Sustainable employee benefits

Sustainable Employee Benefits: The Future of HR

In today’s rapidly evolving world, sustainability is no longer a niche concept; it’s a core value increasingly influencing business strategies and employee expectations. For Human Resources (HR) professionals, this shift presents a unique opportunity to redefine employee benefits and create a positive impact on both the planet and the workforce. It’s time to consider how sustainable employee benefits can shape the future of HR.

Why are Sustainable Employee Benefits Important?

The concept of sustainability has evolved significantly since the term “sustainable development” was introduced by the United Nations (UN) in 1987. Today, there’s a global push for businesses to be more environmentally and socially responsible, with initiatives like the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) established in 2015 and the Paris Agreement also signed in 2015. These global efforts are reshaping financial and economic models, with global ESG assets under management projected to reach $40 trillion by 2030.

This shift also impacts employee expectations and priorities.

The Demand for Sustainable Employee Benefits

Employees, particularly younger generations, are actively seeking out employers who demonstrate a genuine commitment to environmental and social issues. This is not just about having a few green initiatives, but about embedding sustainability into the very fabric of the company culture.

Consider these key statistics:

67% of job seekers are more likely to apply to, and 68% are more likely to accept jobs from, organisations they consider to be environmentally sustainable.
69% of employees want their companies to invest in sustainability efforts, such as reducing carbon emissions, using renewable energy, and cutting down on waste.
A study indicated that 51% of employees would not work for a company that lacks strong policies addressing social or environmental sustainability.
74% of employees find their job more fulfilling when they can positively impact social and environmental issues, and 70% would be more loyal to a company that helps them contribute to solutions.
96% of millennial employees are concerned about the environment and expect their employers to take action.
64% of Gen Z and Millennial workers feel empowered to drive change within their organisations.
There’s a growing trend for employees to seek work environments and cultures that align with their personal values.
59% of business leaders stated that “employee activism” influenced them to increase their sustainability efforts.
93% of employees believe that companies must lead with purpose, which should be clear to stakeholders, employees, and customers.
A company’s CSR efforts significantly contribute to its overall public image, and 77% of consumers are inclined to buy from companies dedicated to improving the world.
72% of employees are more likely to stay with a company that has a strong environmental and social commitment.

These figures demonstrate a clear shift in employee expectations and priorities. It’s no longer enough to offer just a good salary and standard benefits package. Employees are looking for employers that actively contribute to a more sustainable future.

Attracting and Retaining Talent Through Green Benefits

In today’s competitive job market, offering sustainable employee benefits can be a game-changer. By integrating green initiatives into your benefits package, you can:

Attract top talent: Companies with strong sustainability missions are more appealing to job seekers who prioritise working for socially responsible companies. This is especially true for the growing segment of the workforce that includes Millennials and Gen Z, who are drawn to companies that have a clear purpose.
Boost employee engagement: When employees feel their work matters and that they are making a difference, they are more engaged and motivated. Sustainable practices at work show that employers value their well-being, as well as that of the wider world.
Improve employee retention: Employees are more likely to stay with a company that demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and gives them opportunities to contribute positively to society.
Reflect company values: Offering sustainable benefits is an authentic way to demonstrate your organisation’s commitment to ethical and environmental responsibility. This helps build trust with both employees and external stakeholders.
Enhance employer brand: Companies with a sustainability-focused culture stand out and gain a competitive edge, particularly with younger employees.

ChargeWorks: Your Partner in Sustainable Employee Benefits

At ChargeWorks, we understand the growing need for sustainability-focused benefits. Our 1-2-1 energy consultations offer a unique approach by providing employees with bespoke, expert, and impartial advice on how to improve their home energy efficiency and make greener transport choices. This not only helps employees save money, but also contributes to your company’s wider sustainability goals.

Our service helps employees by:

Saving time and effort by providing independent experts.
Providing clear, jargon-free explanations of clean energy and technology.
Offering tailored advice to avoid costly mistakes.
Empowering them to make well-informed decisions with confidence.
Providing a simple online booking portal for hassle-free consultations.
Offering a follow up report summarising all the information discussed.

Our service can help HR managers by:

Providing flexible employer/employee-paid options.
Working to any enrollment schedule and being ready to provide the service from day one.
Offering pilots and trials.
Making onboarding quick and easy.
Providing communications support to promote the service to employees.

By offering ChargeWorks consultations, you can empower your employees to take meaningful action on sustainability and reflect your company’s commitment to a better future.

Ready to learn how our consultations can align your benefits with sustainability goals?

Other ways to contact us

If you’d prefer to simply pick up the phone, you can always call us on: 07874804908 during working hours, or text us using WhatsApp anytime or email info@chargeworks.co.uk

We’re based in Oxford and Devon but work nationwide.