Green teams in government : action research to discover how to use green teams

Abstract

Government Services (2007) has recognised their operations are having adverse effects on the planet. Energy, water, and material use, carbon dioxide emissions from travel and building operation, and waste disposal are of concern. This research used an action research methodology to establish a group of employees (green team) who were interested in making their organisation more sustainable. The research also used interviews with executives at Government Services, interviews with other organisations that had experience using green teams, and personal reflection. Over 30 interviews were conducted with 15 organisations and 61 Government Services employees participated in the green team. As a result, an active green team with 15 green initiatives are underway and the culture is shifting towards sustainability. The research makes recommendations for establishing, maintaining, and growing green teams in organisations. The research concludes a green team can help an organisation work to reduce its environmental footprint and shift culture towards sustainability.