Abstract
The diverse European landscape of climate consciousness is shaped by political values, financial constraints, and
country-specific point of view. The aim of the study was to unravel age-specific ecological awareness, forms of
engagement, and perceptions, contributing to a nuanced understanding of climate dynamics.
Selected regions: Germany (Rheinisches Revier), the Netherlands (Amsterdam Metropolitan Area), and Poland
(Upper Silesia/Metropolis GZM) present different states regarding recycling/Circular Economy principles, and
different environments.
The research design incorporates an inductive qualitative approach to investigate environmental awareness
and attitudes toward ecologically friendly behaviors. Six FGIs (Focus Group Interviews) were conducted across
three European regions, involving participants from diverse age groups (20–39 years and 40–60 years) in each
region.
The study shows that ecological awareness varies between countries and generations, reflecting distinctive
environmental strategies shaped by cultural and developmental factors. Participants in each region and age
group exhibit diverse levels of engagement in sustainable activities, and highlight issues such as the need for
tailored strategies, concerns related to eco-labelling, greenwashing, and inadequate waste treatment, as well as
information gaps.
These variations in pro-environmental attitudes and behaviors across age groups and regions underscore the
need for tailored strategies and regional policies. Transparency in waste management, eco-labelling, and sustainable transportation alternatives should be prioritized. Educational initiatives addressing information gaps,
especially regarding lifestyle choices, are crucial. Collaboration and interdisciplinary approaches are essential for
fostering positive change and a sustainable future across the European Union. Transparent communication,
regulatory measures, and accessible eco-friendly options encourage widespread adoption of pro-environmental
behaviors.
country-specific point of view. The aim of the study was to unravel age-specific ecological awareness, forms of
engagement, and perceptions, contributing to a nuanced understanding of climate dynamics.
Selected regions: Germany (Rheinisches Revier), the Netherlands (Amsterdam Metropolitan Area), and Poland
(Upper Silesia/Metropolis GZM) present different states regarding recycling/Circular Economy principles, and
different environments.
The research design incorporates an inductive qualitative approach to investigate environmental awareness
and attitudes toward ecologically friendly behaviors. Six FGIs (Focus Group Interviews) were conducted across
three European regions, involving participants from diverse age groups (20–39 years and 40–60 years) in each
region.
The study shows that ecological awareness varies between countries and generations, reflecting distinctive
environmental strategies shaped by cultural and developmental factors. Participants in each region and age
group exhibit diverse levels of engagement in sustainable activities, and highlight issues such as the need for
tailored strategies, concerns related to eco-labelling, greenwashing, and inadequate waste treatment, as well as
information gaps.
These variations in pro-environmental attitudes and behaviors across age groups and regions underscore the
need for tailored strategies and regional policies. Transparency in waste management, eco-labelling, and sustainable transportation alternatives should be prioritized. Educational initiatives addressing information gaps,
especially regarding lifestyle choices, are crucial. Collaboration and interdisciplinary approaches are essential for
fostering positive change and a sustainable future across the European Union. Transparent communication,
regulatory measures, and accessible eco-friendly options encourage widespread adoption of pro-environmental
behaviors.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Article number | 122515 |
| Journal | Journal of Environmental Management |
| Volume | 370 |
| Issue number | 122515 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - Nov 2024 |