Going Green: A report on Australian consumer attitudes to climate action
Australians have had a front-row seat to the devastating consequences of climate change over the past few years, from the summer bushfires of 2020 to the recent floods in the eastern states. Despite the pandemic, climate change has become increasingly front-of-mind for consumers and in politics.
Our report finds Australians are more concerned about the environment than they were one year ago, and are more likely to make sustainable changes in their lives. Interestingly, we find the largest improvements in green attitudes and behaviours are among those who are statistically more averse to or sceptical of environmentalism: men, older generations and regional dwellers.
We explore the drivers of eco-friendly behaviour, how social influence can be used to reshape consumer behaviour in today's hyper-connected world, and some of the challenges associated with going green. We analyse how much money different sustainable behaviours could save consumers, as well as their environmental benefits. We draw on insights from Finder's team of experts on how consumers can make small changes that benefit their finances and the planet in one fell swoop.
Nearly 9 in 10 Australians (88%) have reduced their environmental impact in some way.
Using less plastic (62%), using energy-efficient appliances (44%) and installing energy-efficient lighting (42%) are the most common sustainable practices.
Women (75%) and gen Z (83%) are the demographic groups most concerned about their carbon footprint.
Men (66%) and baby boomers (55%) are the least concerned about their carbon footprint.
More than half of Australians (57%) are more mindful of their environmental impact since COVID-19.
1 in 2 Australians actively looks for greener products or services.
Concern about climate change (73%), wanting to feel good about personal choices (57%) and setting a good example for others (48%) are the top reasons people choose green products.
Switching to a sustainable super fund could save the average worker an annualised $6,490 per year over a 45-year period.
Concern for the environment is growing
Since releasing last year's Green Consumer Report 2021, Australians have become more concerned about the planet. We compared the year ending April 2022 to the year ending April 2021, and found the percentage of people who are not at all concerned about their carbon footprint dropped from 35% to 31%. The percentage who are extremely concerned increased from 12% to 14%.
How much does it cost to go green?
Making sustainable changes does not have to be expensive. Finder analysis found a number of green choices could actually save money, and some of the simplest switches have the largest impact on carbon emissions.
The Finder Green Awards help consumers make more sustainable choices
While our research found most Australians are concerned about their carbon footprints, three in four (76%) agree it's hard to know which products or services are truly better for the environment.
Fortunately, Finder has done the hard work through the Finder Green Awards, which highlight the top companies paving the way in sustainability. From superannuation to cleaning products, the Awards are a great place to start for those looking to switch to environmentally friendly alternatives.
Sophie Wallis is a senior insights analyst with a passion for data storytelling. She spends her time turning complex data into digestible stories and uncovering new consumer trends. When she isn't working, you'll find her planning her next overseas holiday or bingeing on a big novel. Sophie has a Bachelor of Economics from the University of Melbourne.
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Australians have had a front-row seat to the devastating consequences of climate change over the past few years, from the summer bushfires of 2020 to the recent floods in the eastern states. Despite the pandemic, climate change has become increasingly front-of-mind for consumers and in politics.
While our research found most Australians are concerned about their carbon footprints, three in four (76%) agree it's hard to know which products or services are truly better for the environment.