International Youth Day is held each year on the 12th of August. This day gives the opportunity to celebrate and mainstream young people’s voices, actions and initiatives as well as recognise and celebrate the contributions and the efforts of the youth to develop the countries around the world. This day focuses on tweens and teens and their place in society and aims to protect and include them in the development of their communities (2).
Each year, a theme is chosen for the International Youth Day. Last year, the theme was ‘Youth Engagement for Global Action’. This year the theme is ‘Transforming Food Systems: Youth Innovation for Human and Planetary Health’. There is an evident connection between food and climate change, and it is time for all generations to come together, join the global mission and be part of the positive change our planet needs.
Gen-Z is faced with a huge challenge, but we know Gen-Z is equipped with the will and power to disrupt industries and contribute positively to the planet, to make a difference for many generations to come. According to a market research study from Packaged facts, Gen-Z’s buying power is predicted to exceed $3 trillion and food accounts for up to one fourth of their spending (4). This generation is aware of their consumer power, and they are very familiar with the impact food choices have on their health and the health of the environment. 65% of Gen-Z find plant-based food appealing while 75% say they are actively cutting down their meat consumption (4). Their spending power is on the rise alongside their behaviour and beliefs.
At MEET, we support the effort and dedication of our next generation to make the world a better place. The youth of today aren’t waiting for an invitation or permission, they’re demanding change now. They are rallying their peers, starting and fuelling movements, shifting brand loyalties and spending on brands that align with their values, calling out political leaders and defying the status quo to help shape a world they want to live in- one in which we can all thrive (2).
We are actively supporting the shift that is necessary to help the planet. We have made it part of our mission to deliver great tasting plant-based products that are good for your health and the planet too (3). Keep leading the change Gen Z!
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