Reducing the Use of Expeditionary Energy in the United States Marine Corps: A Behavioral Change Approach [video]

Abstract

The authors have created a body of research that investigates how the United States Marine Corps can more efficiently use fuel and increase its operational effectiveness. In response to the increasing demand for energy that threatens to limit the range and scope of expeditionary operations, the Marine Corps spearheaded a campaign to more effectively use operational energy and instill a mindset of energy efficiency across the Marine Corps. The authors’ research took a systems and behavioral approach to the problem. We observed and analyzed current Marine Corps behaviors, identified best practices in vehicle metering and monitoring, and developed a behavioral change model that is suitable for managing the change in the Marine Corps. The analysis of current behaviors resulted in a framework for action that addressed situational and individual factors and recommended five arenas of action—policy, procedures, education, technology, and culture. The research on industry practices in metering and monitoring showed that effective fuel use is typically part of a whole systems approach to fleet management that accounts for benefits across a vehicle’s lifecycle and is centered around vehicle maintenance. The final round of research integrated the earlier findings and modern change management theories into a comprehensive “portfolio” model for change that offers a customized approach for the Marine Corps and presents clear roles and behaviors for managing change.