Mainstreaming a Sustainable Workplace
Cindy FitzGerald
Manager, Workplace Solutions and Green Team Steering Committee Chair
McDonald’s Corporation
Opportunity The Home Office Workplace Green Team aims to
1) drive an upward trend in workplace sustainability by inspiring
U.S.-based office employees to be sustainable at work, at home and in
their communities; and 2) help foster a culture where responsible actions
are the norm, instilling a sense of pride and encouraging innovative
ideas and actions in support of McDonald’s global sustainability goals.
Solution In 2013, the company’s Green Team strengthened its alignment
with the Global Corporate Social Responsibility and Communications
teams and expanded field office representation and participation. The
initiative provided ongoing support of a volunteer-based Workplace Green
Team and the achievement of team goals that support brand McDonald’s.
Results Highlights from 2013 include:
• Get Caught Being Green in 2013 Green Team Ambassadors
program: Throughout the year, team members donned Green
Team aprons and provided hands-on training for composting and
recycling. The team recognized and rewarded employees who
demonstrated sustainable behaviors, such as using reusable cups
and compost and recycling bins.
• Quarterly Green Games and Activities:
Designed to build sustainability awareness and knowledge, these
events attracted over 1,000 participants from across the United
States. Quarterly Green Games included:
o Compost, Recycle or Landfill? – Over 360 people demonstrated
their knowledge of how to dispose of their waste when at the office.
o Sustainability Speak – Close to 300 people participated in this
multiple-choice game to test their understanding of “green”
terminology.
o iACT Blitz – Over 400 people have voluntarily entered their data in
a commuter reporting tool (iACT) used to measure carbon footprint
and resource savings achieved via alternative commute practices.
o Connecting with Nature Photo Contest – New in 2013, some 25
amateur employee photographers submitted photos showing how
they connect with nature. The “best of the McDonald’s” photos
were submitted in Conservation International’s photo contest.
• Bike to Work Week – Alternative commute practices can be a
challenge for suburban workplaces. But more than 20 employees
participated in the Bike to Work Week, creating a supportive
community that shares information on routes and tips to tackle
the suburban bike commute.
• Good Neighbor Family Film Fest – This annual event provides
information and fun for employees and their families. Over 140
people of all ages enjoyed viewing the environmentally themed
movie, “Over the Hedge,” networking with their colleagues and
creating bird feeders. Employee feedback has been very positive,
and participation continues to increase.