Sustainability in Action – Empowering Committed Employees with the Future Building Lab

The long-standing commitment of our employees gave us the courage to start. We see how passionately they drive sustainability alongside their regular work – and how much energy this requires. Knowing that their commitment is essential in the long term, we wanted to invest in the people behind the projects and help them stay effective, motivated and healthy.

The 13 participants gained dedicated time for self-reflection, personal exchange and new perspectives. They gained greater clarity about their roles, developed new ideas for advancing sustainability and strengthened collaboration across sprint teams. Feedback showed renewed motivation and energy, a stronger sense of appreciation and greater confidence in taking the next steps. The workshop strengthened the Green Team professionally and personally and brought the community closer together.

The workshop helped position sustainability as a shared and valued responsibility rather than an additional voluntary commitment. Dedicated working time and management support made this recognition tangible. It also strengthened the community across sprint teams, encouraging closer collaboration, mutual support and a stronger role for sustainability in leadership and company culture. As a result, the Green Team network is better connected and equipped to drive change.

The biggest challenge was finding a facilitator who could bring together sustainability, self-care and team development in a meaningful way. Fortunately, we had already worked successfully with Dr. Kristin Köhler in other formats. Her expertise in nature-based stress regulation, combined with opportunities for exchange and self-reflection, created exactly the right setting. Her warm and supportive approach made the experience especially valuable.

Our biggest learning was that long-term commitment to sustainability requires self-care, exchange and collaboration. Taking time to reflect on our roles, recognise achievements and celebrate small successes proved particularly valuable. We also saw the potential for closer collaboration and mutual support across the sprint teams. Change takes perseverance – but together, we can make it happen.

What we enjoyed most was the variety of the programme: walks and exercises in the botanical garden, open conversations within the group, and learning together through books and videos. The special setting, supportive facilitation and thoughtful details created an atmosphere that encouraged reflection and sparked new ideas. Most of all, it was rewarding to support one another and leave the workshop with renewed energy and enthusiasm for the next steps.