Future Generations are Looking to Increase Sustainable Initiatives within the Workplace
Overview:
The 2024 Gen Z and Millennial Survey by Deloitte highlights that climate change and environmental sustainability significantly influence both workplace and consumer behaviors among Gen Z and millennials. With over 22,800 respondents from 44 countries, the survey found that more than 40% have left or plan to leave jobs due to climate concerns, nearly two-thirds are willing to pay more for sustainable products, and many reject work assignments conflicting with their environmental values. Additionally, these generations increasingly research companies' environmental policies before job acceptance and purchasing decisions, with substantial percentages avoiding fast fashion, reducing air travel, adopting plant-based diets, and purchasing or planning to purchase electric vehicles, reflecting their strong commitment to sustainability.
Summary:
The 2024 Gen Z and Millennial Survey by Deloitte reveals that climate change and environmental sustainability significantly influence workplace and consumer behaviors among Gen Z and millennials. The survey, which included over 22,800 respondents from 44 countries, found that over 40% of these young professionals have left jobs or plan to leave due to climate concerns, and nearly two-thirds are willing to pay more for environmentally sustainable products. A high sense of purpose is crucial for job satisfaction, with 86% of Gen Z and 89% of millennials emphasizing its importance, leading many to reject assignments that conflict with their values on environmental or social issues.
Climate change is a major concern for these generations, with 62% of Gen Z and 59% of millennials expressing worry about it, and over half believing they can influence environmental protection. The survey also noted that a significant portion of respondents research companies' environmental policies before accepting jobs, with increasing percentages year over year. Moreover, 75% consider an organization's societal impact crucial when job hunting, and nearly half have switched or plan to switch jobs over environmental concerns.
Consumer behavior is equally impacted by sustainability values, with 64% of Gen Z and 63% of millennials willing to pay more for sustainable products. Many avoid fast fashion, reduce air travel, and adopt vegetarian or vegan diets to support environmental sustainability. The survey also found that 18% of Gen Z and 19% of millennials have purchased electric vehicles, with many more planning to do so. These findings underscore the critical role that environmental sustainability plays in shaping the professional and personal choices of younger generations.
