The MM Sydney team recently banded together to focus on sustainability with their end-of-month team ‘social event’. Team building with a difference, MM Sydney engaged with Claire Turner from Team Building with Purpose, embarking on a 3-hour ‘Change Makers’ session.
The ‘Change Makers’ event consisted of waste management evaluation, identifying strategies for reducing waste and sharing tips on how all members can lead a more sustainable lifestyle. And of course, it wouldn’t be team building without some friendly competition, with high points and prizes awarded to the most creative team. Corporate team building for good, the ‘Change Makers’ event benefits Clean Up Australia, who will receive 50% of all the profits from the session.
Reflecting on the team building session, Digital Content Writer at MM, Tina Huynh stated: “I was quite surprised at just how little our waste is recycled, it currently sits at under 40%. And if the whole pile is contaminated, none of it can be recycled. I feel like as a society, we can do better.”
Away from usual business, MM Sydney developed various approaches for greater sustainability in a range of contexts like ‘when hosting a party’, ‘in the bathroom’ and ‘regarding fashion’. The team also proposed ideas that could be implemented within the office setting, like creating a food waste system, recycling coffee pods and switching to biodegradable cleaning supplies. Other out-of-the-box ideas were shared with less enthusiasm, such as MM-branded handkerchiefs to reduce waste.
The COO & Lead Facilitator at Team Building with Purpose, Claire Turner, shared her enjoyment of the ‘Change Makers’ session, highlighting MM’s eagerness to become more environmentally conscious.
“Working with the Media Merchants crew in Sydney for their Clean Up Australia ‘Change Makers’ event was a great experience. This highly engaged group generated insights, ah-ha moments and many belly laughs to boot. Their strong connection as a team was clear and it was a pleasure to experience such an inclusive, dynamic culture.”
“The session was both informative and competitive,” Turner continued. “It challenged the team to reflect on Australian sustainability issues, brainstorm alternatives and commit both personally and as a team to practical actions. This was even more relevant given their offices are in the first carbon neutral building in Australia!”
Taking waste management and sustainability outdoors, MM Sydney embarked on a post-lunch clean up in the areas surrounding their new office in Rhodes. The main footpath along the office and railway line was cleaned, with take away packaging being the main culprit. Across the main road at Brays Bay Reserve, the seemingly clean park was indeed not, with many plastic products, fast food packaging and other household items collected. The clean up also served as an opportunity for the team to scout a picnic spot for future office hang outs.
Team building with a difference, and giving back to the community with a clean up – there was simply no better way of spending a gorgeous Friday in Sydney.
