Climate change benefits are the next workplace trend, but what are they?

By Aoibhinn Mc Bride

Forget company swag in the form of a waterproof jacket or golf umbrella.

Employees are now looking for climate change benefits that go beyond the more basic ways to deal with inclement weather conditions.

According to the Fifth National Climate Assessment, a U.S. government initiative that reports on climate change impacts, risks and responses, increasing precipitation levels in the Northeast and Midwest coupled with droughts in the Southwest have already had a catastrophic impact.

And things are only set to get worse with natural disasters on the rise and safe and reliable water sources a very real concern in the near future.

In fact, a recent study by Gartner found that 37% of employers have had to adapt their ways of working due to climate-related risks impacting staff.

Eco-conscious
Enter climate change benefits. Designed to protect staff and their jobs, these benefits go a step beyond a 401k contribution or a family healthcare package in that they are primarily designed to keep staff safe during a natural disaster.

This can be a designated shelter or evacuation location with a guaranteed source of electricity or running water or even evacuation transportation, should the need arise.

Additionally, some organizations are bulk-buying critical supplies such as bottled water, air-purifiers and solar-powered radios that can be distributed to employees.

Mental health supports and employee assistant tools such as wellbeing and therapy apps are being added to the roster, along with practical assistance resources like a hardship fund to ease the administrative burden that usually accompanies natural disasters.

Speaking about the findings, Emily Rose McRae, senior director analyst at the Gartner HR practice shared that relocation assistance and short-term housing subsidies are another way organizations can compensate those affected by a climate change-related disaster.

"One thing we've seen organizations do is create a direct line expert in navigating the various federal programs, local programs, and employer benefits that are available, removing the pressure for employees to sort through complex administrative burdens during climate-related events.

"These experts are typically already employed by the organization's existing employee assistance program (EAP), so it's not about adding a new benefit so much as making it easier for employees to access the benefit and letting them know that this specific benefit is available."

Looking for a role with more purpose and benefits to match? Head to the Employee Benefit News Job Board where you can find thousands of openings in companies that are actively hiring, including the three below.

Human Resources Recruiting Internship - Summer 2024, Uline, Racine
Are you a college student looking to level up your recruiting skills? Uline is currently accepting applicants for its Human Resources Recruiting Internship. Within this internship you will gain real-world, hands-on experience working alongside HR professionals and partner with hiring managers to identify talent needs, job duties and required qualifications and skills. You will also maintain and track candidate pipelines, assist with special projects and provide recommendations regarding community, high school, and technical college recruiting strategies. Interested? Apply here.

Human Resources Generalist, Trinity Solar Careers, Reading
Trinity Solar has been making renewable energy accessible since 1994 and has become the largest privately held residential solar installer in the U.S. It is seeking a Human Resources Generalist to collaborate closely with centralized corporate HR functional area managers and provide leadership and support. Duties will include conducting weekly new hire orientation, harassment prevention training, administer benefits programs, and policies and procedures. See the full job description here.

HR Business Partner Manager, Gemini, Inc., Cannon Falls
Gemini is hiring a HR Business Partner to align the human resources function with overall business objectives. This position involves a strategic focus on workforce planning, talent management, employee relations, and collaboration with business leaders across one or more facilities to enhance the organization's performance. As such, you will be required to develop and implement initiatives to foster a positive work environment, enhance employee engagement, and promote Gemini's culture along with leading talent acquisition. Find out more here.

Accelerate your job hunt now via the Employee Benefit News Job Board