The environmental group Greenrock has restructured, with a board of directors put in place and Gordon Johnson appointed as its first executive director.

Mr Johnson, who joined Greenrock last month with more than 25 years’ experience in the non-profit sector, takes over from outgoing president Judith Landsberg.

Much of his background lies in addiction treatment, starting with the Council for Alcohol and Drugs Abuse (CADA), with a background at the Addiction Research Foundation of Ontario.

“We have a lot of issues to look at — how we treat our environment, treat ourselves and treat issues of sustainability,” Mr Johnson said.

Sustainability has become “very topical” in Bermuda lately, he said, as the economic recession drives businesses and households to examine their energy and food costs.

“It’s become topical through the Spending and Government Efficiency (SAGE) Commission, and from initiatives to save money — we’re seeing a shift in the way we consume, and the way we look at waste, energy and food,” he said.

The move is in line with best practice, according to Nick Campbell, chairman of the board — who said the “more formal framework for governance” would boost Greenrock’s performance.

The green charity is dedicated promoting sustainable living on the Island.

The new governance structure for Greenrock comes after six months of planning. Previously, an all-volunteer management committee ran Greenrock, with hourly stipends paid to vendors with technical expertise.

“While the management committee has done a wonderful job in stewarding Greenrock’s growth over the last ten years, best practices teach us that volunteers are at their most effective when they can rely on a well-organised infrastructure,” Mr Campbell said.

Ms Landsberg remains as deputy chairman of the board, while Matt Carr serves as secretary and Maria do Céu Proiete has been appointed treasurer. Also on the board are Carol Dixon and Dave Zebny.

Ms Landsberg said she took pride in what Greenrock had achieved during her five years with the organisation.

“I am particularly proud of Greenrock’s strong relationships with other charities in Bermuda,” she said. “Our partnerships in the environmental community allow us together to have a greater impact than we could alone.”