Phil Parkin, director at Content OD talking to Mel Kanarek on the Sheffield Digital Podcast

This year we are making a series of small changes at Content OD to make us a more sustainable, environmentally conscious agency. You can listen to my interview for the Sheffield Digital Podcast, where I explain in detail what we are doing and the impact we hope it will have.

Small steps, big difference

You might have noticed that we are in the middle of a global climate emergency. It can be pretty daunting and difficult to know what we can do to help make things even just a little better. As with most things, even small steps can have a positive effect.

Our decision to make changes here was inspired by some of the work Anna, my co-director has been doing outside of the office. She’s co-founded an initiative called Kids Plant Trees, which is both self-explanatory and absolutely brilliant.

We wanted to explore ways that we could apply that same philosophy – small changes, big difference – to the company. So we began speaking to our team and asking them to share their own thoughts. Several months later, everyone is on board and we are turning ideas into practice.

What we are doing

We’re right at the beginning of this journey, but here are just some of the measures we have put in place.

Close the office on Wednesday afternoons
Only use rechargeable batteries
Only buy second-hand or refurbished technology
Only buy second-hand or refurbished office furniture
Use refills for handwash and similar products
Print double-sided and in black and white
Program heating for maximum efficiency
Buy from ethical brands where possible
Change search engine to Ecosia, which plants trees with every search
Use a more ethical, privacy focused web browser
Pressure hire companies to use electric vehicles
Collectively try more environmentally-friendly commute options
Look at adopting a cycle-to-work scheme

Of course, all of this is subject to change too. If something doesn’t work, we will change it or make it even better. We’re treating the entire process as something of a test and learn experience. Some measures will do well, others might be harder to maintain.

The main thing is we are taking these steps. We really believe that it’s possible to improve the way you do things as an agency. It doesn’t have to be extreme – just small changes can lead to a better culture and a reduction in carbon footprint.

Any questions?

We’re always happy to answer questions about anything we do, so please get in touch if you want to chat. And don’t forget to listen to that interview with Sheffield Digital, where I go into much more detail.

Building a more sustainable, climate-friendly content agency