Baltimore County Green @ Work Energy Challenge

About the Program

Category: County Resiliency (Best in Category)

Year: 2010

The Baltimore County @ Work Challenge encourages and empowers employees to make simple behavior changes in their workplaces to reduce unnecessary energy consumption. The educational campaign asks them to make a pledge to apply the same conservation ethic they would routinely use at home, such as turning off lights in empty rooms, powering down computers and monitors when not in use, recycling, taking the stairs and other similar measures. The program included a launch meeting hosted by the County Executive followed by an email message from him asking employees to participate by making an online pledge to take specific environmentally beneficial and energy conservation actions. Volunteer team captains provided positive reinforcement and support. Bi-weekly electronic newsletter articles provided updates, additional information, and suggestions. The initial campaign concluded with a contest where all participating employees were included in a drawing for a free day off. The program is research-based and incorporates social marketing techniques including the principles of public commitment, social norms, incentives, and multiple message prompts.