Inspire’s Clean Energy Awareness & Action Index analyzes how climate education is shaping the next generation’s perspectives and actions
SANTA MONICA, Calif., Oct. 25, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Inspire, a leading clean energy technology company, today revealed results of its first Clean Energy Awareness & Action Index, which provides a deeper look at how young Americans feel and act on climate change and environmental issues today. The survey of 1,000 U.S. adults aged 18-25 found that the majority care about environmental issues—and strongly believe policies should be put in place to address them.
The environment is becoming increasingly more fragile. This past month, the UN released a special report on climate change, validating the urgent changes that need to be made now to limit global warming, or risk a significant impact on the environment and economy.
Most young Americans are aware of the ongoing environmental crisis and want to be part of the growing movement that supports renewable energy. The survey found that 77 percent of respondents said environmental issues are more important to them now than they were two years ago.
Young Americans expect more from environmental education
Education plays an important role in ensuring present and future generations understand environmental issues and are prepared to help mitigate the impacts of climate change. The survey found that access to classes and courses on the environment is rising, as well as students’ interest. Specifically:
- 96 percent of colleges offer courses on environmental issues
- 68 percent of young Americans, who were enrolled in an education institution, have taken courses on environmental issues
- Over 25 percent of young Americans wish they had learned about environmental policy or law, as well as sustainable solutions such as renewable energy or electric vehicles while in college
“The climate crisis is an urgent, global problem,” said Patrick Maloney, founder and CEO of Inspire. “It’s promising to see that our younger generation not only cares about environmental issues, but is taking action. With 59 percent of young Americans considering themselves ‘climate activists’, it is clear there is a growing movement that wants to learn about and support clean energy.”
Environmental awareness spurring more action from youth
Climate change is undeniably happening and young Americans today are not just taking notice, but taking action:
- 57 percent of young Americans are likely to pursue a job focused on the environment at some point in the future
- 79 percent have taken an environmental action in the last year, from making a lifestyle change (46 percent) to volunteering on their own (35 percent)
- Half of young Americans (52 percent) strongly agree that we need to use technology more to help the environment
“It’s never been more important to support our next generation of leaders and prepare them for successful careers in the industry,” continued Maloney. “I’m confident that our future is bright, and together we can accelerate the transition to 100% clean energy.”
For a deeper look at how young Americans feel about today’s environmental issues, the full 2018 Clean Energy Awareness & Action Index is available here.
Inspire is also working with youth across America to prepare them for career opportunities in cleantech and sustainability. Learn more about the program and how to get involved at https://www.dothebrightthing.org/.
Methodology
The Inspire Survey was conducted by Wakefield Research (www.wakefieldresearch.com) among 1,000 U.S. adults ages 18-25 who are currently enrolled in college, or who graduated in the past 2 years, between September 12th and September 18th, 2018, using an email invitation and an online survey.
About Inspire
Launched in 2014, Inspire's mission is to create a brighter energy future by simplifying consumer adoption of clean energy and smart home technologies. Disrupting the one-size-fits-all utility model, Inspire's groundbreaking Smart Energy subscription seamlessly combines personalized clean energy plans with best-in-class smart devices. Using Inspire's app, members control their smart homes from anywhere and select automated settings to use less energy while earning rewards. Inspire is dedicated to making it easy for everyone to have a smart, sustainable home. A Certified B-Corp, Inspire is nationally recognized for its commitment to making a positive impact on the planet. It was featured in Fast Company and Mashable, and chosen as one of Fortune's 50 Best Small Workplaces in 2017. Inspire products are available in select areas across the U.S. via helloinspire.com. The company is privately held, with offices in Culver City, CA and Philadelphia, PA.
Media Contact
Denise Schenasi, Sr. Communications Manager
press@helloinspire.com