Association for Behavior Analysis International

The Association for Behavior Analysis International® (ABAI) is a nonprofit membership organization with the mission to contribute to the well-being of society by developing, enhancing, and supporting the growth and vitality of the science of behavior analysis through research, education, and practice.

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38th Annual Convention; Seattle, WA; 2012

Event Details


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Symposium #329
Approaching a Sustainable Culture: Green Programs in Business and Society
Monday, May 28, 2012
10:30 AM–11:50 AM
602 (Convention Center)
Area: CSE/OBM; Domain: Applied Research
Chair: Thomas Wade Brown (University of Nevada, Reno)
Discussant: William L. Heward (The Ohio State University)
Abstract: The climate crisis in the scope of global enterprises poses a significant danger for human civilization. Recently, behavioral scientists have recognized this concern, and have begun to incorporate principles from the experimental analysis of behavior to climate-relevant affairs such as sustainability, consumption, and green behaviors. In this symposium, the application of behavioral technology is discussed in relation to approaching a sustainable environment. We report of commendable innovations in business settings that currently employ their own green initiatives in the distribution and hospitality sectors. In addition, a program of research that targets societal populations with respect to gas consumption will be discussed. Future research will be addressed along with suggestions on forming collaborative relationships between behavioral researchers and local organizations. Implications for behavior analysts interested in continuing work in targeting green behavior for lasting change will also be examined.
Keyword(s): Field Reports, OBM, Sustainability
 

Driving Green: Toward the Prediction and Influence of Efficient Driving Behavior

WILLIAM D. NEWSOME (University of Nevada, Reno), Mark P. Alavosius (University of Nevada, Reno)
Abstract:

The broad generality of behavioral principles facilitates their application to a wide variety of socially relevant problems. This study aims to bring sophisticated behavioral and physical technologies to bear upon the unnecessary depletion of natural resources, specifically, through the identification of conditions supportive of more efficient driving behavior. We posit that systematic measurements, analyses and interventions guided by behavioral principles will lead to pragmatic prescriptions for generating more fuel efficient driving repertoires.

 

Sustainability in the Field: Lake Tahoe Hospitality and Environmental Protection

EMILY MICHELLE LEEMING (University of Nevada, Reno), David Hansen (Embassy Suites Lake Tahoe Hotel & Ski Resort), Mark P. Alavosius (University of Nevada, Reno)
Abstract:

Lake Tahoe, the largest alpine lake in North America and surrounded by the Sierra Nevada Mountains, is widely regarded as a premier vacation destination offering year-round activities. The Lake Tahoe Basin is home to approximately 66,000 permanent residents with approximately 3,000,000 visitors annually. Lake Tahoe provides a high visibility laboratory to study climate change and human behavior and is routinely monitored to create a record of change in one of the world's most beautiful and vulnerable alpine lakes. The Embassy Suites Lake Tahoe, a Hilton Corporation hotel located in South Lake Tahoe, California, has become a leader in green lodging by installing technological upgrades, using behavior based programs to encourage guests and employees to engage in ecologically friendly practices, and influencing local individuals and business to adopt similar initiatives. This talk describes the innovative sustainability efforts within the Embassy Suites Lake Tahoe resort as a practical example of environmental stewardship. The impacts of these efforts indicate that investments in green technologies and practices can have positive impact on the environment as evidenced by reduced costs associated with energy use and waste. Additionally the "green" initiatives described align with community values towards environmental preservation and positively affect business outcomes.

 

Distributing Green Practices: Sustainability in a Supply Chain

SANDY KNOTT (Supervalu, Inc.), Don Kernan (Supervalu, Inc.), Molli Luke (University of Nevada, Reno), Mark P. Alavosius (University of Nevada, Reno)
Abstract:

This talk considers environmentally significant behaviors and outcomes changed by applying behavior management to work practices related to energy conservation, recycling, and employee education with a supply chain. Supervalu, Inc. is a major grocery/pharmacy distributor in the United States. Several distribution centers have been recognized for exemplary behavioral safety programs. Using CAM (Critical Activities Management), behavioral approaches to worker safety have been extended to behavioral targets related to productivity and sustainability. This talk describes the CAM process and presents data indicating the impact of these efforts.

 

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