Sustainability in the workplace

Sustainability is becoming increasingly important for all UK workers, and our latest research has found it’s a key component for younger workers. As employees become more aware of the environmental impact of their actions, the actions of prospective employers have huge influence on attracting and retaining talent.

In the last three years,* Google search data shows an increased interest around sustainability-based searches:

• ‘Sustainability in the workplace ideas’ searches have increased fivefold
• ‘Sustainability in the workplace’ searches have doubled
• ‘Green initiatives in the workplace’ searches have doubled

A healthy and sustainable workplace can directly lead to happier employees, which in turn increases employee productivity. Anthony Flatt, Head of Energy Management at Bupa UK, shares everything you need to know, along with examples to improve environmental sustainability in the workplace.

Our latest Bupa Wellbeing Index¹ (PDF, 1.7MB) shows that employees want to be more involved in making their workplace sustainable, with around half feeling personally responsible for addressing climate change.

“Almost half of those surveyed said their motivation at work would increase if they were able to contribute eco-friendly and sustainable initiatives to leadership.²

Creating a strong commitment to achieving sustainability goals is essential. Our research found almost half of Gen Z employees are ready to leave their jobs if their employer won’t act on environmental issues. What’s more, 23% would be willing to accept a pay cut to make those initiatives possible.”

What is sustainability?

With sustainability more important than ever to protect workforce longevity, knowing what it involves is key to sustain your business and secure the best talent.

Sustainability means to take care of the planet and its resources to meet today’s needs, without harming the ability of future generations to meet theirs. It involves making choices and taking actions that balance economic, social, and environmental factors, ensuring a longer, healthier, and happier future for everyone. These three sustainability factors in detail are:

• Environmental: The use of natural resources in a way that doesn’t deplete them or harm the environment, for example, aiming to reduce pollution, conserve water and use renewable resources.
• Economic: Investing in alternative energy sources, such as wind power, solar power and hydropower helps businesses monitor energy waste which may lead to savings.
• Social: Taking care of the wellbeing of individuals and communities by ensuring access to healthcare, education, housing and protecting human rights.

Sustainability factors

Making sustainable changes may seem complex, but it can positively impact your company's success in multiple ways. Review the way your business tackles these five factors. Is there anything that you can change in your current setup to influence employee motivation?

1. Prioritise net zero: Despite the cost-of-living crisis, the number of UK SMEs prioritising climate action remains unchanged since before its start.³ Making sustainable investments - such as electric vehicles and solar panels – may not be so costly, either, as in some cases, money can be saved. Many businesses see these investments as long-term security, both for financial savings and environmental gains.⁴
2. Enhanced brand reputation: What businesses is your company associated with? Are they linked to sustainable businesses practices, e.g., are the materials your company uses based on renewable resources? Consumers today are increasingly conscious of the environmental and social impact of their purchases. When your company is associated with responsible business practices, it can attract a loyal customer base and earn trust in the market.
3. Employee engagement: Employees are more likely to be engaged and satisfied when they work for a company that shares their values. Do you communicate your company’s values on sustainability clearly at the point of onboarding, and check in with your team further on to invite feedback? Sustainable workplaces tend to have higher levels of employee morale, which can turn into increased productivity, reduced turnover, and a happier team.
4. Compliance and risk mitigation: As regulations and environmental standards evolve, staying ahead of compliance requirements can save your company from potential legal and financial risks. Consumers may not be too concerned about your lack of environmental practices but legislators certainly will. Do you have a designated employee tasked with keeping up with sustainability regulations and standards?
5. Competitive advantage: Look at your competitors and investigate their sustainability principles. This provides an opportunity to ensure you’re keeping pace, along with devising unique products or services that appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.

Sustainability in the workplace ideas

• Switch to energy efficient appliances and lighting and encourage employees to turn off lights and electronics when not in use. Look into switching to a green tariff through your energy supplier, if possible.
• Promote going paperless by using digital documents instead of printing. Use electronic signatures and store files in the cloud to reduce paper usage.
• Be mindful of the environmental impact your company’s computer servers may have, and prioritise ways to reduce their impact, e.g., investing in renewable energy sources,⁵ energy-efficient servers and disposal methods such as repurposing or recycling.⁶
• Install efficient water fixtures and fix any leaks.
• Offer employees incentives to walk, bike or take public transport to and from work to help reduce traffic, congestion and air pollution. When it comes to meetings, consider whether a face-to-face meeting is necessary or not – could it instead be completed remotely on a video call?
• Choose providers and suppliers that prioritise sustainability and use eco-friendly products and packaging.
• Opt for reusable cups and containers. If possible, implement a food waste program by donating excess food to local charities or composting food scraps.
• Make sure that recycling bins are easily accessible and clearly labelled. Encourage and educate your employees to recycle any materials they can.
• Share information and green tips with your team. Encourage employees to participate in sustainability initiatives and submit their ideas via a suggestion box, online portal, email or at meetings.

By creating an environmental workplace, you are contributing to the world’s sustainability. When making these changes to your lifestyles and businesses, you can create a more sustainable future now and for generations to come – all while attracting motivated talent that shares your values and vision.

*Based on internal UK-based Google data research. Research period: 1st May 2020 – 30th June 2023