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10 OKR examples for Sustainability

What are Sustainability OKRs?

The Objective and Key Results (OKR) framework is a simple goal-setting methodology that was introduced at Intel by Andy Grove in the 70s. It became popular after John Doerr introduced it to Google in the 90s, and it's now used by teams of all sizes to set and track ambitious goals at scale.

Creating impactful OKRs can be a daunting task, especially for newcomers. Shifting your focus from projects to outcomes is key to successful planning.

We have curated a selection of OKR examples specifically for Sustainability to assist you. Feel free to explore the templates below for inspiration in setting your own goals.

If you want to learn more about the framework, you can read our OKR guide online.

How to write your own Sustainability OKRs

Option 1. Turn ideas into OKRs with Tability AI

While we have some examples available, it's likely that you'll have specific scenarios that aren't covered here.

You can use Tability's AI generator to create tailored OKRs based on your specific context. Tability can turn your objective description into a fully editable OKR template -- including tips to help you refine your goals.

Tability will then use your prompt to generate a fully editable OKR template.

Watch the video below to see it in action 👇

Option 2. Optimise existing OKRs with Tability Feedback tool

If you already have existing goals, and you want to improve them. You can use Tability's AI feedback to help you.

AI feedback for OKRs in TabilityTability's Strategy Map makes it easy to see all your org's OKRs

Tability will scan your OKRs and offer different suggestions to improve them. This can range from a small rewrite of a statement to make it clearer to a complete rewrite of the entire OKR.

You can then decide to accept the suggestions or dismiss them if you don't agree.

Option 3. Use the free OKR generator

If you're just looking for some quick inspiration, you can also use our free OKR generator to get a template.

Unlike with Tability, you won't be able to iterate on the templates, but this is still a great way to get started.

Sustainability OKRs examples

You'll find below a list of Objectives and Key Results templates for Sustainability. We also included strategic projects for each template to make it easier to understand the difference between key results and projects.

Hope you'll find this helpful!

OKRs to develop a sustainability-centered facility management plan

  • ObjectiveDevelop a sustainability-centered facility management plan
  • KRIdentify 3 potential areas of improvement for energy efficiency within the facility
  • TaskInspect HVAC systems for potential energy losses
  • TaskConduct an energy audit to detect high-energy consuming systems
  • TaskInvestigate lighting fixtures for energy efficiency possibilities
  • KRCreate a plan incorporating sustainability measures, covering waste management and water conservation
  • TaskDevelop plan integrating discovered sustainability measures
  • TaskIdentify water conservation methods applicable to your setting
  • TaskResearch waste management techniques that prioritize recycling and composting
  • KRImplement one major sustainability initiative from the plan and measure the impact
  • TaskMeasure and record the initiative's impact
  • TaskSelect a major sustainability initiative from the plan to implement
  • TaskImplement the chosen sustainability initiative

OKRs to enhance our company's overall sustainability management practices

  • ObjectiveEnhance our company's overall sustainability management practices
  • KRReduce company's carbon footprint by 15% through incorporating green energy solutions
  • TaskImplement a company-wide recycling program to decrease waste
  • TaskSet up telecommuting options to reduce employee commuting
  • TaskInstall renewable energy systems like solar panels or wind turbines
  • KRAchieve a 25% reduction in overall energy consumption through energy efficient modifications
  • TaskImplement a company-wide energy conservation policy
  • TaskEnhance insulation in walls, ceilings, and floors
  • TaskInstall energy-efficient appliances and light fixtures
  • KRImplement a recycling program resulting in 20% fewer office waste
  • TaskIntroduce recycling bins and clear signage displaying what can be recycled
  • TaskConduct staff training to ensure understanding and compliance with recycling practices
  • TaskDetermine current waste volume to calculate the 20% reduction target

