At Sustain Commercial Solar, we are dedicated to empowering individuals and businesses to embrace renewable energy solutions for a more sustainable future. Sustainability is no longer just a personal choice but a collective responsibility, shaping how we live, work, and make decisions. 

We conducted a survey of 2,000 UK adults with OnePoll, our research sheds light on attitudes towards sustainability. Highlighting sustainable habits, barriers to change, and the role of renewable energy like solar power in driving a greener future for businesses.

Sustainability: A Key Priority for the UK

The survey revealed that 67% of UK adults consider sustainability an important part of their lifestyle. Despite this, 95% admitted feeling guilty about not doing more. Popular sustainable actions people already do include:

• Using reusable bags, bottles, and containers – 64%
• Careful management of household waste – 61%
• Reducing water and energy usage at home – 59%
• Switching off appliances on standby – 53%

While these everyday changes are embraced, only 14% have adopted renewable energy sources like solar panels, highlighting the untapped potential for more impactful choices.

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Barriers to Sustainability

Despite good intentions, several obstacles prevent individuals from adopting sustainable practices:

• Financial constraints – 49%
• Lack of time – 37%
• Difficulty finding sustainable alternatives – 32%
• Limited knowledge – 30%

These challenges underline the importance of accessible, well-supported solutions that make sustainable living achievable for all.

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Renewable Energy: The Solution Employees Want

The workplace also plays a critical role in sustainability. 69% of employees in the UK value working for a sustainably conscious employer, and 53% agree that unsustainable practices would impact their desire to work for a company. The most desired sustainable practices in workplaces include:

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1. Reducing waste and enhancing recycling initiatives – 45%
2. Utilising renewable energy sources such as solar or wind power – 41%
3. Encouraging remote work to reduce commuting emissions – 38%
4. Providing eco-friendly incentives like cycling to work or carpooling – 37%
5. Supporting environmental projects or local sustainability programmes – 36%
   

The Role of Solar Energy in Driving Change

While 14% of UK households currently use solar panels, 33% are planning to adopt them in the future, with 7% aiming to install panels within the next year. 

However, the barriers to solar adoption include:

• High upfront costs – 45%
• Concerns about return on investment – 25%
• Lack of knowledge about options – 14%

At Sustain Commercial Solar, we’re tackling these challenges by offering flexible financing options and sharing expert knowledge. We aim to make solar energy more accessible, empowering businesses and individuals to lead the transition to renewable energy.

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Generational Differences in Sustainability Awareness

The survey also explored generational attitudes toward sustainability. Interestingly, 38% believe the younger generation (aged 18–40) is more conscious of sustainability, while 23% feel both generations are equally aware. This data reflects a promising trend: sustainability awareness is spreading across age groups, creating momentum for lasting change.

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Take Action For Your Business Today

The findings of this study underscore the need for businesses and individuals to collaborate in driving sustainable progress. At Sustain Commercial Solar, we’re here to help you take ownership of your energy and shape a greener future. Whether you’re looking to install solar panels or want to make your workplace more sustainable, our expert team is ready to support you every step of the way.

Contact us today to learn how we can help make sustainable choices accessible for you or your business. Let’s build a future powered by solar!

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