Ryan FowlerZest, an employee benefits technology firm, has unveiled research suggesting a significant interest among UK workers, especially the younger generation, for companies to enhance their commitment to sustainability. Fifty-one percent of all employees and sixty-one percent of those aged 18-34 desire to see their employers invest more in sustainable practices.
The study highlights that 53% of workers want more eco-friendly benefits, such as electric vehicles and sustainable pensions, a sentiment that rises to two-thirds among 18–34-year-olds. Additionally, 44% of businesses have observed a rise in requests for sustainable benefits, with 53% recognising an increased interest in sustainability among their employees over the past year.
Despite this growing interest, a gap remains between employee expectations and company actions, with a third of young workers feeling their employers do not prioritise sustainability. This disconnection has repercussions, with 42% of the younger workforce believing inadequate sustainability efforts negatively impact their workplace morale and may deter new talent.
Matt Russell, CEO of Zest, reflects on the findings: “It’s been a difficult few years for businesses, and the reality is that many – often not by choice – have been forced to put their sustainability initiatives on hold. Yet with the next generation increasingly populating the workforce, many of whom are naturally engaged in sustainability initiatives that will support their future, businesses must adapt to these changing demands. While many businesses will be focused on scope 1 and 2 emissions, a key area that can be overlooked in sustainability is benefits packages, for example electric vehicle schemes or sustainable pension funds. Not only will a greater focus on this better meet individual needs, improving overall employee proposition and the ability to attract and retain talent, but crucially it will assist with the UK’s broader journey to net zero.”
The research also points to technology as a facilitator for more customized and sustainable benefits. However, currently, only 29% of employees feel that their company’s benefits platform caters to individual needs, and 39% wish for further investment in benefits platforms to improve accessibility.
