How sustainability and staff wellbeing go hand in hand

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to consider how your business supports employee wellbeing. But here’s something you might not have considered: your sustainability practices can directly impact staff wellbeing too.

For small businesses, these two objectives often overlap — and creating a greener, healthier workplace could be simpler than you think.

1. A greener workspace means a healthier team

Natural lighting, cleaner air, and reduced waste don’t just improve your environmental impact — they create welcoming, energising spaces. Whether you run an office, shop, café, or manage a remote team, simple actions like introducing plants, reducing clutter, or moving towards paperless practices can boost focus, mood, and productivity.

For remote workers, encouraging greener home habits — like using energy-efficient devices or taking regular screen breaks — can improve wellbeing and reduce stress.

2. Shared values build stronger teams

Employees increasingly prefer working for businesses that reflect their personal values. Demonstrating your sustainability goals clearly communicates your commitment to doing the right thing — and that makes employees proud and motivated to be part of your business.

This shared sense of purpose can significantly improve staff loyalty, support recruitment, and enhance your overall workplace culture.

3. Sustainable habits encourage mindful working

Embracing sustainability often encourages healthier, more thoughtful working practices. Activities such as walking meetings, turning off equipment at the end of the day, or scheduling regular digital decluttering sessions aren’t just eco-friendly — they positively impact your team’s mental health and encourage better work-life balance.

Zen’s approach — people and planet first

At Zen, sustainability and wellbeing are at the core of everything we do. As a certified B Corp, our commitment to putting people first has consistently seen us recognised as one of the UK’s best companies to work for.

We strongly believe looking after both people and the planet isn’t a compromise — it’s fundamental to building a stronger, more resilient business.

Ready to make small changes with big impacts?

Whether it’s switching to renewable energy, encouraging regular breaks, or simply creating a greener workspace — small steps can lead to significant benefits.

Discover more about Zen’s sustainability efforts, and why we’re proud to be a B Corp, here.