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Consultant | 
01/05/25

Are you a Sustainability Department of One? 

Sustainability is increasingly becoming a priority for organisations, with more businesses recognising the importance of reducing their environmental impact, embracing responsible practices and building resilience to climate change. However, in many small and mid-sized companies, sustainability efforts are often managed by a single person – the sustainability manager or coordinator. Being a “department of one” […]

Sustainability is increasingly becoming a priority for organisations, with more businesses recognising the importance of reducing their environmental impact, embracing responsible practices and building resilience to climate change.

However, in many small and mid-sized companies, sustainability efforts are often managed by a single person – the sustainability manager or coordinator. Being a "department of one" in this role comes with unique challenges.

While the opportunity to drive meaningful change is rewarding, the workload, lack of resources, and isolation can be overwhelming. Just some of the challenges you might face include:

  • Overwhelming workload
  • Limited expertise in specialised areas
  • Dynamic legislative landscape
  • Lack of collaboration and isolation
  • High expectations and accountability
  • Difficulty in prioritising strategic sustainability goals
  • Burnout and work-life balance

If you recognise any of these challenges, then read on!

Strategies for sustainability success

While being a sustainability department of one presents significant challenges, there are strategies that can help overcome them. 

  • Clear communication with leadership: essential to ensure that expectations are realistic and that the sustainability goals align with the resources available. 
  • Set achievable priorities: and when necessary, advocate for external support, such as consultants or partnerships with specialised vendors.
  • Technology can be a valuable ally: Automated tools and software designed to track sustainability metrics, monitor energy usage, and manage reporting can help reduce the workload. 
  • Should seek out opportunities for collaboration across departments: Engaging colleagues in other areas of the business, such as procurement, operations, and finance, can foster a company-wide commitment to sustainability and relieve some of the burden.

No or low cost support available for solo sustainability professionals

JRP Solutions have developed some outreach solutions to reduce isolation, build knowledge and provide support across all specialist areas: 

Free 30-minute Consultation

30 minutes with an expert to discuss any aspect of your sustainability challenges and get tailored advice.
Book a free consultation here.

Department of One Private LinkedIn Group

With insights, support and an opportunity to gain knowledge from other organisations.
Join the group here.

One-to-one Mentoring

An hour’s one-to-one mentoring with an expert in the specialism you require. £250 ph.*
Book a free consultation to discuss your requirements.

Ways to Engage Workshops

2-hour online workshops:

-  Engaging the wider organisation: Strategies, info and tips on ways that can work to engage the wider organisation.
-  Looking good: What does good look like for companies with a small, dedicated resource? How do you set your boundaries and manage expectations?

£450 pp
Enquire about workshops here.

Part-time Sustainability Manager

With an ongoing framework agreement to suit your organisation’s needs. 
Book a free consultation to discuss your requirements.

Department of One Networking Drinks

An opportunity for Departments of One’s in Sustainability ‘DOOS’ to get together. A chance to share, question, consult with peers and sustainability experts. This will likely be in September, in Bristol and London.
Please email beth.stanbridge@jrpsolutions.com to make sure you get the invite.

Free Resources

As always, there are lots of free resources available on our website. Factsheets, webinars, videos.
Download here.

*minimum 4 hours.

If you need any support, or want to speak to one of our team about any of the above, you can reach us on 0870 394601 or email info@jrpsolutions.com

Together, we can be a driving force for a more responsible and resilient world.