Three fifths (58%) of UK workers would consider changing their current role for a “greener” career, according to Aviva’s How We Live report.
Almost 64 percent would consider taking a pay cut if a new role offered other benefits, says the report.
The study suggests that this attitude is more prevalent in some sectors than in others. Workers in finance and engineering are among those most likely to hold this view at 70 percent.
The percentage of those who work in education who would consider switching to a “green” career is 58 percent, and 54 percent for those working in travel and transport.
Are employers currently adopting many green policies?
Three quarters of workers reported that their employer has made changes to improve its environmental impact in the last five years – although 75 percent of people within this group feel there is still more to do.
More than a fifth (21%) of workers say that they are already participating in initiatives to make their employer more environmentally friendly.
It is also encouraging to note the variety of green schemes in the workplace which are already being implemented.
Nearly three quarters (68%) report that a cycle-to-work/bike loan scheme is being offered at their workplace.
Also, a further 60 percent report that their workplace offers subsidised public transport/loans for transport season tickets.
These reassuring numbers continue, with 77 percent of employees reporting that single-use plastics have been removed from the workplace.
MD, Partnerships at Avia General Insurance, Jon Marsh, says: “Sustainability is very much on the radar for businesses large and small and it is positive news that so many UK people are bringing green thinking into their working routines, as well as their personal lives.”
“The latest How We Live data shows that a great many employees are already involved in environmental initiatives in their workplace – from simply re-using cups, to limiting unnecessary travel, to making use of electric vehicle leasing schemes,” Marsh adds.
Green schemes: an important employee retention strategy
Whilst employers are currently adopting a variety of green workplace schemes, an increasing focus on environmental policies is essential as more employees view it as important.
“Three quarters of workers acknowledge that their employer has made environmental progress in the past five years – but they want to do more to make a difference. This could mean actions taken in a current role or switching to a position with a more environmental focus – but the emphasis on green career ambitions is clear,” says Marsh.
Amelia Brand is the Editor for HRreview, and host of the HR in Review podcast series. With a Master’s degree in Legal and Political Theory, her particular interests within HR include employment law, DE&I, and wellbeing within the workplace. Prior to working with HRreview, Amelia was Sub-Editor of a magazine, and Editor of the Environmental Justice Project at University College London, writing and overseeing articles into UCL’s weekly newsletter. Her previous academic work has focused on philosophy, politics and law, with a special focus on how artificial intelligence will feature in the future.
