UNC Charlotte Launches New Green Workplace Program To Boost Campus Sustainability

A new badge-based program at UNC Charlotte looks to change environmental practices across campus. The Office of Sustainability's Green Workplace program makes going green easier to track and accomplish.

Teams need to master waste reduction before moving on to other green badges. Each department selects a representative to lead its green efforts, with leadership approval needed to get started.

“The badges allow a unit to address different sustainability topics, one at a time, making the badges focused and manageable,” said Jessica Kisonas, education coordinator for the Office of Sustainability, to Inside UNC Charlotte. “This framework allows units to find solutions that fit their own operational and cultural needs instead of trying to incorporate prescribed actions.”

Following up on its 2015-2019 Green Office program, the new initiative walks departments through three main steps. Groups must get leadership approval, review their current practices, and implement actual changes with evidence of completion.

“The Green Workplace program is designed to assist units in creating manageable goals,” said Tammie Lyons, strategic support specialist in facilities management to Inside UNC Charlotte. “Participation in this program allows units to directly contribute to the University's goal of becoming a national leader in sustainability.”

Staff have seen their work areas change for the better. "The educational benefits of visible sustainability actions, such as compost bins, inspire others within their offices," said Karyn Williamson-Coria.

International Programs quickly adopted smart changes. Adding separate bins for trash, recycling, and compost showed how departments could make the program work for them. Their success got other departments interested.

Zero waste expert Shannon Caveny-Cox provides hands-on training to improve recycling knowledge. Teams can access tips, guidelines, and success stories from other departments on the program's website.

The program stays on track through regular check-ins. Employees show greater interest in green practices since their departments got involved. These efforts align well with the university's environmental goals.

Sign-up information is available on the program's website for departments wanting to join. The sustainability team is ready to help departments earn their badges.