Word from OM - How I initiated an eco-responsible approach in my organization

I am Office Manager in a Swedish group, manufacturer of video protection systems, and more precisely for its French subsidiary. In the context of Scandinavian societies, Sustainability is at the heart of development and operational policies.

While this word is sometimes used incorrectly, as a fad or a facade for greenwashing, some people really want to be more responsible on a daily basis and in the long term.

Eco-responsibility, which represents an important part of a sustainability policy, is a key element in the development of our societies: it echoes our values, allows growth both at the human level and in terms of the development of our products and solutions, and in terms of our partnerships. It is also a guarantee of quality, because we are committed to a safer future.

I therefore offer you some eco/socio-responsible practices, which are rather easy to implement.

‍

Call an authorized repairer rather than throwing away and buying a new machine

When the legal or commercial warranty is prescribed or the failure is not covered by them, the trend has long been to buy a new model, newer, sometimes more efficient, of the type of machine that has made its own. Today, we are looking to consume in a circular and no longer linear way, that is, instead of discarding the damaged object, its repair is considered and carried out if possible. Repairers like Murphy allow rapid interventions, with professionals who are experts in their field. The machine starts like new, and savings are drawn from the non-purchase of new equipment (monetary and environmental).

‍

Reduce consumption in the kitchen

Goodbye stirrers, glasses, plastic cups. And no, we can't replace it with bamboo! The practice of replacing plastic with other disposable materials is not a good practice, it is greenwashing. A good eco-responsible policy is one that allows you not to throw away. So we go back to the basics, we take out the stainless steel spoons, the cups that we wash and re-wash (the dishwasher saves water in the process) and for our visiting customers, we offer them water in glass bottles and returnable (thanks to the service provider) Just in time in particular).

‍

Encourage reuse

You only print what is absolutely necessary, preferably double-sided and when you have finished using your documents, if possible, you reuse the back of the documents rather than throwing them away. Because reforestation is not the solution (loss of biodiversity, less resistant forest...), consider reduce your consumption of paper and cardboard. That's why we Reuse all cardboard boxes that come to us for our package shipments. Do not be surprised to receive one of our products in a box from a coffee supplier.

‍

Establishing inclusive social policies

On the social side, we use several partners who employ or use disabled or retired people. Delicorner has sometimes delivered sweets made by young retirees who love to bake; our Christmas trees are ordered from an ESAT and to see them decorate our offices so beautifully is a real pleasure.

‍

Set up sustainable mobility packages (not mandatory in small structures)

This type of policy was able to make some of the employees aware that other means than individual transport (and its hassles) were possible. Let's talk about low-carbon means of transport: we have had several Bernard Hinaults among our employees for over a year now! We offer them safety equipment (fluorescent armband or bib with light signaling acting as flashers) for better visibility and safety, and for reduced impact mobility.

‍

Implement the eco-responsible management of computer equipment

As an IT company, we work for the most part with computer hardware. This fleet can quickly become large, and between orders and fleet outings, it becomes easy to get lost. Just as unused or aging hardware could find a second life with other companies, it is important to be able to control your computer equipment as much as possible. This makes it possible to avoid situations such as having to ask Paul from IT to place an order every 15 days, without knowing what was ordered and who received the equipment, or having to remind Catherine that no, the latest PC is not useful for her missions. A refurbished device in perfect working condition will do just fine!

This saves time and acts for the circular economy by offering a second life, or even several other lives, to computer devices. These are the two solutions offered by Rzilient: management of computer equipment and refurbished equipment for your organization!

‍

Opt for responsible distribution of goodies

Let's go, one last one for the road! Small or large communication objects for businesses, goodies are part of business life. The sales team never leaves the office without the complete panoply, the marketing team is looking for those who would please the partners... They are always there.

So yes, we can continue to communicate in this way, but we prefer product referencing made in France, or at least in Europe: we think about the carbon footprint and we give a boost tolocal and committed economy. Indeed, making a commitment to the planet, with sustainable and non-disposable goodies, will make an even greater impression. And now we think of Panopli, with a team that listens and is not idle to reference new ideas, always with the greatest respect for the environment and not only: thank you for the CSR charter signed internally and externally!

Other practices need to be studied and implemented, and everyone can contribute in their own way to a cleaner, safer world by also taking into account social problems. Everyone can contribute, in the private sphere but also in the professional sphere, to setting an example for colleagues or management.

So, on your marks, ready, Participate !

Madline Poirot, Office Manager at Axis Communications