Green credentials important for third of job seekers
A third of workers (34%) actively check a company’s green credentials before applying for a role, according to the inaugural ESG Careers Report by Matrix Recruitment.
The survey also found that more than half (56%) of under-30s would ask potential employers about their sustainability goals during interviews, though only 12% would refuse a job offer outright if a sustainability policy wasn’t in place.
Among the 62% of respondents not currently in a green role, the majority (85%) said they would consider a job that contributes to climate action in future. However, key barriers include unclear job descriptions (29%) and a shortage of entry-level positions (28%).
Additionally, more than half (51%) admitted to lacking formal qualifications in sustainability, yet, only one in ten professionals surveyed were willing to return to full-time education or take a pay cut to increase their chances of obtaining a ‘green’ role.
Rena Weld, recruitment manager at Matrix Recruitment said: “We’re seeing a clear shift in what today’s workforce expects. Younger candidates especially are prioritising environmental values and ESG commitments. Employers must embed sustainability into their culture, and not just talk about it, if they want to attract and retain talent.”
When asked how they would improve their chances of landing a green role, , three in five (59%) professionals interested in moving into the green sector said they would like to upskill within their company and under half were open to doing a part-time college course (45%).
“It’s clear from the survey that there is an untapped opportunity for employers to develop sustainability talent from within their own company. This is invaluable insight and for many businesses, could be a solution to their green talent shortage,” said Weld.
Some 84% of respondents said all companies in Ireland should be required to disclose their environmental and ESG impact.
The green career attracting the most interest were renewable energy, the circular economy, biodiversity, and climate policy.
When asked how they would improve their chances of landing a green role, almost three in five (59%) professionals interested in moving into the green sector said they would like to upskill within their company, and under half were open to doing a part-time college course (45%).
The survey of 163 adults in Ireland took place across a range of sectors and regions in May 2025.
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