SOCIAL CHALLENGES

Sustainable consumption is something that all members of society can participate in. Making a conscious effort to make more environmentally friendly lifestyle choices can have an impact on regional carbon emissions and waste generation. Promoting a green and sustainable lifestyle can have a positive effect on the fight against global warming by highlighting the contribution that an individual can make.

PROJECT APPROACH

From 3 August to 2 September 2020, Teufel had a 30-day challenge to encourage employees and their families to adopt a more sustainable lifestyle. It included targets such as avoiding plastic shopping bags, going vegan, avoiding takeout, and avoiding bottled water. If employees were able to successfully pass these challenges every day for a week, they would receive points that get them tickets to win the final prize. The 30-day challenge was not only a China initiative, but included Teufel members all over the world.

VALUE ADDED

The challenge has generated lasting positive benefits for Teufel employees world- wide. In China, the company encourages staff and visitors not to use bottled water, in- stead opting for purified tap water. Consequently, Teufel’s office now uses less air conditioning, has less paper waste, and less takeout packaging. Employees benefit from the more conscientious approach to sustainability, and their contributions are recognized by the company in a tangible way with clear targets and rewards for participation. The challenge proved to be a successful exercise in employee participation, motivating the families and friends of employees, as well as Teufel clients, to take part in environmental protection.

LESSONS LEARNED

In order to reduce carbon dioxide emissions, Teufel managers decided to change company logistical plans to avoid the use of airplanes. This required the company to completely revamp its understanding of transportation, but it has contributed to building sustainability as a core aspect of the company culture. The company-wide project strengthened communication between the HQ and China and internally, helping Teufel learn its employees‘ interests.

IDEAS FOR THE FUTURE

The next project Teufel has planned is a CO2 compensation plan. The company plans to find a partner to make donations with on environmental projects to offset company-produced CO2. The policy will eliminate short flights, re- placing them with train travel and video conferences when possible.

Source: More Than A Market Booklet 2021