New parents 'more likely to go green'

Becoming a parent and getting on the property ladder are the two milestones most likely to make us go green, according to new research.
By The Newsroom
Published 23rd Jan 2011, 22:43 BST
Updated 23rd Jan 2011, 22:43 BST

Around one in four (27 per cent) said the birth of their first child made them more environmentally conscious, while the same amount said buying a home was the main motivation.

These reasons came ahead of retirement (17 per cent) and moving in with a partner (nine per cent).

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The research also found discrepancy between environmental attitudes at home and at work.

Around nine in 10 (89 per cent) recycle at home, compared with around half (52 per cent) in the workplace. Meanwhile 78 per cent re-use plastic bags and bottles in the home but only a fifth (21 per cent) regularly do so in the workplace.

The survey of 2,000 adults was carried out by EDF Energy. The company founded Team Green Britain which encourages people and businesses to back its low carbon vision.

TV presenter and ambassador for the scheme Myleene Klass said: "As a mum, and with another baby on the way, it really makes sustainability issues hit home.

"As well as protecting the environment, becoming greener in your daily life can also help you save money too which is good news for all mums or mums-to-be."

Related topics:EDF Energy