Frequently asked questions

Who can take part

• Is Green Foundation relevant for my job role?
  We've designed the programmes for influencers at all levels, including mid to senior management, within businesses and organisations across the UK – but we believe that it could benefit any employee. Talk to our team about which programme would suit you best.
• Do I have to work for a green business to take part?
  There are no restrictions on the type of industry or sector, or your level of sustainability practice.
• Can I take part as a sole trader?
  Yes, we welcome individuals running their own company. You will still take part in the business exchange (on the five-day programme) and we can help you come up with ideas for a venue to hold it at.
• Can my whole team take part?
  Yes, we offer a bespoke programme for teams or department of 25 – 500 employees.

The Green Foundation courses

• How long are the courses?
  We run two-day and five-day programmes. Or your business can choose a bespoke programme for your whole team or department, which suits you.
• When can I start?
  Start dates are available every month. Contact the team to find out more.
• Where do the sessions take place?
  You'll be at the Eden Project site for the programmes. One day of the five-day programme is given over to a reciprocal business exchange, which takes place both in your own workplace and at a regional business location.
• Who is delivering the programme?
  Facilitators and practitioners from a combination of the Eden Project and other local organisations and businesses deliver Green Foundation sessions. Read about our team.
• How many of us would there be on each workshop?
  We aim for groups of around 20 people on our two- and five-day courses, but can accomodate 25 – 500 employees on bespoke programmes for teams and departments.
• What do I need to bring with me on the day?
  Everything will be provided, including supporting material, so all you need is an open mind, a sense of humour and the willingness to try something new.
• Do I get any supporting material?
  Individuals receive a pack at the beginning of the programme that guides you through the course, the business exchange (five-day programme only) and what you can do back at your workplace once you've completed the programme.
• Would I have to do homework?
  No – there will not be any tasks to be completed outside the time spent at Eden. However, after the programme you are encouraged to follow up on what you've learnt back at your workplace.
• What should I wear?
  We recommend informal, practical clothes, because you will be moving around the Eden Project site.

The business exchange

• What happens during the business exchange?
  This is an integral part of the five-day programme. Your business would host a Green Foundation participant for half a day, and in return you would spend half a day at their workplace. During this time, you work together to explore how your businesses could improve their sustainability credentials.
• What would I need to provide for the exchange employees?
  It's up to the host business to decide the structure of the day, but the Green Foundation team will provide guidance in advance and is available for support during the exchange If you are a sole trader who works from home you can meet your exchange partner in a public venue such as a café, or perhaps at the workplace of one of your suppliers, where you can discuss the topics together.
• How do I choose which business to do an exchange with?
  We will help you identify a suitable business to partner with from within the Green Foundation programme, and give you guidance on setting this up.
• Does my business have to offer an exchange?
  If you feel your business is not able to offer an exchange, please let us know when you apply. We will endeavour to arrange for you to visit another business that is taking part in the programme and is willing to act as host for several participants.

After the programme

• Do I get a qualification or certificate?
  When you complete the full programme, you become part of Eden's Green Foundation network, which you can mention in PR, marketing and sales. Taking part in Green Foundation has contributed towards participating businesses being shortlisted for – and winning! – sustainability awards.
• Does Green Foundation count towards Continuing Professional Development?
  Yes, your time on the programme counts towards CPD.
• Do I need to do anything after the programme?
  The idea is that you take forward an action plan that you have come up with on the course. We hope that you also collaborate with the other businesses that have taken part in Green Foundation – to share ideas on how to implement new ideas, or to collaborate on new ventures.

How to enroll on Green Foundation

• How can I get more information before I sign up?

  Please contact us by email, phone (01726 818597) or via our enquiry form.

  We'd be very happy to come and meet you at your workplace, to explain the programme in more detail and help you understand what it could bring to your business.