Employee Perceptions of Energy Efficiency and Sustainability Practices in Tea Factories: A Case Study from Ratnapura, Sri Lanka

Abstract

The tea industry plays a pivotal role in Sri Lanka's economy and contributes significantly to export earnings and employment. However, the sector faces challenges in maintaining economic stability while adapting to environmental sustainability. This research aims to bridge this gap by examining how employees perceive and engage with energy efficiency and sustainability initiatives. The study employed a quantitative research design, utilizing a structured pre-tested questionnaire to collect data from 154 employees across 27 tea factories in Ratnapura. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 27 software, with regression and ANOVA tests performed to evaluate the relationships between variables such as awareness, attitudes, organizational support, challenges, and employee engagement in sustainability practices. By the R Square (0.293) value, 29.3% of the variation in the Employee Engagement in Energy Efficiency and Sustainability Practices is explained by the independent variables. 5.8oh ofemployees surveyed were under the age of 25,20.1% between 26-35,22.7% between 36-45,435% between 46-60, and7.8Yo over 60. Also, 70.8olo of them were female and 29.2Yo were male. Key findings revealed that organizational support and workplace culture significantly enhance employee engagement in sustainability initiatives (p : 0.004), while challenges and barriers negatively impact participation O : 0.003). Older employees showed lower engagement (p : 0.021) levels, whereas those with more experience (p : 0.040) were more likely to participate. The majority of employees had only primary or secondary education, highlighting the need for targeted training programs. The study concludes that improving organizational support, reducing barriers, and implementing age-specific engagement strategies are critical for fostering sustainable practices in tea factories. Recommendations include developing clear sustainability policies, conducting regular training, allocating resources, and collaborating with policymakers to incentivize renewable energy adoption. This research contributes to achieving global sustainability goals, such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), by promoting energy efficiency in Sri Lanka's tea industry.