|
a
INTERNAL
Creating an organization’s culture and outlook requires
a contribution from everyone, working as a team.
1. Clearly articulated mission statement and set of principles
The mission statement clearly states the highest priority objectives
of the organization. The principles declare the values that are
promoted and practiced, thus establishing standards of accountability.
2. Commitment to an on-going process of improvement
This involves a daily striving to improve operations, viability,
adherence to principles, and success with projects and campaigns.
It is essential to establish a system for regular feedback along
with frequent professional trainings and the circulation of educational
materials.
3. Measure and report on progress and performance
In repo rting on progress in achieving social, financial and environmental
goals, the ability to monitor and evaluate progress is enhanced,
leading to improved performance.
4. Transparency of accounting and the triple bottom line
Maintain an open books policy, and utilize one of the standard
means of determining and quantifying the environmental and social
impact of projects and transactions.
5. Open lines of communication
Regular staff meetings, e-mail bulletins, accessible managers
and in-house newsletters help to maintain good communication.
Encourage the discussion of concerns of members, staff and board,
and address them until they are resolved.
6. In-house waste reduction and pollution prevention
“Green teams,” comprising staff from different departments,
can be effective in devising strategies to improve environmental
impact.
7. Materials that inform staff about economic, environmental and
social trends
Informed staff will be better equipped to promote organizational
goals and sustainability practices.
EXTERNAL
Member loyalty, public credibility and investor confidence are
gained by organizations that are committed to doing things right.
1. Policy and practice of honesty and service with members
and the general public
Communications should take an up-front approach and clear, understandable
language. Service is the raison d’être.
2. Commitment to community development and benefit
Giving back to the community is an acknowledgment of the value
and importance of the people and organizations in your local area.
3. Work with other public interest organizations
Many different forms of reciprocal support and collaboration exist
which will greatly enhance the effectiveness of projects and campaigns.
4. Contract with socially and environmentally responsible
companies
Research how potential contractors stand on their sustainability
practices before making a decision on who to use.
5. Use the precautionary principle
Research the various impacts that a project will have—social,
environmental and financial—so the risks are known and a
responsible decision can be made.
6. Have fun, stay healthy, and enjoy your work in an increasingly
stressful world (personal ecology)
Support staff members and volunteers in nurturing themselves by
having enough time off to recuperate and replenish, in addition
to providing a work environment that is healthy and enjoyable.
|
|
