In commemoration of World Earth Day, Zest, an employee benefits technology company Zest, released a report revealing a growing call from employees for their employers to prioritise sustainability efforts. The research underscores a significant generational divide, with younger workers expressing heightened expectations for corporate sustainability initiatives.
According to the study, 51% of employees surveyed expressed a desire for their companies to invest more in sustainability. This sentiment was even more pronounced among younger demographics, with 61% of workers aged 18-34 advocating for increased sustainability measures.
Despite a noticeable shift in employee attitudes towards sustainability, a concerning trend emerged, as one-third (33%) of younger workers believe their employers lack commitment to sustainability. This perception could be contributing to a decline in morale, particularly among younger employees, with 42% of those aged 18-34 stating that inadequate sustainability initiatives negatively impact their motivation at work.
The research also highlights a growing demand for sustainable benefits among employees, such as electric vehicles and sustainable pensions. Over half (53%) of surveyed businesses reported an uptick in requests for sustainable benefits, indicating a clear alignment between employee expectations and corporate offerings.
The role of sustainable benefits packages in enhancing employee satisfaction and attracting top talent, noting their significance in the broader journey towards achieving net-zero emissions.
Matt Russell, CEO of Zest, emphasised the importance of adapting to these changing demands, particularly as younger generations dominate the workforce. He stressed the role of sustainable benefits packages in enhancing employee satisfaction and attracting top talent, noting their significance in the broader journey towards achieving net-zero emissions.
Russell suggested that leveraging employee benefits technology could facilitate the personalisation and accessibility of sustainable benefits, thereby better meeting individual needs. However, the report revealed a gap in current perceptions, with only 29% of employees feeling that their company’s benefits platform adequately supports their needs. Additionally, 39% expressed a desire for increased investment in their company’s benefits platform to enhance accessibility.
In response to these findings, Zest announced plans to host a webinar in collaboration with environment consultants Furthr, focusing on sustainable benefits. The webinar, scheduled for World Earth Day, aims to foster discussion and provide insights into the integration of sustainable practices within corporate benefits packages.
Zest, known for its employee benefits technology, serves over 500 businesses across the UK, including notable companies like Yahoo, NTT, Bakkavor, and Travis Perkins. The company’s proactive approach underscores a commitment to addressing employee concerns and driving positive change towards a more sustainable future.
