Fostering sustainable ways to work in the new digital era

Environmental and climate issues are pressing on life quality and human health every day more and more. That is why we all need to change our way of living and our behavior. When it comes to environmental protection, reducing the carbon footprint as well as efficient use of natural resources, we all have a role to play. Therefore we initiated SustainABLE Project to contribute to the behavioral change of adults working mainly at NGOs/CSOs throughout raising awareness and implementation of sustainable practices at their daily working routines. In addition, this project was driven by the recognition of the need to address sustainability challenges within the civil society sector. The COVID-19 pandemic transformed the way organizations operate and it has highlighted the importance of implementing digital practices. Many of the organizations working in the this sector were unprepared and facing lack of skills and tools to adapt to this new way of working. We found it crucial to bridge knowledge and skill gaps, empowering the organizations to become agents of change regarding sustainability development. Through this project we are focusing on behavioral change showcasing the best practices based on the key principles of sustainability.

Within the SustainABLE project we aimed to contribute to the objectives set by policies such as the EU Green Deal and the commitments outlined in the Green Agenda for Western Balkan, which signal tackling climate change and promoting sustainable development. The primary objectives we wanted to achieve by implementing this project are raising awareness and building the capacity of adult workers working in the civil society sector, regarding sustainable work practices. Through a combination of training activities, campaigns and educational resources, the goal of this project is to empower them to initiate and implement sustainable practices at work within their organizations and communities. Through changing their behavior and improving their knowledge, we believe this project has the potential to translate the newfound understanding into action. By highlighting the opportunities for green and digital transformation, our aim is to foster positive environmental changes that contribute to reduced CO2 emissions. Additionally, through cross-border cooperation we seek to strengthen the capacity of of partner organizations, by expanding our networks and resources so we can support and promote sustainability initiatives more effectively.

Firstly, we conducted readiness diagnostics research (A.2) on NGOs/CSOs in both countries, N. Macedonia and Bulgaria, regarding their current sustainable work practices. The research consisted desk research, online survey and focus groups. Based on the research results, we developed the Roadmap and Guide for sustainable work practices (A.3). In the draft phase of the documents, peer-review activity from NGOs was conducted for feedback and suggestions. In parallel to the Roadmap and Guide we developed a self-assessment tool (A.2) for CSOs for checking the level of compliance with the Roadmap. In the following period we were working at creating a training program (A.4) consisting of 6 Modules and train-the-trainers event (A.5) to test the training program internally among the partner organizations, as well as to share ideas and experiences. The last activity conducted was the pilot activity (A.6) for 3 NGOs per partner, 9 in total, chosen through a public call. In a period of 3 months we were working with the selected NGOs to tailor the Roadmap to their needs and organizational profile. As part of this activity, case studies for the participating organizations in the pilot process were made, including action plan and timeframe.

The concrete outputs and results from our project are: Two National Reports (N. Macedonia and Bulgaria) and 1 Comparative Report from the readiness diagnostics research. The Report presents the main results and gains insights from the conducted research in both countries. Developed self-assessment tool for sustainable work practices on three languages (EN, MK and BG), published online. The tool is available for every organization or institution to check their level of implementation and compliance with our Roadmap for sustainable practices. Roadmap and Guide for sustainable work practices in three languages (EN, MK and BG). Both documents are published online. These 2 documents (publications) are of great importance for the whole implementation of the other activities within the project and are the main outputs from the SustainABLE project. Training Program for sustainable work practices consisting of 6 Modules including learning materials such as presentations and trainer’s guides. Case studies for 9 NGOs (three per partner organization) that took part in the piloting process of the Roadmap for sustainable work practices. The case studies consist action plan and timeframe, and the participating organization received Certificates