Gareth Kane on IKEA's employee giveaways
As IKEA give another green gift to their employees, Gareth Kane considers whether 'the man' can make you a better global citizen.
It was announced today that IKEA are giving away 9600 energy efficient lightbulbs to their staff to encourage them to reduce their ecological footprints. This isn't the first big staff giveaway from the Swedish Superstore - they give everyone a folding bike at Christmas to encourage them to cycle to work. 90 promptly appeared on ebay, leading to some snorts of derision, but personally I would like to work in an organisation where only 1% of the workforce was so unappreciative.
Leaving aside the question of whether a company should seek to change the lives and attitudes of their employees, this story got me thinking about how much difference an employer can make.
Commuting is the obvious issue where a difference can (and should) be made and some employers go to extremes to encourage more eco-friendly transport. In one new building, University of Hertfordshire provided cycle parking, showers and lockers for a third of staff and students. They didn't stop there, providing an offroad cycle link into the local network and encourage bus companies to provide services along popular staff commuting routes.
But one of the most effective ways is to allow more flexible working. A study of studies for the Department of Trade and Industry has shown that staff allowed to work from home several days a month cut their carbon emissions both from commuting and workplace, offices being incredibly energy inefficient. Another study by Hampshire County Council found evidence of a 'contracted action space' amongst regular home workers - in other words they used local shops and other services - leading to other environmental benefits.
So if you work for 'the man', explain what Corporate Social Responsibility is, ask for a day at home once in a while and, particularly if he says no, ask him where your new bike is.
Until next time,
Gareth
Gareth Kane
Eco-living Blog
Terra Infirma
