Sustainability in the Workplace

I recently attended a sustainability workshop hosted at Spider Agile Technology in Kelowna. Spider creates pre-manufactured modular plug and play power solutions. In 2008 Spider joined DIRTT Environmental Solutions which uses advanced software to design, build and organize modular "green" office interiors that virtually eliminate construction waste and any future renovation waste.

We were given a tour of their facilities and I was amazed at the design of their workspace, not to mention the company itself. The space was as environmentally sustainable as the products they manufacture. Movable walls and access floors with solar panels, xeriscaped gardens and a gym for staff - balancing the need for a cost effective space that occupies less real estate while still maintaining a healthy, productive and inviting work environment.

Mogens Smead, the founder of DIRTT (doing it right this time), believes that “There’s more to the environment than going ‘green. It’s about behavior. You want to have an environment that’s conducive to health, productivity and that’s a reflection of your culture.” There’s no question that the DIRTT approach is relatively unique in the business world; employees don’t have titles or assigned offices, and on-site chefs makes sure staff are well fed. “We try to accommodate family and lifestyle issues, and that’s why our company has been as successful as it has been,” Mogens says.

The team at DIRTT challenges the traditional reduce-reuse-recycle focus for sustainability activities. “Recycling should be the absolute last resort,” Mogens says. “The smart approach is finding something that will completely sustain itself. Sustainability is the whole platform for our company. The bottom-line is it’s less expensive and it’s also the right thing to do.”

I was thrilled to see how these companies were making a difference and creating sustainable alternatives for future generations. As a Professional Organizer, I often see the impact of small changes in behavior. It doesn't happen overnight, but changes can be made one small step at a time.

If you would like more information about these innovative companies visit www.spideragiletechnology.com or www.dirtt.net.