Quebec Residents Demonstrate Increased Eco-awareness Compared to 15 Years Past
From "Green" to "Eco-Chic": Evolution of Eco-Conscious Lifestyles in Quebec Over the Past Decade
From Reflex to Routine
"Ten years ago, being environmentally friendly meant making a conscious effort to purchase eco-friendly products," says Émilie Desrosiers, researcher at the University of Quebec in Montreal and head of this study. The research was commissioned last year, examining consumer behavior since 2010.
For Quebecers, being eco-friendly is increasingly becoming a part of their everyday lives, as evidenced by a recent poll that found 64% of respondents feel they have become more eco-conscious than they were a decade ago.
Women, especially, are leading the charge, making the switch to more sustainable lifestyle choices early on. Seniors are also embracing the change, favoring local and seasonal produce.
"Men often perceive themselves as eco-conscious without engaging in concrete actions," highlights Mr. Desrosiers.
On the flip side, young people aged 18-24 are the least committed, expressing concerns about climate change but feeling hesitant to alter their habits.
Embracing Second-Hand and Shared Economy
In the last decade, the second-hand market has become much more mainstream. Today, 10% of the population buys at least one used item each week, and only one-third never purchases second-hand items at all.
Sites like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace have grown in popularity, while second-hand stores like Revive, Recy-cycle, and the Salvation Army have gained traction.
"We've seen a shift in mindset, moving away from the use of new items and more towards waste reduction and reuse," observes Mr. Desrosiers.
A Green Revolution in Quebec: Reality Check
Although our commitment to the environment has grown, not all green practices have proven sustainable.
While some commendable actions are being taken - 64% now use a reusable water bottle, 44% always use reusable bags, and 44% bring their own reusable cup to coffee shops - the pandemic has severely impacted these positive developments. Bulk sections, in particular, have been losing support due to concerns about COVID-19.
Local buying is the most volatile behavior over the past decade; its popularity fluctuates with economic, political, or health factors. The pandemic, for example, has renewed interest in local shopping, while inflation has sparked a decline.
Who Holds the Key to Change?
The survey found that the majority of Quebecers believe everyone shares the responsibility for making changes in consumption. They also expect more eco-friendly solutions from businesses, such as marketing durable, repairable, and recyclable products, finding ways to extend product lifespans, and providing transparency about environmental and social impacts.
However, according to Mr. Desrosiers, "We're at a critical juncture. With growing eco-fatigue, we need to provide accessible, easy solutions for citizens to stay engaged in this movement towards eco-conscious consumption."
Eco-Awareness in Quebec: Progress and Challenges
Emergence of Sustainable Habits
In the quest for a greener tomorrow, Quebecers have taken strides in adopting eco-friendly practices in their daily lives. From reducing waste and recycling to supporting local businesses and embracing the second-hand economy, our commitment to the environment has become a part of our lifestyle.
The Road to Sustainability: Obstacles Ahead
While there have been improvements in eco-conscious behavior, certain barriers persist. The transition to eco-friendly choices can be pricier, less convenient, and met with skepticism. Education, policy changes, and innovation will help break down these barriers and make our green revolution a lasting success.
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- In Quebec, the government is encouraging citizens to adopt responsible eco-friendly practices in their daily lives, such as using reusable water bottles and bags.
- Over the past decade, there has been a significant shift in Quebecers' consumption habits, with 64% of respondents feeling more eco-conscious than they were a decade ago.
- The second-hand market has become much more mainstream in Quebec, with 10% of the population buying at least one used item each week.
- Women and seniors in Quebec have been leading the charge for environmentally friendly practices, while young people aged 18-24 are the least committed.
- The science and health-and-wellness communities have embraced eco-conscious lifestyle choices, such as sustainable living, fitness-and-exercise, and home-and-garden practices that promote environmental sustainability.
- Climate change and its impact on the environment are becoming increasingly important concerns for Quebecers, with many expressing a willingness to adopt eco-friendly practices.
- Environmental-science professionals believe that government regulations, education, and innovation are crucial in breaking down barriers to eco-friendly choices and making sustainable living a long-term solution.
- The Quebec government is currently facing challenges related to childcare and remote work, along with concerns about elevated ozone levels in North America, which raises concerns about air quality and potential impacts on human health.
