Welcome to the second chapter of 'Lessons Learned,' where we dive into a variety of topics within project management, from niche to trending, Waterfall to Agile or even Hybrid approach. In this chapter, we'll explore the crucial role of sustainability and the significant impact project managers can have in fighting global warming. Join me as we uncover the power of project management in making a difference for our planet.
One might ask, "But how can we be sustainable if we're not the ones producing and manufacturing the resources used?"
Before we dive in, let's discuss some important figures so you can understand where we find ourselves.
Project Management Institute (PMI) defines a project as a "temporary endeavour undertaken to create a unique product, service, or result." Furthermore, they describe project management as the "application of knowledge, skills, tools, and techniques to complete a series of tasks, ultimately delivering value and achieving desired outcomes." These definitions highlight the dynamic nature of projects and the multi-faceted approach required to successfully manage them.
Even though a project is just a temporary endeavour, it can still be sustainable! But what does that mean?
APM: Association for Project Management describes Sustainability in Project Management as "an approach to business that balances the environmental, social, economic aspects of project-based working to meet the current needs of stakeholders without compromising or overburdening future generations."
GPM® Global goes a little deeper. They have given it the name of Green Project Management® or Sustainable Project Management and gives the following meaning: "the application of methods, tools, and techniques to achieve a stated objective while considering the project outcome's entire lifecycle to ensure a net positive environmental, social, and economic impact."
There has been a need for project managers like never before. Forbes published an article titled "25 Million Project Managers In Demand As Median Salaries Soar To $120,000", written by Rachel Wells, where she mentions the need for project managers in the market. She mentions that "roles requiring project management skills and capabilities such as people management, stakeholder management and engagement, budgeting, project planning, and resource management are becoming more of a necessity for most organisations." That's not all; the need for more professionals in this field will continue to grow even more.
PMI published a document in 2021 titled "Narrowing the Talent Gap", which shows alarming numbers and the hard truth about what is to come. The document stated:
"Project management-oriented employment (PMOE)—which includes skilled project managers and those in less formal project management roles that encompass project management skills—makes up 3% of all global employment, equating to 90 million jobs. This is expected to grow to 3.2% or 102 million jobs by 2030. By 2030, at least 13 million project managers are expected to have retired, creating additional challenges for recruitment. To close the gap, 25 million new project professionals are needed by 2030."
These facts and figures highlight the significant influence and impact of project management on the global job market. Understanding the scope of our influence can help us take proactive steps to minimise the environmental footprint and contribute positively toward sustainability efforts.
These are the easily achievable, no-effort-needed actions that can be implemented instantly, also known as the quick wins. Such measures won't normally cost much, if anything, in fact, and it is, in fact, the start of something bigger.
In project management, what comes to mind? From actions to behavioural changes, you can:
Digging deeper into the moral and communal responsibilities associated with project management reveals even more opportunities for positive impact. Project managers play an important role in this by thoroughly researching and understanding the sources of the resources needed for their projects. This includes not only considering the environmental impact but also the social and ethical implications of their choices.
"Do you know where and how your resources are made? Have you done your research on the company you are sourcing from?
Ultimately, as consumers, we have a responsibility to be aware of how our purchases impact society and the environment. While it may seem easier to turn a 'blind responsibility for others' actions or behaviours, the reality is that our choices as consumers directly influence the practices of companies and manufacturers.
By actively seeking out information about how products are made and the processes involved in their production, we can make more informed purchasing decisions. It not only empowers us to support companies that align with our values but also encourages other businesses to adopt more sustainable practices in response to consumer demand. Furthermore, our individual actions collectively drive positive change towards a more sustainable society.
The term 'carbon footprint', according to an article published by Satra named "Measuring Product Carbon Footprint", "is frequently used in relation to the environmental impact of a particular product, process, or even organisation." The Organisational Carbon Footprint "measures the direct and indirect greenhouse gas emissions in terms of CO2, from all activities across an organisation and its supply chain." This is divided into 3 scopes. However, for the sake of this article, I will mention the third scope, which "covers all upstream and downstream indirect emissions created." It includes the indirect ways in which a product adds to its carbon emission. A few examples would be:
Absolutely, taking small steps towards sustainability can lead to significant change over time. Building a curated list of manufacturers and vendors committed to a carbon-zero business model is a great start. By intentionally limiting our options to those aligned with sustainability, we can impose the instant need for other businesses to adapt to the new sustainable order.
It is essential to remain vigilant! Many companies may advertise themselves as carbon-zero without fully understanding or implementing sustainable practices. Therefore, thorough research and verification are crucial to ensure a genuine commitment to sustainability.
Regardless of the industry, superficial planning falls short. Simply ordering materials or equipment without considering their full lifecycle can significantly increase the indirect carbon footprint.
The project management landscape is undergoing a transformation, steering away from traditional processes and methodologies. It now requires individuals and companies to adopt a new ethos and structure to live by. Below, we'll explore the natural evolution of projects:
As we've seen, the traditional focus of projects on time, cost and scope is no longer the sole priority. The evolution of project management demands a heightened social consciousness, fostering values and a responsibility that extends beyond the confines of the 'iron triangle'.
Looking ahead, it's crucial to proceed methodically, beginning with a measured approach. However, adapting to the six principles for sustainable projects outlined by GPM is essential:
In closing, let's reflect on the principle of reciprocity, where we feel compelled to reciprocate favours. I prefer to see it through a more optimistic lens, adapting to the idea of reaping what you sow. With this perspective, let's embrace the leap of faith and trust that our good deeds will be rewarded in diversity by the universe. And to wrap up, I leave you with this thought-provoking quote that resonated with me deeply:
"Inexperience is what makes a young man do what an older man says is impossible." - Herbert V. Prochnow (Businessman and Writer).
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