Press release, [embargo] 00:01 Tuesday 5th January 2021
Environment ranked more important than romance in UK’s New Year’s resolutions • 1 in 6 choosing to reduce their impact on the environment • Public want to stop being sold “unnecessary stuff” • January sales may be hit by consumers “making do”
• Hubbub highlights key steps for households to help UK reach net zero Is this the year that consumers really go green? New research* from environmental charity Hubbub which surveyed 3,000 adults in the UK, shows that 1 in 6 people are making a New Year’s resolution to reduce their impact on the environment. This ranked higher than resolutions about romantic relationships, relationships with friends and hobbies.1 Over half of this group said they plan to recycle better (54%) which topped the list, followed by eating less meat (49%), cycling/walking more for shorter journeys (38%) and wasting less food (36%)2. 34% of those making an environmental New Year’s resolution plan to buy less “unnecessary stuff”. This theme was echoed when people were asked what the top priorities for companies and brands should be. The top three, which all ranked higher than looking after employees first and foremost and allowing employees to work at home more often, were:
• Stop making and selling products that nobody actually needs (30%) • Produce products that are designed to last (30%) • Stop putting pressure on consumers to buy things we don’t need (27%) The survey also showed shifting attitudes and habits in clothes purchasing, suggesting grim January sales for retailers and manufacturers, but potentially positive news for the environment. 61% of those polled said they are choosing comfort and warmth over fashion this winter. This was even true for 16-24 year olds, the age group which normally has the highest levels of fast fashion purchases, with over half agreeing with the statement. 61% said instead of shopping for new clothes, they are generally making do with what they’ve got at the moment.