OKRs to increase foot and public transit commutes

  • ObjectiveIncrease foot and public transit commutes
  • KRReduce private vehicle use for work commutes by 25%
  • TaskSubsidize public transit costs for employees
  • TaskPromote carpooling and ride-share programs among employees
  • TaskImplement telecommuting opportunities for suitable roles
  • KRImplement 10 walking routes in high-traffic areas by end of quarter
  • TaskInstall markers and/or signage for each walking route
  • TaskDesign walking routes ensuring safety and accessibility
  • TaskIdentify 10 high-traffic areas suitable for walking routes
  • KRDevelop 5 partnerships with local businesses for transit subsidy programs
  • TaskArrange meetings to present proposal
  • TaskIdentify potential local businesses for partnership
  • TaskDraft proposal outlining benefits of the subsidy program

OKRs to optimize PATTERNS's water resource sustainability and quality

  • ObjectiveOptimize PATTERNS's water resource sustainability and quality
  • KRIncrease water recycling rates by 20% using new technologies
  • TaskResearch and invest in innovative water recycling technology
  • TaskImplement new tech into current water recycling system
  • TaskTrain staff on new water recycling procedures
  • KRReduce water waste by 15% with efficient operational procedures
  • TaskRegularly check and repair any plumbing leaks
  • TaskUse water-saving appliances and devices
  • TaskImplement automatic shut-off faucets in all sinks
  • KRImprove water quality index by 25% by implementing effective filtration techniques
  • TaskInitiate community education about proper water usage and conservation
  • TaskPurchase advanced water filtration systems for all water sources
  • TaskEmploy professionals for routine maintenance of filtration systems

OKRs to achieve sustainable reduction in operational cost

  • ObjectiveAchieve sustainable reduction in operational cost
  • KRReduce supplier expenses by negotiating contracts for a 10% cost decrease
  • TaskImplement negotiation meetings with respective suppliers
  • TaskDevelop a negotiation strategy for cost reduction
  • TaskIdentify key suppliers and analyze current contract terms
  • KRImplement automation processes in at least 2 departments to increase efficiency by 15%
  • TaskResearch and procure suitable automation tools
  • TaskImplement and monitor the automation processes
  • TaskIdentify processes in two departments that can be automated
  • KRCut energy consumption by adopting sustainable practices resulting in 20% savings
  • TaskInstall energy-efficient appliances replacing outdated ones
  • TaskImplement automated controls for heating, cooling, and lighting
  • TaskConduct regular energy audits to identify wastage areas

OKRs to increase financial sustainability of our non-profit organisation

  • ObjectiveIncrease financial sustainability of our non-profit organisation
  • KRSecure funds for 2 years of operation by applying to at least 10 grants
  • TaskPrepare and finalize grant applications
  • TaskResearch potential grants suitable for business operations
  • TaskSubmit applications to a minimum of 10 grant bodies
  • KRRaise $50,000 in fundraising campaigns by targeting corporate sponsorship and public donations
  • TaskLaunch campaign to solicit public donations
  • TaskDevelop compelling sponsorship packages to attract sponsors
  • TaskIdentify potential corporate sponsors for targeted outreach
  • KRDecrease operational expenses by 10% through cost-effective resource utilization
  • TaskRenegotiate supplier contracts for favorable terms
  • TaskImplement energy-saving practices across operations
  • TaskIdentify underutilized resources and reassign for maximum efficiency

OKRs to implement a sustainable system for organizational growth

  • ObjectiveImplement a sustainable system for organizational growth
  • KRDecrease operational inefficiencies by 20% through sustainable strategies
  • TaskTrain staff on environmentally-friendly waste disposal practices
  • TaskEstablish paperless document management system for streamlined operations
  • TaskImplement energy-efficient equipment across all operational lines
  • KRSave 15% of business expenses by adopting sustainable practices and policies
  • TaskPromote recycling or composting to lower waste management costs
  • TaskDecrease paper usage by promoting digital solutions
  • TaskImplement energy-efficient equipment to reduce power bills
  • KRTrain 80% of the team on sustainability best practices by end of quarter
  • TaskSchedule and conduct training sessions for the team
  • TaskIdentify relevant sustainability best practices for training
  • TaskDevelop a comprehensive sustainability training program

