Hong Kong consumers lack ESG awareness despite support for sustainability: report

Corporations and governments can play a huge role in promoting ESG awareness.

In Hong Kong, 51% of consumers said they were either completely unaware of or had little knowledge about ESG, scoring just 3.42 out of 10, according to a survey by Sun Life.

On the flip side, 88% of respondents support protecting the environment and ecosystems, 82% agree with improving the lives of underprivileged communities through public welfare activities, and 91% recognize the importance of following regulations.

In terms of sustainable living, Hong Kong consumers scored 53.56 out of 100, indicating a preference for common, low-barrier actions for sustainable living over more complex or inconvenient ones.

Sun Life also revealed that teenagers and young consumers are more proactive in adopting sustainable lifestyles.

To promote ESG awareness, Sun Life recommends that the government and corporations engage young people in personal and public health-related activities.

Corporations and government communications should also better align with community concerns and current lifestyles. Sun Life also noted that promoting community volunteer work can boost interest in sustainable living.

In addition, corporations and governments should use clear language when promoting ESG initiatives and increase transparency about their ESG investments to better communicate the benefits of sustainable lifestyles.

Sun Life surveyed 1,004 Hong Kong adults, conducted online interviews with 213 secondary school students, and held focus groups and expert interviews from January to June.