Are consumers more aware of sustainability?

Friday, April 22 marks Earth Day’s 52nd anniversary. People will be attending rallies, beach clean ups, organizing projects to better the earth and slightly adjust their everyday actions to help the planet. While these are all things that positively impact the environment, it is easy to fall back into our non-sustainable living practices after the day is over. Whether it be out of convenience or habit, using products that damage the environment is easier than seeking more sustainable alternatives to use within our daily lives. Being aware of the ways in which we can help the planet on an individual level may help us create positive long-lasting habits that impact our world for the better.  

For the 52nd anniversary, Earth Day published 52 ways to make a difference every day, not only on Friday. The list varies from easier options such as picking up trash while outside, using reusable bags, water bottles and utensils to more challenging options including growing your own garden, purchasing organic products and changing your diet to lower your foodprint. 

Some of the 52 ideas can be slowly introduced into our routines. After reading through the list of Earth Day tips I realized I can incorporate many of these without it being a large commitment. While going on a coffee run it’s not difficult to pick up the mask on the sidewalk or the plastic water bottle that just missed the trash can. I am a vegetarian, however it would be easy for me to have a plant-based day once a week, thus lowering my own foodprint. Incorporating these actions can make a change, however, it is difficult to think about sustainability without recognizing the negative affects larger corporations have on the planet.  

Consumer research and sustainability  

Some larger corporations have slowly started to incorporate more eco-friendly practices. Could this be due to the increased awareness of sustainability from their consumers? According to a Whole Foods Magazine survey, 82% of Americans consider a company’s environmental record when making a purchase, 56% believe carbon neutrality is more important to them now than two years ago and 65% of Gen Z consumers avoid purchasing products from non-sustainable companies. The increase in importance regarding sustainability from consumers has been drastic over the past few years. This change has led companies to take responsibility and either implement more sustainability practices within their production methods or lose customers. 

While I try to remain conscientious of my actions, convenience often overpowers. Reflecting on the past year, I have found it easier to choose single use plastic instead of reusable items. To me, Earth Day will serve as a reminder of how much good we can have on the planet, especially if we choose to incorporate sustainable changes into our everyday lives.