When we think about sustainability, HR might not be the first department that comes to mind. But the truth is, HR professionals are uniquely positioned to drive meaningful environmental change within organizations. From setting the tone for eco-conscious culture to shaping employee benefits and workplace policies, HR can be the engine behind a company’s green transformation.
With Earth Day around the corner, there’s no better time to explore how HR sustainability initiatives can help create greener, more sustainable workplaces.
Why Sustainability Matters at Work
The workplace plays a significant role in global sustainability efforts. According to the Carbon Majors database, over 70% of global CO2 emissions historically can be attributed to less than 100 companies. Companies that embrace sustainability not only contribute to climate action, but also benefit from increased employee engagement, reduced operational costs, and a stronger brand reputation.
A 2023 report from IBM found that more than 70% of job seekers said a company’s sustainability track record influences their decision to accept a job offer. And a Gallup study revealed that younger generations—particularly Gen Z and Millennials—prioritize employers who are environmentally responsible and socially conscious.
In other words, green workplaces aren’t just good for the planet—they’re good for business.
HR’s Role in Driving Sustainability
While sustainability efforts often fall under operations or facilities, the path to a greener workplace often begins with HR. Here’s how HR sustainability initiatives can make a lasting impact:
1. Shaping Culture Around Sustainability
HR plays a key role in setting cultural priorities. By embedding sustainability into company values, onboarding, and employee recognition programs, HR can normalize eco-friendly behavior across the organization.
Examples include:
- Including environmental responsibility in core company values
- Highlighting green initiatives in onboarding materials
- Recognizing teams or individuals for their sustainability efforts
Despite growing awareness, many companies still have work to do—only 13% of executives say sustainability is deeply embedded into their company’s cultural DNA, according to a 2023 report by The Conference Board. This presents a clear opportunity for HR to lead the way in shaping a culture where environmental values are normalized and celebrated.
2. Launching Green Employee Initiatives
From organizing Earth Day events to launching company-wide recycling programs, HR-led sustainability initiatives can engage employees at every level.
Ideas include:
- Volunteer days for environmental cleanups
- Office-wide composting or recycling campaigns
- Internal sustainability committees led by employees
These efforts align with consumer expectations—81% of global consumers believe companies should actively work to improve the environment, according to a Nielsen study. When employees see their company taking action, it fosters pride and purpose.
3. Updating Policies to Support Sustainability
HR has the power to update or create policies that reinforce green practices, such as:
- Flexible work policies that reduce commuting emissions
- Guidelines for energy-efficient home office setups
- Travel policies that prioritize virtual meetings or lower-carbon travel options
Even small policy changes can make a significant impact. Research by Cornell University and Microsoft found that remote and hybrid work models can reduce up to 58% of a workplace’s carbon footprint—proof that HR’s influence on work arrangements can have far-reaching environmental benefits.
4. Promoting Digital Transformation
Paper-based processes are not only inefficient—they’re also wasteful. A key part of HR sustainability initiatives is leading the shift to digital systems:
- Electronic pay stubs and direct deposit
- Digital onboarding and open enrollment
- ePosters and compliance documents
According to the EPA, the average office worker uses 10,000 sheets of paper each year—much of which can be eliminated through digitization. Going paperless not only improves efficiency but significantly reduces waste.
5. Offering Eco-Friendly Benefits
Employee benefits can also be a vehicle for supporting green living. HR can work with benefits providers to introduce or expand offerings such as:
- Green commuter benefits (public transit passes, bike reimbursements, EV charging)
- Discounts on sustainable products or wellness programs
- Paid time off for environmental volunteering
Green benefits are quickly gaining traction. A 2022 study by the Reward & Employee Benefits Association found that 70% of employers were considering eco-conscious perks for their future strategies, and 58% planned to increase investment in benefits that support environmental sustainability.
6. Supporting Environmental Learning and Development
Sustainability isn’t just about changing behavior—it’s also about building awareness. HR can work with leadership to offer learning opportunities on environmental issues, including:
- Webinars or lunch-and-learns on sustainable living
- Certifications in corporate sustainability
- Guest speakers from environmental organizations
These programs not only educate employees but also show that your company is serious about long-term change.
7. Recruiting and Onboarding with Purpose
Job seekers are increasingly drawn to companies that align with their values. HR can reflect your company’s commitment to sustainability in:
- Job postings that mention eco-conscious values
- Interview questions that assess candidates’ interest in sustainability
- Onboarding content that highlights green workplace practices
Sustainability isn’t just a brand value—it’s a recruitment strategy. According to PwC, 86% of employees prefer to work for companies that align with their values, including environmental responsibility. HR can help ensure that alignment is front and center throughout the hiring process.
Real-World Examples of HR-Led Sustainability
Many organizations have already recognized the power of HR sustainability initiatives:
- Patagonia encourages employees to participate in environmental activism and offers paid time off to volunteer for environmental causes.
- Salesforce includes sustainability training in their onboarding process and offers employee-led sustainability groups.
- Unilever integrates sustainability goals into their performance evaluations and development plans.
These initiatives demonstrate how HR can embed sustainability into the DNA of a company—not just as a perk, but as a business imperative.
Getting Started: HR’s Earth Day Action Plan
Not sure where to begin? Launching a small Earth Day initiative is a great way to start building momentum around HR sustainability initiatives.
Here’s a simple 5-step action plan:
- Survey your team to gauge interest in sustainability initiatives
- Form a green team or sustainability committee
- Host an Earth Day challenge like a no-plastic pledge or walk/bike to work week
- Go paperless where possible—start with onboarding or payroll
- Review your benefits offerings to see where green perks can be added
Sustainable Workplaces Start with HR
Creating a greener workplace isn’t just about reducing emissions or waste—it’s about building a culture where employees feel empowered to make a difference. HR sustainability initiatives are the foundation for that culture.
By embedding sustainability into policies, benefits, communications, and company values, HR leaders can drive long-term impact—on people and the planet. Let HR take the lead in creating a greener, more responsible future for work.
