Gen Z and Sustainability: A Young Person’s Perspective on Climate Action

By Pippa Jones

Alexandria, VA – Sustainability has been a predominant issue within society for a long time, starting during the Industrial Revolution when companies began to realize the effects of the production of CO₂ within the environment. As time went on, and big companies continued using greenhouse gasses, environmental concerns began to grow when society realized the negative impact. In the 70s, there was a stigma around those who cared about the environment, and they came to be known as “hippies.”

More than 50 years later, the issue of sustainability continues to influence society. As the issue of climate change becomes a growing concern, society turns to the next generation of leaders: Generation Z. While this issue is often associated with Gen Z, there is not much discussion on how Gen Z is actually feeling about it. Similar to the 1970s, there is still a stigma surrounding environmentalism and the people who practice sustainability. This divide amongst Gen Z has created what some may consider an environmental culture war.

Although Gen Z recognizes that climate change and pollution directly affect their future, some feel turned off by the idea of the trend of sustainability. For some, participating in sustainable practices feels performative rather than genuine. Others believe that sustainability is such a difficult issue that anything they do will not have an impact. There is also a lack of accessible information particularly about the risks of plastic available to Gen Z, making these issues seem distant and overwhelming.

In contrast, some Gen Z members feel motivated to adopt sustainable practices due to their education and awareness of environmental issues. They understand the risks of pollution and climate change and want to take action. The consumer trend of sustainability has drawn Gen Z into being sustainable. A survey from The World Economic Forum showed that Gen Z cares more about making sustainable purchases rather than purchasing brand names. Businesses have responded by trying to advertise sustainable practices to cater to the Gen Z audience.

Overall, Gen Z feels increasing pressure to contribute to sustainability but often lacks the information and confidence on where to start. By providing simple ways to be sustainable, communities can motivate greater participation. One way that sustainable practices have proven to be effective is through funactivism (a phrase adopted by the ALX Dog Walk), which combines social engagement with environmental action.

In Alexandria, eco-events that engage activism in a fun way unite people around sustainability. Lifestyle practices are some of the most prominent aspects of sustainability, and these actions are in your control. By providing more information to younger generations, a sustainable lifestyle is within reach.