In light of World Earth Day, new research has found that workers across the UK are increasingly focused on sustainability and expect their employers to do more – particularly younger generations.

Half of employees are keen to see their company invest more in sustainability, rising to 61% of younger workers aged 18-34.

The research from Zest also reveals that over half would like to see their company investing in more sustainable benefits such as electric vehicles and sustainable pensions, similarly rising to two-thirds of 18–34 year olds – and these demands are not going unnoticed.

More than four in ten businesses report an increase in the number of employees asking for sustainable benefits, and over half say that they have noticed an increase in the employees who care about sustainability over the last year.

Despite this, employees, particularly younger ones, believe that their company could be doing more.

Although half of young workers now say that sustainable benefits are the most important perks to them, a third of this age group believe that their employers do not care about sustainability.

Moreover, the research reveals the worrying impact of this disconnect, particularly as younger generations increasingly enter the workforce.

Two in five aged 18-34, believe that poor sustainability initiatives have a detrimental impact on their morale at work. This not only leaves existing employees demotivated, but businesses at risk of failing to attract fresh talent.

Matt Russell, CEO of Zest, who commissioned the research, comments: “It’s been a difficult few years for businesses, and the reality is that many – often not by choice – have been forced to put their sustainability initiatives on hold.

“Yet with the next generation increasingly populating the workforce, many of whom are naturally engaged in sustainability initiatives that will support their future, businesses must adapt to these changing demands. While many businesses will be focused on scope 1 and 2 emissions, a key area that can be overlooked in sustainability is benefits packages, for example electric vehicle schemes or sustainable pension funds.

“Not only will a greater focus on this better meet individual needs, improving overall employee proposition and the ability to attract and retain talent, but crucially it will assist with the UK’s broader journey to net zero.”