Myths & Facts About People Going Green
"Going green" is one of the fastest-growing trends in individual lifestyles. It finds expression in the growth of eco-friendly products such as organic foods, the desire to reduce energy consumption and an overall awareness of the effects that individual lifestyle choices have on the health of the planet. However, numerous myths and stereotypes exist about people who choose a greener lifestyle. Fortunately, a recent study has helped to dispel these myths.
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Myth: Environment the No. 1 Concern
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Many people who are skeptical of or unsympathetic to green lifestyles hold a stereotype of people who go green as old hippies concerned with saving the environment to the exclusion of all other factors. A recent survey, however, suggests that the economy is the top concern of so-called green consumers. According to Ecohome magazine, a survey of more than 1,000 American consumers who buy green products found that 59 percent of those surveyed ranked the economy as their chief concern. Only 8 percent ranked the environment as their top concern.
Myth: Reducing the "Carbon Footprint"
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A related myth about adopting a greener lifestyle is that such consumers reduce their energy consumption only because of a desire to reduce their personal impact, or "carbon footprint," on the environment. The survey reported by Ecohome asked consumers the most important reason for reducing their energy consumption. More than 70 percent cited lower heating and cooling bills as their most important reason; only 26 percent cited reduced environmental impact.
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Myth: Going Green is More Expensive
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It's true that some elements of a greener lifestyle, such as organic foods and more energy-efficient lightbulbs, initially cost more, but measures to reduce energy use, such as turning off extra lights and lowering your thermostat, save money over the long term. According to an article on myths about living green published on the website bankrate.com, eco-friendly products and appliances pay for themselves through lower energy costs.
Myth: Demographic Homegeneity
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People who adopt green lifestyles are often stereotyped as fitting a single demographic profile. They may be stereotyped as predominantly upper-income elites or as young people in the 18-to-25 age group. The survey reported by Ecohome found that green consumers do not fit a single age group, income bracket or ethnic identity. The survey did, however, find that green consumers are more open to trying new and different things.
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