Dating agencies accused of bringing green dogma ‘into the bedroom’
Dating websites and agencies have been accused of pushing green dogma “into the bedroom” after a number were found to be questioning users on their attitudes towards environmental issues.
Experts have told The Telegraph that environmental matters are playing an increasingly large role in partner preferences.
On one popular site, eharmony, users are asked: “What do you think about climate change, conservation, renewable energy etc?” when filling out their profiles.
They are only given the choice of answers indicating that they want more to be done, or that they would “prefer to ignore what’s happening – it’s too horrible”.
Hayley Bystram, the founder and chief executive of the exclusive matchmaking agency Bowes-Lyon Partnership, said criteria such as sustainability, environment, politics and the climate are all factors in her members’ requirements. She explained: “They see someone’s beliefs in these areas as a reflection of their morals and values and whether they have synergy for a future relationship.”
Attitude to parenthood could hinge on beliefs
Ms Bystram, whose agency caters to professionals aged 30-75, added: “We have had incidences with some of our younger clientele in their 30s, where they have different opinions on family and the number of children they would envision in their future (or whether they would have children at all) because of the impact this may have on the environment.”
She said that among older, perhaps retired members, there might be incompatibility between the desire of some to travel extensively and the decision of others to restrict long-haul travel because of its impact on the environment. “These differing opinions dramatically impact people’s views on compatibility with a future partner,” she said.
Terms such as “carbon dating” and “green dating” have been coined in recent years to describe an increasing focus on environmentalism in dating. New York City has played host to a speed-dating event titled “Love and Climate” to help eco-conscious single people connect.
But Harry Wilkinson, the head of policy at Net Zero Watch, which campaigns for more balanced and transparent scrutiny of climate science and policy research, said it was a worrying trend.
Dating a chance to meet people ‘with new perspectives’
He said: “The green dogma seems to be slipping its way into the bedroom. Many people already put ‘no Tories’ in their profiles, and this kind of question only seems to allow for those who uncritically worship at Greta’s altar.
“What happens if you’re looking for someone who thinks for themselves? Dating can be an exciting opportunity to meet someone with new perspectives and I hope that people will still remain open to that.”
A spokesperson at eharmony said: “At eharmony, to help our members make the most meaningful connections, we take our time in getting to know them first. We all prioritise different aspects of compatibility in our romantic relationships, and our Compatibility Quiz includes a variety of questions to help us – and our members – better understand who they are and what matters most to them.
“This includes questions on everything from your hobbies, to qualities you find most attractive in a partner to stances on topical issues. eharmony members represent adults of all ages, demographics, backgrounds and beliefs. What they share is a desire to be loved, understood and celebrated for who they are.”
