PMcrunch

For many years now, the debate over global warming and environmental consciousness has raged. This debate has become deeply embedded into the political consciousness, especially in the United States, but also elsewhere in the world. One thing is for sure: this debate will continue for a long time to come, and it will be a long time before any claims are proven indisputably accurate. So, the question is, how can we incorporate environmental correctness into our projects and programs?

As project and program managers, we are all responsible for delivering the goods — for projects that entail delivering the products of our projects on time, within budget, and within the required quality standards. For programs, it also entails the broader aspects of delivering on certain strategic goals within our organization. So where does environmental consciousness come in to our projects and programs?

Here are a few things that we can incorporate into our thinking and our actions no matter how the political debate on the environment turns out.

1. Establish best practices for recycling.
2. Consider the environment in all decisions.
3. Practice good conservation of heat and waste management, just as we would or should in our homes.
4. Incorporate environmental considerations into any product design.
5. Consider the end game on the product of our projects, such as "Will something need to be thrown away?"

The important thing on projects and programs is to achieve the results that we are hired to do. However, it is notable that it is just as easy, if not easier, to execute on our responsibilities and maintain the highest level of accountability we can, related to the environment. In so doing, we can lead a political debate to decide.

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John Reiling, PMP
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