Grow Staff Motivation With Climate Change Training
The Los Angeles fires. UK floods. Hottest ever temperatures (month after month).
Climate change is hitting the headlines day after day, and it’s not just local communities who need to act. Businesses across the UK are seeing staff vote with their feet as they leave companies that don’t align with their ethos and values. Consumers are becoming increasingly concerned too.
The UK’s Desire For Climate Action
Public concern is at an all-time high. The Climate Change Committee’s 2024 report, says that 83% of UK adults think the climate crisis needs urgent action.
Younger workers – Millennials and Gen Z – are increasingly motivated by environmental concerns. YouGov’s 2023 poll says that 71% of 18-24-year-olds would rather work for companies tackling climate change.
Staff are no longer looking just for a salary. They want work which aligns with their values.
So, if you want to keep your best staff, as well as attracting and retaining customers too, increasing climate actions is a “must do”. It’s not hard either…
Use Climate Change Training
One powerful way to grow staff motivation and increase climate actions is to offer carbon literacy training. This supports greater responsibility and boosts staff morale.
People attending carbon literacy training typically reduce their annual emissions by 5 to 15 per cent. So it helps achieve your business sustainability goals too.
The Connection Between Learning and Motivation
Research shows that education and training are key to motivation. According to CIPD’s 2024 report on employee engagement, personal development leads to higher job satisfaction, increased loyalty, and enhanced performance. Employees who feel their company is investing in their growth are more likely to be motivated and engaged in their role.
Carbon Literacy Project training isn’t just education – it’s about empowering staff to really drive change. Through understanding the science and inequity of climate change, where we are heading, and the role we all play, you can inspire staff to take ownership of their environmental impact. Staff who feel informed are more likely to take the initiative – within the company and in their personal lives.
How Climate Change Training Drives Staff Motivation
- A Sense of Purpose Many workers want to feel they’re contributing to something larger than themselves. Climate change training provides a sense of purpose, leading to improved job satisfaction and increased motivation. Employees who believe they’re contributing to the greater good feel more valued and engaged.
- Active Participation and Ownership When companies offer climate change training for staff development, it supports a culture of participation. Staff trained in carbon literacy feel more motivated to suggest green initiatives, like decarbonisation, reducing waste or lowering energy practices. Staff with knowledge and ability to drive action transform from passive employees into active contributors, increasing their morale.
- Enhanced Collaboration and Team Spirit Tackling climate change enhances collaboration. Employees working together to implement sustainable practices, such as cutting carbon emissions or improving efficiency, see their role within the business grow.
- Improved Mental Health and Well-Being The emotional burden of climate change is real. A study by The Mental Health Foundation found that 59% of the UK population feel anxious about climate change and its impact on their future. Offering employees the chance to engage with, learn, and talk about climate change helps them feel more equipped and able to take control. Educating employees not only helps them feel more optimistic but also promotes mental well-being – providing actions they can take.
- Better Retention and Attraction of Talent Offering climate change training can also be good as a retention tool. A 2024 study by the UK Business and Sustainability Network revealed that 63% of employees said they would stay longer with an employer that prioritised sustainability. Companies with a strong environmental ethos can also attract better talent. An aspect crucial for business success.
Conclusion
As climate change impacts increase in importance, UK businesses have a great opportunity to create more responsible cultures. Integrating climate change into workplace development leads to more engaged, motivated, and purpose-driven staff. This not only helps businesses contribute to a more sustainable future but also enhances employee retention, collaboration, and job satisfaction.
By investing in climate change education, companies invest in developing a knowledgeable workforce. One that is passionate about making a positive impact. In today’s climate, that’s a win-win for everyone.
