New research amongst 16-24
year olds in the United Kingdom shows that young people are optimistic about achieving a sustainable
future, although in some areas, such as reducing their meat intake, many are
not ready to change their ways yet.
In the first initiative of
its kind, Global Action Plan, the environment charity that works with young
people, business and communities, invited its young Climate Squad volunteers to
describe their vision for a sustainable Britain in 2020. Global Action Plan
then asked YouGov to question a further 1,053 16-24 year olds from all walks of
society for their views on these ideas.
The YouGov results
revealed that the wider group is behind many of the aspirations described by
their green peers, with 89% wanting to see people living more sustainably in
2020. Self-sufficiency proved popular with 81% wanting to see the majority of
homes producing their own energy and 73% keen on seeing rooftops being turned
into growing spaces by 2020.
There was surprisingly
strong acceptance for the concept of high carbon taxes resulting in companies
investing heavily in sustainable development, with two thirds of 16-24 year
olds supporting the idea.
Young people were
generally less enthusiastic about curbing their personal air travel, with 31%
in favor of restrictions on air miles, but just over half (57%) giving the idea
the thumbs down. Other modes of travel proved less controversial, with 87%
wanting to see more people walking and cycling.
Local communities are set
to benefit from a desire in the young to do their bit, with 75% saying they
would like to see people spending more time volunteering.
Supermarkets and brands
might be interested to note that 72% were keen that only products that meet
high environmental standards should be stocked.
Education and employment
prospects look bright as four-fifths (80%) would like to see science and
engineering subjects at school becoming more popular as jobs in the environment
sector grow.
The Greenprint to 2020 created
by the Climate Squad paints a fascinating picture where town and city views are
carpets of green thanks to rooftops and balconies converted to growing food;
the roar of engines are replaced with the swish of bicycles and the blossoming
renewable energy revolution has transformed the urban landscape, as roadsides,
pavements, roofs and buildings are used to harness wind and solar power.
Shopping baskets are filled with products that meet high environmental and
ethical standards and growing numbers of students are studying science and
engineering.
When asked to consider how
the Vision could be achieved, respondents felt that businesses needed to set a
green example to the public by shifting to low carbon fuels, becoming more
resource efficient and manufacturing greener products and packaging. The young
people acknowledged the influence of business on public opinion and behavior,
which meant business had a responsibility for advocating a greener way of
living.
Food companies and
supermarkets were singled out to play a vital role in helping Britain cope with
higher global food demands over the next ten years. While businesses might be
the engine of change, it was felt that Government had to be in the driving seat
with regulations, schemes and incentives that will guide the pace and tone of
change. More investment in public transport, penalties for unsustainable
consumption and greater education on the benefits of greener practices were
seen as key. Teaching the impact of climate change, its science and how to
embed greener living in everyday life should be on the Schools curriculum.
"Young people face a
radically different future. By 2050 scientists tell us we have to cut carbon
emissions by at least 80%, which will fundamentally change our economy and the
way we live. This pioneering research shows that young people are up for the
challenge and want to see a more sustainable UK. They can’t do it on their own
and want business and government to step- up-to-the mark and speed up the
transition," Trewin Restorick, CEO of Global Action Plan, said. "The research also shows areas of
contention. More debate is needed on issues such as GM food, cutting air travel
emissions and moving away from intensive meat diets if all young people are to
be truly convinced."
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