In today’s competitive job market, businesses face the dual challenge of attracting top talent and retaining their best employees. With the ever-looming climate crisis becoming a key issue for young people, sustainability-focused employee engagement is key to staff retention among Gen Z employees.
The Rising Importance of Sustainability for Staff Retention
Recently, we’re seeing more evidence of the growing importance of sustainability among younger workers. For instance, a Deloitte survey of nearly 23,000 Gen Z and millennial workers across 44 countries revealed that about 20% have changed jobs or industries due to environmental concerns. Add to that, over 70% consider an employer’s green credentials and policies crucial when job hunting. This trend, known as “climate quitting,” is further proof that companies must demonstrate a genuine commitment to sustainability to attract and retain the next generation of talent.
Jump’s Impact on Employee Engagement and Awareness
At Jump, we have seen firsthand how sustainability programmes can boost employee engagement and awareness. Our 2023 Impact Report highlights significant engagement and positive environmental impacts among our users. In 2023, Jump users:
- Avoided 5.5 million kilograms of CO2 emissions,
- Saved 2.6 million kilowatt-hours of energy,
- Prevented 380,000 kilograms of waste from being generated.
Our Behaviour Change Model is at the heart of this success, focusing on motivation, capability, and opportunity to drive long-lasting change. This model, developed through extensive research and over a decade of practical experience, has led to 80% of our users reporting increased awareness of their environmental impact, and 97% integrating sustainable actions into their daily routines.
How do Business Leaders Feel About Sustainability and Staff Retention?
A study by Morgan Stanley highlights that 85% of executives view sustainability as integral to their business strategy. In fact, global sustainable investment assets total $35.3 trillion, which reflects the growing financial commitment to sustainability initiatives.
That being said, 43% of companies find balancing short-term costs with long-term benefits challenging. Bain & Company’s research highlights a significant skills gap in the realm of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance). While 63% of business leaders identify a need for new ESG skills, only 45% of non-managers feel they have reskilling opportunities. Furthermore, 75% of leaders believe their companies haven’t effectively integrated sustainability into business practices.
A Jump programme, therefore, is a cost-effective solution to engage employees, hit sustainability targets and reduce energy costs while doing it!
Why Sustainability Programmes Are Essential for Staff Retention and Employee Engagement
The business case for sustainability programmes is clear: companies with strong sustainability practices can better attract and retain young talent, who are increasingly prioritising environmental responsibility. Integrating sustainability into corporate strategy can lead to significant cost savings, a better brand reputation, and ultimately, attract and retain the next generation of talent.
At Jump, our comprehensive employee engagement programmes are designed to drive sustainable behaviour change and enhance staff retention. Our commitment to customising programmes for every organisation ensures that each initiative is relevant and impactful.
For more information on our programmes and their impact, book a call with our team.
