A significant proportion of young workers feel their employers neglect sustainability.
- Recent research highlights a growing emphasis on sustainability among UK workers.
- Over half of young employees are calling for more sustainable benefits in the workplace.
- There is a noticeable gap between employees’ expectations and company actions on sustainability.
- The lack of sustainable initiatives is negatively affecting employee morale and talent retention.
Recent studies have shown that a substantial number of young workers in the UK feel their employers are not sufficiently prioritising sustainability. This sentiment is especially pronounced among younger generations, who are increasingly vocal about the need for businesses to take more decisive action on environmental issues.
The research indicates that 51% of employees are urging their companies to increase investment in sustainability, a demand that rises to 61% within the 18-34 age group. This demographic is not just advocating for more sustainability in operations but is also keen on seeing sustainable benefits such as electric vehicles and eco-friendly pension plans.
Significantly, more than 44% of businesses have reported a rise in requests for sustainable benefits. Furthermore, the growing concern for environmental issues is evident in more than half of the employees inquiring about their company’s sustainability practices over the last year. Despite these clear signals, a third of young workers believe their employers are dismissive of these environmental concerns.
The impact of inadequate sustainability efforts is clear, with 42% of young workers citing poor sustainability initiatives as detrimental to their work morale. This situation not only risks demotivating current employees but also poses a threat to attracting new talent who prioritise environmental consciousness in their professional lives.
Matt Russell, CEO of an employee benefits technology company, suggests that businesses face challenges but must now heed these calls for sustainability. He asserts that while emphasis often lies on reducing direct emissions, attention should also shift to offering sustainable benefit packages that cater to individual needs.
Russell also highlights the role of technology in personalising employee benefits, allowing for greater flexibility and the integration of sustainable choices. This approach could play a crucial role in helping the UK achieve its net-zero targets, provided businesses adapt to these shifting expectations.
Current findings reveal that only 29% of employees feel their company’s benefits platform adequately meets their needs, underscoring the need for improved infrastructure. Moreover, 39% desire further investment in these platforms to expand accessibility, demonstrating a collective urge for enhanced sustainable solutions.
Addressing the demands of younger generations for sustainable practices is essential for companies aspiring to retain talent and contribute to broader environmental goals.