OKRs to secure BUMA's competitive sustainability and future-readiness

  • ObjectiveSecure BUMA's competitive sustainability and future-readiness
  • KRReduce operational costs by 10% through process improvements
  • TaskImplement automation to reduce manual tasks
  • TaskIdentify inefficient processes for optimization
  • TaskTrain employees on new streamlined procedures
  • KRIncrease employee productivity by 15% via implementing advanced training programs
  • TaskDevelop and implement the chosen advanced training programs
  • TaskMonitor and measure the impact of training on productivity
  • TaskIdentify the necessary training programs for employee skills enhancement
  • KRDevelop three innovative product features to enhance customer value proposition
  • TaskBrainstorm unique features improving existing product functionality
  • TaskConduct market research to identify customer needs and interests
  • TaskPrototype, test, and refine chosen features

OKRs to boost our company's corporate social responsibility (CSR) involvement and visibility

  • ObjectiveBoost our company's corporate social responsibility (CSR) involvement and visibility
  • KRIncrease the number of CSR projects by 20%
  • TaskGet executive approval for CSR expansion
  • TaskAllocate resources to support an increased CSR project
  • TaskIdentify potential partners and causes for new CSR projects
  • KRInvolve 70% of staff in volunteering activities related to CSR
  • TaskSet up regular volunteer opportunities with local charities
  • TaskPublicize volunteering events through internal communication channels
  • TaskIdentify interests of staff for suitable CSR activities
  • KRDecrease carbon footprint by 15% through energy-efficient initiatives
  • TaskInstall energy-efficient appliances and lighting
  • TaskEstablish company-wide recycling program
  • TaskImplement solar panels to generate renewable power

OKRs to develop a sustainable design concept for the company's operations

  • ObjectiveDevelop a sustainable design concept for the company's operations
  • KRReduce overall design-related waste by 25% by optimizing resources and production processes
  • TaskMonitor and revise production procedures regularly
  • TaskReview current design processes for inefficiencies
  • TaskImplement resource optimization strategies
  • KRIncorporate 3 new sustainable elements into existing product design by the quarter end
  • TaskTest and adjust new product design
  • TaskIdentify 3 potential sustainable elements for inclusion
  • TaskRedesign product incorporating selected elements
  • KRTrain the entire design team on sustainability practices and their importance by quarter-end
  • TaskSet up training sessions for the design team
  • TaskIdentify relevant sustainability practices and training resources
  • TaskEvaluate and discuss post-training sustainability implementation

Sustainability OKR best practices

Generally speaking, your objectives should be ambitious yet achievable, and your key results should be measurable and time-bound (using the SMART framework can be helpful). It is also recommended to list strategic initiatives under your key results, as it'll help you avoid the common mistake of listing projects in your KRs.

Here are a couple of best practices extracted from our OKR implementation guide 👇

Tip #1: Limit the number of key results

Focus can only be achieve by limiting the number of competing priorities. It is crucial that you take the time to identify where you need to move the needle, and avoid adding business-as-usual activities to your OKRs.

We recommend having 3-4 objectives, and 3-4 key results per objective. A platform like Tability can run audits on your data to help you identify the plans that have too many goals.

Tip #2: Commit to weekly OKR check-ins

Having good goals is only half the effort. You'll get significant more value from your OKRs if you commit to a weekly check-in process.

Being able to see trends for your key results will also keep yourself honest.

Tip #3: No more than 2 yellow statuses in a row

Yes, this is another tip for goal-tracking instead of goal-setting (but you'll get plenty of OKR examples above). But, once you have your goals defined, it will be your ability to keep the right sense of urgency that will make the difference.

As a rule of thumb, it's best to avoid having more than 2 yellow/at risk statuses in a row.

Make a call on the 3rd update. You should be either back on track, or off track. This sounds harsh but it's the best way to signal risks early enough to fix things.

How to track your Sustainability OKRs

Your quarterly OKRs should be tracked weekly in order to get all the benefits of the OKRs framework. Reviewing progress periodically has several advantages:

Most teams should start with a spreadsheet if they're using OKRs for the first time. Then, once you get comfortable you can graduate to a proper OKRs-tracking tool.

If you're not yet set on a tool, you can check out the 5 best OKR tracking templates guide to find the best way to monitor progress during the quarter.

More Sustainability OKR templates

We have more templates to help you draft your team goals and OKRs.

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