I wanted to share with you one of the most important things I've learned over the past 20 years of implementing sustainability programs with people who aren't necessarily passionate or on board.  That is, aligning your actions with your most conscientious objectors skills and interests.  You know that saying - 'keep your friends close and your enemies closer', well this is how it can help you embed sustainability.  

You know there is always one or two people who go out of their way to take down your ideas or complain loudly when asked to contribute to your sustainability initiatives.  They bring down the vibe and take the fun out of the experience for everyone.  You know who they are! 

It is important to get them on board before they take everyone down with them.  I have found that engaging them by aligning a project or practice with their expertise, skills or interests works like a charm.  Work out what they are really good at and put that at the center of your next initiative.  Ask...

I promised to share a bit more insight on my first tip for engaging others in your sustainability programs and initiatives - Don't Make it Extra.

When you're trying to embed sustainability, or make any type of change for that matter, the first objection you often come up against is 'I don't have time for that!'.  Your team will probably feel like this is yet ANOTHER thing they have to add to their to-do list.  No-one wants to do more, especially if it's not something they are particularly interested in or passionate about.

My advice, create time and space for sustainability by considering all that you are currently doing.  Is there anything you can stop doing?  Something that you've been doing forever but doesn't bring much benefit or create value in your practice.  People always complain about having to do something that is a waste if time - that's a good place to start.

You can also consider what you have in place, and how you could tweak things to incorporate more sustainability....

Have you been nominated as Sustainability Leader in your early childhood setting?  Maybe you volunteered because it's something your passionate about.  Are you finding it hard to get others on board with your programs and initiatives?  

All too often I hear that those given this role or who have put up their hand are left floundering on their own with little support from their team.  They do their best but soon become discouraged or burnt out, trying to do it all on their own.  Fighting an uphill battle all the way.  

I have worked with all kinds of organisations over the past 20 years developing, implementing and evaluating sustainability programs.  These included local and State Government, Small Businesses, Community Groups, Not-For-Profits, Schools, OSHC and of course Early Childhood Services. 

I have supported and implemented sustainability programs in Maternal and Child Health Services, Playgroups, Family Day Care, Long Day Care, stand alone Kindergartens, and have seen first ...