Perhaps no generation on Earth has been as concerned about the environment as Gen Z. It has played a key role in raising the current heightened concern about the environment. Gen Z has also popularized eco-responsibility in the form of thrifting and more. Now, it’s time to explore just how environmentally conscious Gen Z is.
Why is Gen Z So Eco-Conscious?
A key reason why Gen Z is so eco-conscious is because it collectively grew up at a time when Mother Earth came under increasing distress and strain. So, they understand, sometimes from first-hand observation, the impact that human activities can have on the environment.
Let’s let the statistics do the talking. About 82% of Gen Zers are extremely concerned about the environment. But many to most of this generational cohort aren’t content with just watching and processing/analyzing what they see and hear on the news and social media platforms. They want to make a difference. Almost three-quarters (72%) of them either are changing their behavior or have changed their actions to help Mother Nature out.
66% of them (revealed by a study done in 2020) will pay a premium for sustainable or eco-friendly brands. 73% of them will shell out extra money for brands made from ethically sourced products. Many of them also expect corporations to take the initiative in eco-sustainability. IBM recently did a report. Its findings were staggering. 56% of them wanted big businesses to be eco-conscious when manufacturing and selling brands.
72% of Gen Zers want businesses to be held accountable if they damage the environment in any way.
What Makes Gen Z Tick from an Eco-Conscious Standpoint?
Gen Z has demonstrated, through previous buying behavior and patterns, that they will only do businesses that are sincere and transparent about safeguarding the environment. About 91% of them (according to a study done by Core Communications) will gladly switch to brands that respect the environment.
Beyond that, Gen Zers value those enterprises that are honest and genuine in their efforts to safeguard the environment. For example, 73% of Gen Zers were willing to buy and consume differently if it would help the environment. They expect businesses to do the same. They also prefer (75% of them) to work for companies promoting and practicing environmental stewardship.
They are more receptive to companies that go beyond using eco-sustainable materials and production methods. They expect the same from their marketing campaigns and packaging as well. Gen Z also rewards those enterprises that take their posts about eco-consciousness viral on social and social media platforms.
Gen Z Values the Environment
And that’s a good thing since there is no life without a healthy environment. However, unlike previous generations, they aren’t just content to walk the walk. They want to talk the talk and take real action in protecting the environment. They expect the same from society and businesses as well.
