Small business workers ‘more green’

Small business employees are more than twice as likely to be eco-conscious than their counterparts at larger companies, new research has found.

The survey, by energy company E.ON, found that small businesses are ‘leading the way’ in the fight against climate change, with nine in 10 workers saying they have altered their behaviour ‘at least a little’ to help combat global warming.

In fact, more than a third of employees at small businesses said they have ‘significantly’ changed their behaviour to address climate change, compared to less than a fifth in larger companies.

The poll said in larger companies, more than two thirds of workers said a feeling of ‘not being in charge’ discouraged them from changing their behaviour, making it harder to adopt eco-friendly practices compared to when they were at some.

Jim Macdonald, commercial director for E.ON, said it is up to businesses to help their employees adopt more energy saving practices.

“Businesses seeking to go green must look at cutting the red tape their employees face in implementing energy efficient work practices,” he said.

“Our research shows that it’s a feeling of needing to ask permission to make positive changes which prevents workers from taking the necessary steps.”

© Crimson Business Ltd. 2008