• New data reveals over half (51%) of under 28s report a partner’s eco-credentials are just as important as their sense of humour when it comes to love

• Meanwhile 45% of Gen Z are more likely to find someone attractive if they have a climate conscious or ‘green’ job

• Helping to build a greener workforce, E.ON UK offers degree apprenticeships to equip young people with the skills needed to thrive in a sustainable future

New research from E.ON UK reveals living a climate conscious lifestyle is a major green flag for Gen Z daters, with almost half (46%) saying they are more likely to swipe right if someone’s dating profile mentions a passion for the planet.

It is clear eco-credentials can make or break a romantic partnership for the younger generation, as 44% say a passion for the planet is the most important quality they look for in a partner. Meanwhile, not caring about the environment is revealed as a huge turn off, with over half (51%) of the younger generation saying it gives them the ‘ick’. When it comes to dating, Gen Z report a passion for the environment is more important than a partner’s salary (47%) or shared hobbies (36%).

But it is not just about values, it is about careers too. For 45% of Gen Z, having a green job makes someone more attractive. And almost a third (29%) even insist they would never date someone who did not work in a green industry.

With 85% saying they’d be proud of a partner whose job helps the environment - and 68% interested in a green career themselves - it is clear that sustainability is shaping both hearts and futures.

Helping to build a greener workforce that Gen Z just cannot resist, E.ON UK offers a range of degree apprenticeships for young people looking to get ahead in the energy sector. The programmes offer the chance to train up in a range of roles needed to deliver the transition to cleaner and more affordable energy, including Environmental Specialists, Engineers and Digital Technologists.

Helen Bradbury, Chief People Officer at E.ON UK says: “It is evident that today’s younger generation truly value sustainability and it is great to see they are increasingly interested in green careers. We are committed to making sure today’s young people have the skills they need to thrive in a greener future.

“Degree apprenticeships offer an excellent pathway for people considering their opportunities after school or their future career. Our degree apprentices gain hands-on experience, build strong professional networks, and develop the skills needed to thrive in a sustainable future - all while earning a university degree that is fully funded by E.ON."

Since 2018, E.ON has supported more than 1,300 apprentices, ranging from intermediate to higher and degree level, offering a thorough and fulfilling learning experience and providing a strong foundation for long-term careers.

E.ON UK will open applications for its degree apprenticeship programmes on 15 December 2025 and is currently encouraging those who want to help create a sustainable future to register their interest.

To register your interest or find out more, visit E.ON's Early Careers webpage.

ENDS

Survey of 1,000 Gen Z respondents (aged 18 – 28) conducted on behalf of E.ON by 3Gem in August 2025.

About E.ON’s degree apprenticeships

E.ON UK’s degree apprenticeship programmes offer successful applicants the opportunity to work full-time, study for a fully funded degree and earn a competitive salary. During the four- or five-year programme, apprentices will work on several placements across the business, aligned to their academic work at university.

E.ON UK is offering six different degree apprenticeship schemes to start in September 2026, covering a range of skills and interests and aimed at developing the workforce of the future with skills that can be embedded into the workforce today.

• Data scientist

• Project management

• Digital technology

• Electro-mechanical engineering

• Control systems engineering

• Accountancy & taxation professional

E.ON UK is proud to have recently been named The Sunday Times’ Best Place to Work for young people and is keen to ensure its colleagues have the best possible start to their careers.

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