Deloitte’s 2024 Gen Z and Millennial Survey, now in its 13th edition, highlights the significant environmental concerns of Gen Z, demonstrating their commitment to addressing climate change and environmental sustainability. The survey, encompassing over 22,800 respondents from 44 countries, underscores how these younger generations are actively pushing for substantial societal change, particularly in environmental conservation.
Rising Environmental Awareness
Gen Z’s heightened awareness of environmental issues is a prominent theme in the survey. The urgency of climate change resonates deeply, with 62% of Gen Z respondents expressing anxiety about climate change within the past month. This figure underscores the pervasive worry about the planet’s future among young people. The increasing frequency of extreme weather events, rising global temperatures, and environmental degradation amplify this concern, making climate change a central issue for Gen Z.
Demanding Corporate Responsibility
Gen Z’s environmental concerns are not confined to personal anxieties; they translate into tangible actions and demands. The survey reveals that young people are pressuring businesses and governments to adopt more sustainable practices. Approximately 77% of Gen Z respondents believe governments should enforce stricter regulations to compel businesses to take climate action. This aligns with their belief that businesses have a significant role in driving environmental change. Gen Z expects companies to integrate sustainable practices into their core operations, not just as a marketing strategy but as a fundamental business principle.
Change the World - Subscribe Now
Influencing Career Choices and Consumer Behavior
Environmental sustainability heavily influences Gen Z’s career decisions and consumer behaviors. A notable finding is that 20% of Gen Z respondents have already changed jobs or industries to align their work with their environmental values, with an additional 26% planning to do so in the future. This shift underscores the importance of environmental values in career choices, indicating that Gen Z prioritizes working for organizations that demonstrate a genuine commitment to sustainability.
Moreover, Gen Z’s consumer choices reflect their environmental consciousness. They actively research the environmental practices of companies before making purchasing decisions and are willing to pay a premium for sustainable products. Approximately 64% of Gen Z respondents are willing to pay more for environmentally sustainable products or services, indicating a strong preference for brands that align with their values.
Driving Change from Within
The survey also highlights how Gen Z is driving change within their organizations. Around half of Gen Z respondents reported pressuring their employers to take more significant climate action. This internal push from employees reflects a broader trend of demanding transparency and accountability from employers regarding their environmental impact.
The Role of Education and Advocacy
Gen Z’s commitment to environmental sustainability extends beyond the workplace. They advocate for better education and training on sustainability, both for themselves and within their organizations. Many respondents expressed a desire for their employers to invest more in educating employees on how to be sustainable in their personal and professional lives. This advocacy for education highlights Gen Z’s proactive approach to equipping themselves and their peers with the knowledge and skills necessary to tackle environmental challenges effectively.
Conclusion: A Generation Committed to Change
Deloitte’s survey illustrates that Gen Z is not only aware of the pressing environmental issues but is also actively working towards solutions. Their commitment to climate action is evident in their career choices, consumer behaviors, and advocacy within their organizations and communities. As this generation continues to enter the workforce and take on leadership roles, their persistent demand for sustainability will likely drive significant changes in how businesses and governments address climate change. Gen Z’s unwavering dedication to protecting the environment sets a powerful precedent for future generations, highlighting the urgent need for collective action to safeguard the planet.
