How Sustainability is Becoming the Biggest Trend in 2021

The sustainability trend is a continuation of a movement that has gained increasing momentum in recent years. As consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the impact their actions and purchasing habits have on the environment, they are seeking out new ways to live and shop sustainably.

A key driver behind the sustainability trend is a growing awareness around the impact of climate change. From more frequent and severe natural disasters to declining crop yields, the impacts of climate change are being felt around the world. Long-term changes in the environment, such as rising sea levels, changes in precipitation patterns, and shifts in temperature will significantly impact the availability of resources, and as a result, individuals and organisations alike are becoming more carbon conscious.

In recent years, there has been a proliferation of companies offering eco-friendly products and services. From organic food to renewable energy, there are now a plethora of options available for those looking to live more sustainably. This trend is driven by consumer demand. According to a study by Nielsen, 72% of consumers are willing to pay more for products that are sustainably produced. Whatsmore, in 2021, the global electric vehicle market is expected to reach over $600 billion, with sales of EVs surpassing those of traditional gas vehicles for the first time.

You’re probably familiar with the phrase ‘small steps, big changes,’ well that’s one of the ways in which people are embracing sustainability in 2021. While some of these sustainable shifts are as simple as reducing energy consumption by turning off lights and appliances when not in use, others are slightly more significant, such as investing in home retrofits.

In addition to individual actions, sustainability is being driven by change at a societal level. In 2019 the UK declared a ‘climate emergency,’ setting the target to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. This is being actioned by the ‘Ten Point Plan for Green Industrial Revolution,’ outlining the steps to achieve this goal, including investment in offshore wind power to generate electricity in homes and the development of carbon capture, utilisation and storage to decarbonise heavy industry. Though smaller scale changes felt by individuals in their immediate lives are likely fuelling the sustainability trend in consumption, such as the ban on the sale of single-use plastic straws and stirrers to reduce plastic waste.

It’s exciting to see the shift being made by both individuals and businesses in adopting more sustainable practices. While there is still much work to be done, the sustainability trend is a positive development that will help to create a greener future for all.