Sustainability cannot be achieved in isolation. It takes teamwork and joined-up thinking.
Over the past two decades, energy efficiency and sustainability have become a key focus both for businesses and for society as a whole. With net zero carbon targets on the horizon, organisations can no longer afford to ignore their environmental responsibilities as the UK attempts to reduce its carbon footprint. From using renewable energy resources to reducing waste, all businesses must make the effort to go green.
But this is hard to do if you’re operating alone. Your efforts will only go so far if your employees aren’t also doing their bit, which is why getting your staff engaged about sustainability should be high on your list when it comes to boosting your business’s environmental profile.
From creating a sustainability initiative to offering green incentives, here’s how to engage your employees in your energy strategy.
Creating a sustainability initiative
It’s vital that businesses have a plan in place when it comes to energy efficiency. Deloitte’s Global 2021 Survey found that workers – particularly Millennials and Gen Z – are increasingly challenging their employers about being more accountable in terms of sustainability. Creating a program that addresses climate change, protects the environment and manages energy usage is essential when it comes to protecting resources, generating sustainable value and retaining high-performing employees.
A sustainability initiative adds brand value and gives you a competitive edge, while also meeting consumer demands and attracting new business and partners. This is as well as improving efficiency, lowering energy consumption and reducing waste.
How to engage your employees in sustainability
A successful sustainability campaign is one that has your whole team behind it. One way to engage your employees is to take a ‘top-down’ approach, getting buy-in from an executive team and other senior staff members. When senior members of staff lead by example, other team members are far more likely to follow suit.
Give clear guidelines about how your staff members can save on energy: from switching lights and devices off when not in use, to putting greater emphasis on recycling initiatives. Even the smallest changes can make a big difference when everyone is on board and a concerted effort is made over time. And don’t forget to encourage feedback on your initiative so that it can evolve and grow with everyone contributing.
The power of green incentives
In an ideal world, saving the planet would be incentive enough for us all to think greener in the workplace – but there’s no doubt that a few more incentives help. Employees are far more likely to be engaged in energy efficiency when there are rewards on offer, so don’t be afraid to introduce sustainability incentives, competitions and prizes into your initiative.
You should also shout about your green efforts online, including positive results, interesting projects and employee testimonials on your website and social platforms. Not only does this show your customers that you are taking sustainability seriously, but it can also attract new talent to your business.
Seek out support from Consultiv Utilities
Expand your sustainability solutions even further by reaching out to experts for guidance and support. From our business energy consultants, who can help you reduce emissions, to our waste and water management experts, we have an experienced team are on hand to help you maximise sustainability in every aspect of your business.
With years of experience under our belt, we can help you navigate the complex roads leading to net zero, ensuring you are compliant with all existing legislations and doing everything possible to support the environment and make the most of your budgets.