Sustainable Living and the Older Community

Climate change is the greatest long-term challenge facing the world today. It not only poses a threat to the UK's long term economic stability but also to the quality of life of its citizens. Whilst there are many initiatives in place to mitigate climate change and to adapt (both buildings and living practices) to the inevitable climate change resulting from past consumption of fossil fuels, it is generally accepted that real change will only come about if such initiatives are supported by a change in behaviour amongst UK households. Such changes would include a more positive attitude towards low carbon technologies (both at the micro and grid level) and a greater understanding of the potential problems that climate change could pose, especially to vulnerable groups. This proposal will seek to stimulate this change through focussed engagement with older UK community.The factors that influence the uptake of low (or zero) carbon micro-generation technologies are not primarily technological but behavioural. Studies into behaviour change, and in particular the factors that influence it, have identified the importance of social networks and community groupings as trusted advocates was identified as critical to successfully influencing peer behaviour. Further, work by the Energy Savings Trust has identified 10 community segments that respond differently to sustainability interventions. Amongst these segments are: 'the Discerning Elders' / professional couples on the cusp of retirement who have limited financial commitments, are interested in environmental issues, and offer considerable opportunities for behaviour change; and the 'Restful Retired' / elderly couples and widow/widowers who could benefit financially from the savings that could accrue from energy efficiency measure. This project will work with those agencies trusted by the elderly (Age Concern, Heyday, Energy Saving Trust & Friends of the Elderly) to support behaviour change through public engagement focussed on the older UK community. The engagement will be designed to stimulate interest in climate change mitigation and adaptation solutions and engage this community in a public debate over the best way forward for the UK.