Climate Change: How are older Generations dealing with it?
It isn’t new news that climate change activism has been increasing as the years pass by. But how are different generations dealing with that? In a recent study conducted by the Pew Research Center, it showed that Gen Z and Millenials are more active than older generations in addressing the climate change situation.
Millennials and Gen Zs were the ones with the highest percentage in engaging with social media content regarding climate change, ensuring a sustainable future as a top priority, and in addressing climate change as personal concern.
These generations are also the ones more involved in activities, such as protests and volunteering, that impact the climate situation. When it comes to automobile issues, Gen Z and Millennials are most likely to be in favor of phasing out gas-powered vehicles and oppose more offshore oil and gas drilling.
Whilst in the U.S, Gen Z and Millennials have more attitude and concern towards climate change, in the UK, Baby Boomers are the second generation most likely to make significant changes in their lifestyle to help reduce climate change impact, according to a survey made by King's College London.
However, in the U.S and UK, both Baby Boomers and Gen X agree that environment related concerns shouldn’t be more important than economic growth. While younger generations worry about the Earth’s future, olders are more concerned about inflation and how it can affect their money savings.
In addition, careers focused on sustainability are growing significantly, and according to the website Green Queen, the Generation Alpha (children of millennials) are more likely to follow professions environmentally related. As a plus, Gen Zs have been focusing on working for companies that are sustainable-driven. Our generation wants to be part of companies that are value-aligned with what’s good for the world.
In the end, even though different generations have their own opinions, when it comes to climate change, we are all united in doing what’s necessary to save the Earth. However, we do need more commitment from olders generations, since they make up the majority of those in charge when it comes to politics and the economy.
Sources:
Gen Z Are The Climate Career Generation. These 5 Stats Prove It - [Green Queen]
Who Cares About Climate Change? - [King’s College London]
Gen Z, Millennials Stand Out for Climate Change Activism, Social Media Engagement With Issue - [Pew Research Center]
Boomers worry about inflation eating their savings. Gen Zers worry about climate change eating their planet - [Insider]