5 Initiatives that indicate environmental consciousness among organizations

RISE Cohort 3 Alumni, 2019

One of the most impactful ways to meaningfully engage young people in your organization is by implementing initiatives that matter to us. According to a recent study conducted by Apathy Is Boring in partnership with the Environics Institute, youth are more concerned about the climate crisis as a long term problem in comparison to the pandemic, and have less faith that the right decisions will be made to address it. As systems of power and influence, institutions and organizations hold a special responsibility to ensure that they are doing their part by implementing environmentally sustainable practices into their operations. 

Organizations and institutions often say they care about an issue, but without action to prove it, it comes off as performative - and young Canadians pay attention to that. As one of the demographics most affected by climate change, young people are concerned about the environment, and we want to see that your organization is too. When our concerns are reflected in your organization’s practices, it demonstrates to us that we have the power to take charge of the conditions we live in. In light of world environment day coming up on June 5, here are five great initiatives that demonstrate environmental consciousness in your organization.

1 - Reducing Waste

One of the easiest ways your organization can adapt to be more eco-friendly is through reducing waste by using more sustainable materials. While this may seem like a small step, office materials add up to a sizeable portion of Canada's yearly waste. Canada uses 6 million tonnes of paper and paperboard annually, and only 1/4 of it is properly recycled. Actions like using tablets instead of paper to take notes and making recycling accessible can make a big difference in reducing your organization’s collective waste. To yield tangible change, set a goal for your organization with regard to its waste reduction, and keep track of your progress. This way, you can be held accountable for the long-term changes you are making.

2 - Investing in the environment

Invest in programs that are working to solve the climate crisis, and that benefit youth and our needs. Post to your website and social media where and how you’re making these investments, and welcome conversations, advice and feedback surrounding it. Investing in the environment means investing in youth and the changes we stand for. It shows us that you care about our futures, and that you’re working toward making a more safe and equitable world.

3 - Supporting wind-down of fossil fuels 

Because of its culpability in the climate crisis, investments in fossil fuel are not sustainable. But right now, it’s important to prioritize the many young people working in the industry who are facing economic uncertainty as a result of COVID-19. Organizations can support both fossil fuel workers and the environment through diversification of investments. By transitioning investments from fossil fuels to clean energy and green industries, we can better ensure a long-term solution for communities that currently rely on fossil fuels.

4 - Building relationships with Indigenous communities

Find out what Indigenous land you’re on, and build relationships with the Indigenous communities there. Indigenous people are at the forefront of climate activism, and by taking the time to learn and support their projects and practices, you are enacting real change through community building. Recognizing and supporting the environmental work Indigenous communities have been doing for centuries shows that your organization genuinely wants to make change through the spirit of collaboration and mutual respect.

5 - Listening to Youth 

Young people have a unique relationship with the fight against climate change. Most of us have grown up acutely aware of this issue, and knowing that it will become more pressing as time goes on. As we navigate our way through this pandemic, our anxieties about climate change are still top of mind.  If you want to make real changes with regard to climate change, a meaningful action is to simply involve us. Ask the young people in your organization where and how you can do better. When you receive feedback and advice, celebrate it and act on it.

Remember to be transparent and hold yourself accountable

Young people expect tangible results towards the fulfillment of your organization’s goals. For all the initiatives listed, be open and share what you’re doing. Show where and how you’re investing in a brighter future for everyone. Keep track of your progress and share it in an accessible way — through social media, for example. This shows us that you care about us and that you are actively working to make a clean, safe and better tomorrow. At the end of the day, working to better the environment is the ultimate indication of being Youth-Friendly.