Being Green and employment discrimination (CIPD)

This is not only interesting to HR people but everyone in the workplace. According to a CIPD news article in the 7 February 2008 People Management, the definition of what defines belief has been broadened.

"...the definition of belief to include any strongly held belief that affects an employee's lifestyle. This may include environmental concerns."

Thus if you felt strongly about green issues, perhaps campaigned in the workplace for recycling and then were discriminated against over a promotion because of that campaign you could claim discrimination under UK law.

The advice as always is to ensure that all decisions taken are justified. So continuing with the example you would need to justify why the company could not recycle and also prove that the promotion decision was made objectively.

The best way to make recruitment / promtion decisions is always to have a structured interview.