Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) commitments are no longer optional for businesses—they are a fundamental expectation. Employees, particularly younger generations, increasingly prioritise ESG values when choosing where to work. However, new research suggests a stark reality: many businesses talk about ESG more than they act on it.
The Perception Gap
According to research from insights agency Opinium, only 52% of UK workers believe their employer’s ESG commitments align with their actual business practices. A further 12% say their organisation makes ESG claims without following through, creating a significant credibility gap.
This disconnect is particularly noticeable across different levels of seniority. While 60% of senior decision-makers believe their company upholds its ESG commitments, only 46% of junior employees and manual workers share this view. Without genuine, organisation-wide engagement, ESG risks becoming a hollow corporate slogan rather than a lived reality.
Employees Demand More Than Words
The younger workforce is leading the call for tangible ESG action. Nearly half of workers aged 18 to 34 say ESG principles are important to them, and 43% would leave their job if their employer’s values didn’t align with their own. Businesses failing to act on their ESG commitments risk losing talent to organisations that prioritise meaningful impact over PR-friendly messaging.
James Endersby, CEO of Opinium, highlights this growing shift: “The demand for meaningful ESG action is becoming more than a trend—it’s a fundamental expectation for the workforce of tomorrow. Businesses need to demonstrate commitment through action, not just words.”
Turning ESG Promises Into Action
To retain credibility and attract top talent, businesses must move beyond rhetoric. Employees want to see measurable progress, clear accountability, and authentic engagement. Key steps include:
Transparent Communication: Regular updates on ESG goals, achievements, and challenges build trust and show commitment.
Employee Involvement: Giving employees a voice in ESG initiatives ensures buy-in and strengthens company culture.
Measurable Goals: Setting clear, trackable ESG targets helps demonstrate genuine progress and accountability.
Embedding ESG in Strategy: Businesses that integrate ESG into their core operations, rather than treating it as a secondary initiative, are more likely to retain employees and build long-term success.
Future-Proofing Through Authentic ESG Action
As Gen Z and younger millennials become a larger part of the workforce, ESG will continue to play a critical role in talent attraction and retention. Companies that fail to back up their commitments with meaningful action risk not only losing employees but also damaging their reputation among clients, investors, and regulators.
In an era where business success is increasingly linked to social and environmental responsibility, organisations must act decisively. Aligning ESG commitments with real-world impact isn’t just a moral imperative—it’s a business necessity.
How Allen & York Can Help
If you’re looking for talent to drive your sustainability goals, Allen & York can help. We specialise in connecting forward-thinking businesses with the expertise needed to shape a greener future. With our extensive global network and experienced recruiters, we are uniquely positioned to provide the technical skills and green talent that will power your transition. Get in touch today to discover the right candidates to accelerate your sustainability journey.