Atlas Copco introduces staff-led resource reduction programme

Atlas Copco has launched ‘Blue is the New Green’, a new employee-led sustainability initiative that aims to reduce the company’s resource consumption on a global scale.

The programme encourages staff to reduce their environmental impact by carrying out a number of small changes when it comes to the use of resources such as water, electricity and materials. Atlas Copco hopes to raise awareness of resource issues. For example, signs are being put up near sinks to encourage employees to report maintenance issues quickly in order to minimise water waste, and staff are encouraged to use recyclable cans and reusable glasses rather than disposable alternatives.

‘Blue is the New Green’ promotes interaction and employee initiative. Managers can share challenges they have encountered on an online platform to help find a solution, and staff can submit resource-reducing ideas. Ideas have already begun to be submitted, including the installation of motion-detected lights.

The programme was introduced after some 3000 employees across 65 countries completed a survey on the topic in 2013. Over 65% of respondents said that a focused effort to reduce resource consumption would create value for both themselves and the company.

“This is hands-down one of our most important initiatives in recent history,” said Andrew Walker, Business Area President, Atlas Copco Construction Equipment.

“This is not a campaign with an end date,” added Sofie Gielen, Atlas Copco’s Communication Director. “This is a first step to build ongoing employee engagement and resource efficiency into our operations, not only because it contributes to our company message, Sustainable Productivity, but also because it’s just the right thing to do.”

Adapted from press release by Louise Fordham

Read the article online at: https://www.worldcement.com/the-americas/30032015/atlas-copco-launches-blue-is-the-new-green-601/