56% of people living in Scotland say they’re more concerned about climate change now, compared to this time last year, a survey by Zero Waste Scotland (ZWS) shows.
The survey also shows that Scots are not only quitting alcohol or fast food as New Year’s resolutions, 20% have committed to living more sustainably. 61% of respondents said they would reduce food waste, which was the most popular sustainable action highlighted.
While 55% said they would recycle more or better in 2024. 46% of people surveyed said they would consider buying fewer new products this year
ZWS released the data on International Quitter’s Day (Friday 12 January 2024), which is the day ZWS says people are most likely to give up on their New Year’s resolutions.
However, despite this trend, 43% of people surveyed said they intend to keep up their sustainable pledges for longer than 12 months. 14% committed to taking more “direct action” against climate change such as writing to their MSP and attending protests.
Curbing our consumption is the ultimate action we can all take, as it reduces demand for the finite raw materials needed to make new products.
The survey highlighted a variety of different choices Scots have committed to. 34% said they will reduce how often they buy single-use cups, 32% will repair or alter clothing instead of buying new, and 14% will explore leasing or sharing.
Commenting on the survey, Iain Gulland, Chief Executive of Zero Waste Scotland, said: “While some circular lifestyle choices have become second nature to many, it’s fantastic to see an increasing appetite from Scotland to live more sustainably. And what better time to create new habits than in the New Year?
“Curbing our consumption is the ultimate action we can all take, as it reduces demand for the finite raw materials needed to make new products. Doing so can help us cut the climate impacts of our purchasing decisions down to size, avoid the worst effects of climate change, and live within the limits of our natural environment.”
