What do plastic straws have to do with organisational transformation?

There’s been a lot in the news recently about the problem of plastic waste. Currently, plastic straws and cotton buds are receiving a lot of attention and could be banned in England as part of the government's bid to tackle the issue. But if, as pessimists claim, initiatives like this are a mere drop in the ocean, why bother?

Ok, so what if we don’t bother and do nothing? What would the future look like?

I’m a big fan of the BBC’s Blue Planet, and the final episode of the latest series showed in high definition the catastrophically devastating effect plastic pollution is having on our oceans. Those who have seen the show will know what I mean.

Plastic pollution is – quite rightly – being called a worldwide emergency, with global leaders suddenly rushing around like headless chickens to try and come up with solutions.

Obviously banning plastic straws and cotton buds isn’t the plastics panacea, but it is a small step in the right direction and better than doing nothing. And, small changes can lead to big changes. Since the 5p plastic bag charge was introduced in England, the number of bags used has reduced by more than 80%. It proves that if enough people make small changes then, together, they can make a huge difference.

Organisational change

When organisations are going through any kind of transformation, it’s easy as individuals – especially when up to your eyeballs – to be overwhelmed by the big issues, pessimistic about the outcomes and equally panic-stricken about finding solutions. But don’t be.

Take a second to stop, breath and think about the alternative? What if your organisation didn’t bother and did nothing?

To maintain momentum and positivity it’s important to regularly reflect on what you have achieved so far, but also bear in mind that transformation is an evolution. Things won't change overnight but will gradually move organisations in the right direction. So, if you’re having trouble seeing the wood for the trees (or the cotton bud for the plastic mountain) think about the alternative. And, take comfort that with each small step you’ll be closer to the goal, and that your small step, combined with all of your colleagues’ small steps, makes for a BIG leap!

If this article raises the plastics debate in your office – great. If you and your organisation are also going through a period of change and it reminds you why we’re doing it – even better! And, if you haven’t seen David Attenborough’s gloriously stunning series ‘Blue Planet II’, I thoroughly recommend you do!