A new study in the UK commissioned by car manufacturer Hyundai has revealed the challenges British people face on the road to adopting a greener lifestyle. The study found 68 percent admitted they aren’t doing everything they could to help the environment.
The study of 2,000 people revealed 55 percent of people said that cost is a top barrier stopping people embracing greener habits. Interestingly, it also found that 27 percent are confused about how best to be green, while nearly half can’t bear the idea of giving up meat to be environmentally friendly.
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When it comes to playing our part for the planet, 35 percent admitted to feeling guilty about how little they do for the environment. It also emerged one in five adults feel it’s been harder to do things to help the environment over the last 12 months, following the effects of the pandemic and the need to prioritise other things.
Top 10 Barriers to Being Green in 2022
- Cost
- Not wanting to be vegetarian/vegan
- Confusion over what to do
- Difficultly in giving up certain habits
- Enjoy buying new things
- A lack of time
- Doubt the effectiveness of it all
- A lack of motivation
- Restricted by home location
- Physical disabilities – for example, unable to walk or cycle
Hyundai set out to learn more about what we can individually and collectively do to support the planet, by taking the Hyundai IONIQ 5 on the road for its ‘Drive The Change’ tour.
Climate campaigner and presenter Jamie Anley spoke to some of the UK’s experts, leaders and changemakers committed to sustainability, to unpack the green habits and lifestyle choices that make meaningful impact. A common theme that emerged was that we can all make a difference with the actions we take, no matter how small they seem.
Ashley Andrew, Hyundai Motor UK managing director, said: “Many seem to be struggling when it comes to making greener changes, but what we learnt through the Drive The Change tour is that we can do better for the environment by pressing on with the changes we can make both individually and collectively.
“Whether that’s cutting down on meat, using less plastic, or driving electric vehicles, we can all find ways to adapt our everyday lifestyles.”
The study also revealed generational differences, with seven out of 10 Gen Z respondents – aged 18-24 – believing the last year has helped them understand more about what they can do to tackle climate change. It also found 47 percent of Gen Z are constantly seeking tips and advice to help them be greener, compared with only six percent of those aged 55-64.
With escalating fuel costs, 40 percent of those aged 18-24 are considering switching to electric vehicles (EVs), compared to 22 percent aged 55-64.
