A new survey has highlighted a growing desire for sustainability among UK adults, but reveals that many feel guilty for not doing more. The research, conducted by OnePoll and commissioned by Sustain Commercial Solar, shows that while 67% of participants consider sustainability an important part of their lifestyle, the vast majority—95%—admit they feel they could be doing more to help the environment.
The study of 2,000 UK adults revealed that a significant number of people are making small, yet impactful, sustainable changes in their daily routines. Popular habits include using reusable bags, bottles, and containers (64%), managing household waste carefully (61%), and reducing water and energy use at home (59%). Additionally, more than half of respondents (53%) are making a conscious effort to switch off appliances on standby, reflecting growing awareness about energy conservation.
However, the survey also found that while many are trying to make more sustainable choices, only 21% of people actively support sustainable brands, and just 14% shop at refill stores. Another 14% have made the switch to renewable energy sources like solar panels. These figures suggest that despite positive changes, there is still a gap between intention and action when it comes to more substantial sustainability measures.
Financial constraints were identified as the biggest barrier to making more sustainable choices, with 49% of respondents citing cost as a limiting factor. Lack of time (37%) and difficulty finding sustainable alternatives (32%) also featured prominently, as did a lack of knowledge about sustainable options (30%).
Jani Moran, Commercial Director at Sustain Commercial Solar, commented on the findings: “While the desire to make sustainable choices is strong, significant changes still feel out of reach for many. At Sustain Commercial Solar, we address these challenges by offering flexible financing and end-to-end support to make renewable energy accessible to both businesses and consumers.”
The research also delved into the attitudes of UK employees towards sustainability in the workplace. It found that 69% of workers would prefer to work for an employer with a strong sustainability focus, and 53% said they would reconsider working for a company engaged in unsustainable practices.
Furthermore, the survey identified the sustainable practices that employees most want to see in their workplaces. These include reducing waste and enhancing recycling initiatives (45%), utilising renewable energy sources like solar or wind power (41%), and encouraging remote working to reduce commuting emissions (38%). Other popular suggestions included providing incentives for eco-friendly behaviours, such as cycling to work or carpooling (37%), and supporting environmental projects or local sustainability programmes (36%).
Moran added: “Renewable energy, like solar, is not only a solution for companies looking to demonstrate commitment to sustainability but also a critical part of building a future less reliant on fossil fuels. This research serves as a wake-up call to business leaders to take ownership of their energy and drive a more sustainable future.”
While the study underscores the challenges many face in adopting more sustainable lifestyles, it also highlights a growing sense of urgency and awareness, both in personal habits and workplace expectations.