Sander van den Berg on sustainability: Without motivation, it doesn’t work
As a Product Developer at CFP Green Buildings, Sander van den Berg works on sustainable solutions every day. But for Sander, sustainability means more than just technical innovations. In this interview, he shares how his perspective on sustainability has evolved, the challenges he has taken on, and how he makes sustainability both inspiring and fun.
What does sustainability mean to you, Sander? And how has your perspective changed over the years?
“Sustainability always used to be mostly technical for me: energy savings and making buildings energy-neutral with sustainable energy generation. But over the years, my perspective has broadened. Transport, food, clothing, and even sustainable business practices with happy employees – as highlighted by WELL certification – are just as important now. It’s about the bigger picture.”
Do you have any sustainable resolutions for the new year?
“I don’t make resolutions on January 1st; that doesn’t work for me. Small, gradual changes are much more effective. For example, over the past year, I started eating less meat. As a self-proclaimed carnivore, that was a challenge, but now we eat at least two vegetarian meals per week at home. That feels like a good step.”
How do you motivate others around you to live or work more sustainably?
“At work, that’s not necessary; I actually learn from my colleagues there. At home, it’s a different story. My four teenagers still have room to improve when it comes to healthier and more sustainable living and reducing waste. We try to improve this daily, but it’s all about small steps.”
What do you think is the most underestimated step toward living more sustainably?
“The key is not to think in big steps but to integrate sustainability gradually into your life. Small changes are easier to maintain and will naturally bring you closer to your goal. And make it fun – without motivation, it won’t work.”
How do you keep sustainability fun and inspiring?
“My daughter once said, ‘Dad, you could never go a week without meat.’ That was all the motivation I needed to take on a month-long vegetarian challenge. It turned out to be surprisingly fun as we discovered alternatives and tried new recipes. My kids had to join in too, and while their enthusiasm varied, we managed to do it. So my tip: turn it into a challenge and reward yourself when you succeed!”
Want to work at CFP too?
Sander shows how small steps and challenges contribute to sustainability, both at work and at home. Would you like to make an impact at CFP? Check out our vacancies and discover how you can contribute to a more sustainable future!
