In 2025, our Office Management team took a significant step forward in our commitment to sustainability by forming a dedicated expert group. While we have always prioritized energy and water efficiency, waste management, and general accessibility when creating our spaces and events, we recognized the need to dive deeper into our daily operations, which are crucial for the long-term impact.
Our goal was to bridge the gap between high-level sustainability goals and the day-to-day experience of every employee and operational habits of the Office Management team.
EcoVadis Office - Toronto, Canada
A Two-Pillar Approach
To guide our improvements, we identified two essential pillars:
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Accessibility Parameters: Ensuring our offices are broadly inclusive , including neurodivergent employees and those with physical or visual impairments.
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Environmental Parameters: Reducing our physical footprint through smarter resource management.
We initiated the process by creating project briefs and meeting with stakeholders to audit our current progress and identify gaps. To ensure our strategy was data-driven, we analyzed results from our internal Diversity, Equity and Inclusion survey, which provided valuable insights into the unique culture of each office. Recognizing that a 'one-size-fits-all' approach wouldn't work, we collaborated closely with local Office Managers to craft tailored agendas that respect the distinct needs of every location. Subsequently, we established volunteer focus groups in each office to gather feedback on our proposed solutions. These sessions also empowered employees to share firsthand observations and lived experiences regarding sustainability within their specific workspaces.
Progress and "Quick Wins"
We are proud to share several solutions that have already been implemented across our locations:
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Inclusive Kitchens: We have rearranged glassware, mugs, and cutlery to ensure they are stored at a height that is universally accessible to all employees.
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Enhanced Visibility: To assist those with visual impairments, light switches now feature a distinct, contrasting-colored border against the wall.
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Supporting Parents: We have established or upgraded breastfeeding rooms, ensuring they are equipped with comfortable seating and essential hygienic supplies.
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Safety First: All glass doors and large windows are being clearly identified with frosting or signaling strips to prevent accidental collisions.
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Stress Relief Zones: These areas are stocked with items like fidget spinners and coloring books, providing resources to help individuals who concentrate better using alternative methods.
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Door Mechanisms: The Mauritius office has been the first to update their door opening mechanisms to be lighter and easier to operate, enhancing universal accessibility.