Fight Global Warming: Take Away an Executive's Shoes and Socks and Introduce Him to the Barefoot Office!

by Jim
(Chicago)

The gentleman above looks understandably sceptical and nervous. Going barefoot has never been associated with well-dressed executives. But this is for the corporate business office and can save a great deal of energy during the summer if it is implemented.

It is well known that allowing feet to breathe in warm weather cools the body and that cooling the soles can cool the entire body quickly.

Introducing a barefoot office would make excellent use of this basic fact. Although social and cultural traditions will make it difficult to introduce, it can be done gradually. And light bamboo sandals can be used.

Separating a hard-charging and powerful executive from his well-polished shoes and his dress socks will not be easy but the savings will make it all worthwhile. He will be both unwilling and uncertain as to whether his authority will be undermined.

Getting the Suits to walk around in their bare feet will be a challenge; it will feel awkward at first as expensive shoes are symbols of power and dignity.

Some gentle coercion might be used at first - such as a small fine for an executive who insist on keeping his shoes on, or a list of names who are the "shoe hold-outs". When he finally gives in and surrenders his designer footwear, he should be ecnouraged and supported.

The contrast between bare feet and pinstiped suits will appear foolish and must produce further environmentally friendly office changes for the men in power.

Eventually neckties, cufflinks, suit jackets and even white shirts will follow, giving way to cooler tee shirts and cotton trouers. The savings on AC will be enormous and the hierarchy of the traditional work office will be transformed as well.