Generation Z and Millennials now represent over half of the UK workforce and are demanding a fresh perspective on business sustainability, social responsibility, and well-being. Employers can no longer attract the brightest talent with an enticing salary alone. In data released by BUPA about Gen Zs:

• 68% are anxious about environmental issues
• 63% feel the burden of climate change on their shoulders
• 43% say that lack of environmental, social and governance (ESG) commitments would affect their mental wellbeing
• 54% would take a pay cut to work with a business that reflects their ethics
• 52% said they would stay longer with a company that had ESG commitments, as well as recommend it as a good place to work
• 53% reported that they felt more satisfied in their jobs when their company had strong ESG commitments

There is no doubt that in a competitive job market, your business needs to recognise that many Gen Zs are willing to put the planet before their personal career progression. A greener approach and mindset have to be a long-term strategy and it is critical to success over your competitors.

There is a multitude of new initiatives you can introduce to boost morale and ensure you are responding to their ESG demands. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Encourage greener travel with electric vehicles and working from home one or two days per week to reduce commuting
• Promote eco-challenges such as running, walking, or cycling to work
• Provide healthier food options in the workplace canteen
• Ensure all office, janitorial and catering supplies are made from environmentally friendly and sustainable materials
• Provide recycling bins for paper, plastic, glass, metals, electricals, and ink cartridges
• Support local charities and community groups with active participation from your employees
• Embrace issues that affect your employees such as mental health, physical well-being, menopause and diversity
• Create an ESG group so that you can get feedback from those who care the most

These policies are relatively simple to implement but it is important that when you embark on your green revolution you are truly committed to sustainability. To be a credible green business you must consider all areas of your business including your supply chain, product materials, packaging, shipping, waste removal, environmental certifications, energy-saving technology, employee travel, an environmental policy, and your commitment to Net Zero.