Employers need to sell climate strategy to jobseekers

75 per cent of jobseekers under 30 say a prospective employer’s environmental impact is an important factor when applying for jobs

The results of the latest European Investment Bank (EIB) Climate Survey reveal that 19 per cent of young people aged 20-29 say that the climate impact of a prospective employer is a top priority for them with a further three quarters stating that it is an important factor when applying for a new position.

Whilst younger respondents were more likely to prioritise climate action from an employer, most respondents of all ages (61%) say it is important that prospective employers prioritise sustainability.

The war in Ukraine and its consequences, including rising energy prices and inflation, have dramatically increased concerns about declining purchasing power in the United Kingdom. However, climate change and environmental degradation remain among the country’s top three challenges, according to respondents, behind the increased cost of living and the financial crisis. Moreover, two-thirds of respondents (66%) are convinced that their own behaviour could make a difference in addressing the climate emergency (compared to 75% in Germany, 69% in the Netherlands and 63% in France).