Workplace Democracy in Practice

Photo by Jake Gard on Unsplash

Overview: Eliminating waste in a sustainable, fruitful way is a primary goal of those working tirelessly to protect our environment. At Rust Belt Riders, a Cleveland, Ohio based organization, the mission is to direct food waste away from landfills and use it to create their own soil blend that will “[nourish] the very food” grown across their area. They collect food waste from both commercial organizations and residential areas, all in an effort to create a food production system that protects the environment.

Just as vital as the work they are doing is the means by which they are doing it. Not only are they a worker cooperative, but workplace democracy is at the heart of every decision they make.

Why it Matters: In operation since 2014, Rust Belt Riders is an organization that is clearly thriving and seeking to effect real change in the way we grow our food. Their story, and other organizations like theirs, is a testament to the fact that workplace democracy works. Innovative organizations such as these can serve as a model for firms looking to implement democracy in the workplace.

Dig Deeper: To learn more about Rust Belt Riders commitment to workplace democracy and protecting the environment, check out this article.