Three Programmes for Eco-Minded Employees

Published 16 May 2024

Author
Emilia Morano-Williams
2 min read

Globally, 27% of people consider an employer’s position on sustainability when choosing whether to accept a job offer, while 24% have debated switching roles to work for a more climate-aware company (Deloitte, 2023). Cue programmes that entice employees and independent workers looking to ensure their professional life reflects their environmental beliefs.

  • Eco-Conscious Advertising: Operating in the UK and South Africa, Clean Creatives aims to limit fossil fuel companies’ influence on the advertising industry. Advertising professionals, influencers and independent agencies can sign a pledge saying that they refuse to work with fossil fuel companies. Brands can also sign up, promising to avoid hiring agencies that continue to produce work for fossil fuel companies.

    According to the group, signing up may help employee retention and brand marketing– young people are increasingly considering their climate impact alongside their career. Meanwhile, an uptick in lawsuits addressing climate change could put companies working with fossil fuels at risk, Clean Creatives warns.

  • Environmentally Committed Business Professionals: Launched in March 2024 by MBA students from England’s Cambridge University, the Climate Legacy Commitment (CLC) is a pledge for business students committed to climate-aware principles. Rather than push people toward green industries, the CLC encourages participants to advance climate-supportive standards wherever they work. So far, over 300 students across the US and Europe have taken the pledge, which is displayed as a LinkedIn profile badge.

  • Sustainability-Adjacent Benefits: Sustainability-minded employees are likely to look favourably on employer benefits that support their own climate goals. Enter the Carbon Savings Account, offered by American benefits company Scope Zero. These accounts allow employees to set aside pre-tax money for carbon-conscious purchases, whether upgrading to more efficient home tech or transportation. The format is akin to America’s Health Savings Account, which allows individuals to set aside pre-tax money for health-related spending.