The green gap between expression and action : A study of two generations’ consumption behavior and attitudes towards eco-labels in supermarkets

The environmental issue is more relevant and important than ever. As society’s awareness of environmental issues has gained, consumers’ and companies’ concerns aiming for a positive environmental impact have increased to save our planet. Eco-labels are common in grocery stores, where the labels guide consumers to choose an environmentally friendly alternative. However, consumers’ actions do not seem to correspond to their attitudes and intentions regarding environmental issues related to food products. This study investigates consumers’ attitudes towards eco-labels between Generation X (1965-1980) and Generation Z (1995-2002). Furthermore, this study aims to present, analyze, and compare somewhat differences and similarities in their attitudes, buying intentions, and purchase decisions. The theoretical framework is based on the theory of planned behavior by Azjen (1991) and the analytical framework, motivational and behavior, by Moisander (2007). In addition, the theoretical framework is complemented by concepts and theories within attitudes, eco-labels, and the attitude-behavior gap. The thesis is based on a qualitative research method with semi-structured interviews. The thematic analysis emerged five themes: environmental knowledge, motivation, buying intention, consumers’ behavior, and consumers’ understanding of eco-labels. The paper concludes that the attitude-behavior gap occurs in Generation X and Generation Z. However, the study results show that there is no clear attitude-behavior gap among the respondents in Generation X in comparison with Generation Z. Generation X is environmentally conscious, and their intentions and consumption behavior are carefully considered. Eco-labels are given priority compared to Generation Z, which is also environmentally aware but does not prioritize eco-labels in their consumption behavior.