the option to order bottled water for the meetings from our suppliers and we use fresh water in a jug.
I personally shop in a packaging-free store, I don't put fruits and vegetables in unnecessary plastic bags in the store, I use solid soap and shampoo bar instead of liquid soap, and I try to minimize any waste in the cosmetics I use – I shop bigger sizes of products that lasts longer, I stopped using cotton pads etc. I've been going shopping for years with my bag and if I forget it - I'll take a paper box in the store instead. And carrying my own water bottle is a must!
Ditch fast fashion and animal-based textiles
With its rapid production cycles and disposable trends, fast fashion contributes significantly to environmental degradation and unethical labour practices. By opting for slower, sustainable fashion alternatives, individuals can support eco-friendly materials and fair labour practices. Majority of my closet contains of second-hand pieces. Lately I love to use app Vinted that is basically a huge online second-hand when you can easily look for your preferred brands, colours, and sizes and that makes shopping much easier and more sustainable. I found there many pieces that I was looking for in the recent years!
Drive less, drive green
Adopting the mantra of "drive less, drive green" represents a commitment to reducing one's environmental footprint and promoting sustainable transportation practices. Our company is encouraging employees to minimize their carbon footprints during business travel as well and many colleagues find travelling by train more comfortable and they start to enjoy it. You do not have to focus that much; you can sit back and relax, or you can catch up on work when traveling by train.
Choosing to drive less involves exploring alternative transportation options such as walking, cycling, carpooling, or utilizing public transportation. This not only benefits the environment but also contributes to improved personal health and community well-being. I go to work by public transport every day and therefore I do not struggle to find a parking spot every morning. In summer I take a walk from work back home and I find it very nice.
Inspire others!
However, I know that this is only the beginning of the journey. By leading through example, we inspire others to join in this collective effort, as we navigate this journey, we not only contribute to the preservation of our planet but also become advocates for a more sustainable and harmonious world.
Remember, it's not about achieving perfection overnight. We should consistently make choices that align with our values, gradually steering our lives towards a more sustainable and compassionate existence. The journey begins with each one of us, and together, our effort can create a lasting impact for generations to come.