Environmental Sustainability Practices In Special Information Organizations In Kenya: The Case Of Kenya Bureau Of Standards

Abstract

This study sought to assess environmental sustainability practices in special information organizations in Kenya with special reference to Kenya Bureau of Standards. The specific objectives of the study were to establish the level of awareness creation by the library staff on environmental sustainability practices in special information organizations, examine environmental sustainability practices applied in the operations of special information organizations, establish the role of information professionals in support of environmental sustainability practices and propose possible strategies for adoption to promote environmental sustainability practices. The study applied a mixed method approach where both qualitative and quantitative data was collected and mixed at analysis, discussion and reporting levels. Multiple sampling methods were used including purposive sampling to determine the area of study, stratified random sampling to accommodate various departments at KEBS and simple random sampling to select a sample size of 106 respondents from a total target population of 723 staff members. In addition, seven members of staff from six departments which had highest number of staff were also interviewed. The study employed interview guides, questionnaires, document analysis and observation methods to collect data from respondents. Kenya Bureau of Standards was purposely selected for the study as the organization works with the public to provide and ensure standardization solutions in production and manufacturing industry for sustainable development and environmental protection. Kenya Bureau of Standards library is based at the headquarters office and houses standardization information on environmental protection. Quantitative data was analyzed using Microsoft Excel application and presented in form of charts, graphs, tables of frequencies and percentages while qualitative data was analyzed through Statistical Package for Social Sciences in accordance to the study themes based on the objectives and research questions and discussions were reported. Findings revealed that the level of awareness creation on environmental sustainability practices is low since KEBS library staff have not implemented methods of awareness creation to the users. KEBS library has not embraced the concept of environmental sustainability to integrate green movement practices in the library operations. There are no strategies and structures put in place to implement and evaluate environmental sustainability practices signifying lack of awareness creation on sustainability matters. Institutions need to create awareness on environmental sustainability practices for staff and clients, conduct staff training, policy formulation and implementation and frequently conduct monitoring and evaluation to ensure implementation of the sustainability policy. Information professionals and other stakeholders in the environment sector need to promote and support effective implementation of environmental sustainability programs, policies and practices in institutional operations.