Concern among environmentalists and youth over the lack of tangible action against climate change
In a recent survey, it has been revealed that the majority of young Italians are concerned about environmental issues, with 51.6% actively avoiding unnecessary energy consumption and climate change and air pollution being their top concerns. However, engagement in eco-friendly behaviours among this age group is lower compared to their older counterparts.
To bridge this gap, several strategies can be implemented to encourage Italian youth to reduce waste and conserve resources.
Firstly, education and awareness programs tailored to youth are crucial. These green and sustainable learning programs, which emphasize practical behaviours alongside knowledge, can make eco-friendly actions accessible and relatable for young people. Comparative studies highlight the importance of youth and adult learning in driving sustainable agendas in Italy.
Secondly, eco-feedback strategies, which provide real-time information and feedback about environmental impact, have been shown to positively influence short-term behaviour change. Awareness campaigns combined with experimental interventions can motivate youth to adopt sustainable practices by making the consequences of their actions more tangible.
Thirdly, Italy's cultural sector can be leveraged to promote sustainability. Involving youth through creative and cultural initiatives connects environmental responsibility with personal identity and community values, increasing commitment to resource conservation. The "4C - Cultural and Creative Carbon Cut" project, aiming for net-zero emissions by 2050, is a prime example of this approach.
Fourthly, participatory and resilience-building projects that focus on community-based climate resilience and involve stakeholders, including youth, students, and local communities, help foster a sense of ownership and practical engagement. Such participatory approaches increase the likelihood of sustained behaviour change by linking efforts to local heritage and ecosystems.
Lastly, cross-sector collaboration and capacity building are essential. Encouraging exchanges between students, teachers, policymakers, and SMEs through workshops and joint actions broadens social support networks for sustainable behaviour. Capacity-building efforts that empower youth to take leadership roles can reinforce eco-friendly practices as social norms.
It is important to note that women, on average, are more attentive to adopting eco-friendly behaviours than men. Additionally, while only 52.5% of Italians aged 14 to 24 pay attention to not wasting water, the percentage of Italians over 55 who pay attention to this issue is significantly higher at 74.7%.
With these strategies in place, it is hoped that Italian youth will be inspired to move from environmental concern to consistent eco-friendly behaviour, leveraging both cognitive and social drivers, tailored to young people’s specific contexts and values.
- To complement education and awareness programs, eco-feedback strategies could be used to provide real-time information on energy consumption and environmental impact, helping young Italians understand the consequences of their actions and motivate them to adopt sustainable practices.
- The home-and-garden sector, along with promoting sustainable living principles, can offer practical educational resources that are relevant to young people, helping them incorporate eco-friendly behaviors into their lifestyles.
- Incorporating environmental science and climate-change topics into the educational-and-self-development curricula can foster a deeper understanding of the issues among youth and encourage them to explore possible solutions.
- By providing opportunities for youth to engage in community-based climate resilience projects, individuals can contribute meaningfully toward creating a more sustainable environment, while simultaneously fostering personal growth and learning valuable life skills.
