Green habits and the price tag

Pew Research Center surveyed 3,524 U.S. adults from March 16 to 22, 2026. Nearly all Americans report at least one eco-friendly behavior, but outside recycling, saving money and convenience often explain the behavior more than environmental intent.

1. Frame 1Pew tests five green habits with 3,524 U.S. adults: the pressure starts at the household bill, not the climate chart.
2. Frame 295% regularly turn off unused lights. 55% limit home water, 48% buy secondhand, and 38% carpool or drive less.
3. Frame 3For lights and secondhand shopping, money leads: 78% cite saving money for lights, and 76% cite it for buying secondhand.
4. Frame 4Recycling is the exception: two-thirds recycle regularly, and 76% of those recyclers say helping the environment is a major reason.
5. Frame 5The policy lesson is practical: cheaper and easier green choices spread farther than appeals to climate concern alone.
6. Frame 6The next test is where the default sits: meter, store, curb, or commute. Behavior can move before beliefs do.