The Power of 'Consumers' and Businesses in Saving the Planet

10/03/2023

by Ece Eyisoy

I am currently halfway through an online course called "Sustainable Marketing, Media, and Creative" at the University of Cambridge and am both terrified and inspired by what I have learned so far.

It's no secret that the planet is in a bit of a bind right now. Climate change, pollution, and habitat destruction are only a few of the challenges we're currently facing. One football field of rainforest is destroyed every six seconds. One billion plant and animal species are on the brink of extinction. By 2050, there will be more plastic in the oceans than fish if we continue with business as usual. (Nations United, 2020).
Unfortunately, governments and fossil fuel companies are not doing much to help the situation. However, the good news is that we don't have to wait for them to act. Consumers and businesses are already on board and ready to make a change and as creatives we have a great power and responsibility.
54% of Generation Z and 50% of millennials are willing to spend 10% or more on sustainable products. This is compared to 34% of Generation X and 23% of baby boomers (First Insight, 2019).
Due to sustainability concerns, 28% of consumers have stopped purchasing certain brands or products (Deloitte, 2021).
54% of Generation Z and 50% of millennials are willing to spend 10% or more on sustainable products. This is compared to 34% of Generation X and 23% of baby boomers (First Insight, 2019).Due to sustainability concerns, 28% of consumers have stopped purchasing certain brands or products (Deloitte, 2021).
Why are consumers and businesses taking the initiative to protect the environment? Firstly, it's the right thing to do morally. We all have a responsibility to protect the planet for future generations. Secondly, it makes financial sense. Sustainable business practices can help companies save money in the long run. For example, switching to renewable energy sources can help businesses save on their energy bills. Thirdly, protecting the environment is beneficial for our overall wellbeing. Clean air, water, and soil are essential for human health.
According to climate scientists, all the solutions and fixes that we need to combat this crisis already exist. The challenge we face is to help more people connect with these positive possibilities and make changes in their lives that are sustainable. Consumers and businesses can play a crucial role in this regard. They can choose to support sustainable products and services, reduce their waste, and adopt eco-friendly practices.

So, what can we do to make a difference?

First, as the author and wellbeing advocate Sarah Wilson suggests, we can start by shifting our mindset from being consumers to being citizens. By calling ourselves citizens, we acknowledge our responsibility towards the planet and our fellow living beings. We can take ownership of the problem and work towards a solution. This simple shift in mindset can have a profound impact on our actions and choices.
Second, as businesses and creatives, we can to make the idea of ‘less is more’ sexier than the current norm. We can do this by promoting sustainable products and services, adopting eco-friendly practices, and collaborate with companies that prioritise the environment. We need to make sustainability a part of our daily lives and business strategies.
The power to protect the planet lies in the hands of citizens and businesses. Let's work together to create a better future for ourselves and for generations to come. At Hype and Seek, we are committed to making this happen because we believe that change is possible and necessary. Join us in our mission to save the planet, one choice at a time. Together, we can make a real difference and build a world that is sustainable, equitable, and just. At our studio, we are rethinking our work process from taking briefs to delivering creative solutions. As creative citizens, we are constantly asking ourselves how our brain-print impacts brands, the creative strategies and decisions that affect long-term wellbeing for all. And we invite you to pause, reflect, and consider ways you can make positive change happen today.
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