Gen Z is a term that is prevalent in today’s society. As quoted from Beresford Research, Gen Z refers to the generation born between 1997 and 2012. Gen Z is a generation that is accustomed to technology, information, and sustainability demands. Unlike previous generations, Gen Z has grown up in an era where environmental issues are receiving increasing global attention.
Here are the environmental conditions that Gen Z faces and have the potential to continue evolving in the future:
- Climate Change: According to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), the global average temperature has risen by approximately 0.89 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. This indicates that more extreme climate change could occur if greenhouse gas emissions continue to increase and are projected to surpass the 1.5 degrees Celsius threshold.
- Resource Scarcity: The United Nations (UN) projects that more than 3.2 billion people worldwide may face a shortage of clean water by the year 2050 if no action is taken. Additionally, rapid deforestation is threatening land and forest resources.
- Plastic and Pollution: Citing a report from the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, it is shown that in 2019, the world produced approximately 368 million tons of plastic, with only about 9% of the total plastic produced being recycled.
Therefore, Gen-Z must be truly aware also think and act comprehensively for the long term because they will be the ones who will take part and even be policymakers in the future
According to the Global Risk Report 2023 published by the World Economic Forum, it can be seen that 59.2% of Gen Z believes that climate crisis is currently occuring ,59% are very concerned about the current climate crisis, and 64.5% of Gen Z believes that the climate crisis is causing significant damage to the environment. Therefore, there is a need to shift products towards eco-friendly options to minimize the potential climate crisis.
According to research conducted by First Insight and the Baker Retailing Center at the University of Pennsylvania in 2021, showed that Gen Z has a higher awareness of eco-friendly products compared to other generations.
Sustainable Purchase Decision Survey for Eco Friendly Product. Source First Insight and the Baker Retailing Center 2021.
Based on this data, it can be observed that Gen Z indeed has a higher awareness of eco-friendly products compared to millennials, Generation X, and baby boomers. The data also indicates that Gen Z is not Gen Z is not hesitant to purchase sustainable products that may cost up to 10% more. This percentage has increased from 54% in 2019 to 81% in 2021.
When discussing sustainable and eco-friendly products, it is important to note that packaging also plays a crucial role. Environmentally friendly packaging can help reduce the negative impact on the environment, especially in reducing plastic waste. At the “Pameran Konservasi Indonesia Maju” (Advanced Indonesia Conservation Exhibition) organized by the Belantara Foundation at Sarinah on September 9-10, 2023, Foopak Bio Natura stood out as a product championing the principles of eco-friendliness and sustainability.
The Advanced Indonesia Conservation Exhibition by Belantara Foundation at Sarinah
During the event, a survey was conducted among Gen Z participants regarding the use of eco-friendly packaging. The survey results showed that the level of awareness and enthusiasm among Gen Z regarding eco-friendly packaging exceeded 80%. This indicates that Gen Z plays a significant role in driving the shift towards more eco-friendly and sustainable packaging. the use of more eco-friendly and sustainable packaging.
Survey of Gen-Z Awareness of Eco-Friendly Packaging at the Indonesia Conservation Exhibition
Based on a survey conducted with more than 150 respondents, it was found that 94% prioritize eco-friendly packaging, and 93% are willing to pay more for environmentally friendly packaging. Gen Z is a generation that has grown up with awareness of environmental issues. They not only recognize these issues but actively seek out sustainable and eco-friendly products, which is a positive point and expected to be a long run trend. This certainly needs to be further improvement considering that Gen Z is one of the most crucial parts of the future. There is a need for awareness and goodwill going forward to change the situation for the better. Let’s use eco-friendly packaging for the sustainability of our collective future.
Asia Pulp and Paper Sinar Mas produces environmentally friendly paper that meets food-grade standards, known as Foopak Bio Natura. Foopak Bio Natura is an eco-friendly paperboard product suitable for both hot and cold food and beverages application that can be used as a container for both hot and cold food and beverages. This product is very environmentally friendly because it is recyclable, compostable, plastic-free, and can be repulped without the addition of any chemicals. The product is also FDA (Food Drugs Administration) certified, ISEGA certified and Halal certified by MUI (Indonesian Ulema Council), making it safe for use as food and beverage containers.
