Programs for the Workplace

The Northwest Earth Institute offers ready made programs requiring minimal input from management, designed to foster high-quality and effective sustainability education.  NWEI programs serve to align organizational values with employee actions, moving employees towards greater internal consensus on sustainability innovations.  NWEI discussion programs have been offered in businesses and workplaces throughout North America, including Standard Insurance, Intel, Hewlett Packard, Adidas, Nike, Microsoft, Heifer International and Starbucks. 

Download NWEI's Introductory Packet for Businesses

Whether offered in conjunction with company wide sustainability initiatives or as part of informal brown bag lunch series, NWEI small group employee education programs are both informative and engaging, and play an essential role in both sustaining and aligning organizational commitment with sustainability initiatives.

In 2008, a new study shows that over 90% of employees want more sustainability training.  NWEI programs provide just this.  Read Sustainable Life Media's article on the importance of employee engagement and education. 

NWEI courses began in and were initially designed for the workplace setting.  The first course was created for law firms in the Portland area by founder Dick Roy, a corporate attorney of 23 years. 

Read more about NWEI's beginnings

Learn about specific study guides for small groups available through NWEI as programs for your workplace.

Download NWEI's Tips for Creating a Successful Sustainability Plan

What people are saying

 
“NWEI courses complement Starbucks commitment to sustainability by enriching internal discussions and giving participants a clear understanding of their direct role in the conservation of natural resources. As a result, these individuals are better equipped to assess environmental issues and embrace innovative solutions in the workplace and in their personal lives. We highly recommend NWEI programs to organizations that believe in driving change from the inside-out.”

"The tangible benefits of offering NWEI programs at Intel include greater employee awareness of sustainability as an issue, greater employee participation in our employee sustainability network, and increased employee ability to discuss the changes necessary for a more positive ecological impact by our business. After participating in NWEI discussion courses, Intel employees want to get more involved in creating positive change across our business, from commuter habits to workplace recycling to natural resource consumption. Some specific examples include paper cup reduction, car free commuting options, and investments in alternative energy sources like wind and solar.

The motivating factor for offering NWEI discussion courses at Intel is the long history of success we have had inside Intel with these courses. They are very popular, their popularity is growing, and the feedback from participants is very positive. The discussion courses are an integral component of our employee sustainability network."

“Participating in NWEI courses has changed who I am. The discussion groups are an excellent format for sharing your ideas in a safe environment.  It lets you know you’re not alone.  Sometimes it’s hard to actually make a life-changing commitment based on the new ideas you’ve encountered, but it’s easier to take that step when you know others are taking it with you.  I feel like I am a stronger global community member as a result of the thinking, discussing, and acting that the NWEI courses facilitate.”

"The Standard has been a supporter of NWEI and is excited to provide opportunities for our employees to engage and learn about creating a sustainable environment.  The Standard is committed to pushing forward in creating the forum where individuals can work together in making our community a better place to live and do business.  Our company is proud to support NWEI and encourages others to do the same."

-The Standard Insurance Company

Interested in Corporate Giving? Email kerry@nwei.org