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.
