In numbers: The growing consumer demand for sustainable packaging

Undertaken by consultancy Coleman Parkes Research on behalf of packaging industry body Pro Carton, the European consumer packaging perceptions survey quizzed more than 7,000 shoppers across the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain and Turkey on questions ranging from on-pack recycling information to tax breaks for packaging manufacturers recycled content.

After recent research revealed that consumer demand for recycled plastic packaging is outpacing corporate action in the UK, the survey sheds new light on how public demand for resource-efficient and recyclable packaging is rising among all age groups.

“Consumer attitudes are changing and there is a growing consensus that brands and retailers need to act and make necessary changes for both the future of the planet and their businesses,” Pro Carton’s general manager Tony Hitchin said.

“The environment has never been so high on the agenda and consumers are willing to act to protect it, be that with their feet or their wallets. It’s time for us all – associations, brands, retailers and manufacturers – to listen to consumers and make sure that packaging sustainability is a priority.”

The publication of the survey results comes shortly after an unprecedented number of respondents to a UK Government consultation examining plastic waste called for the implementation of increased rates of tax on virgin plastics, coupled with tax breaks for manufacturers using post-consumer recycled (PCR) content.

It also comes just weeks before the Government is expected to publish its highly anticipated Resources & Waste Strategy, which Environment Secretary Michael Gove has confirmed will include new restrictions on single-use plastics.

With this in mind, the survey acts as a snapshot of the public’s packaging-related needs and desires, as awareness surrounding plastic pollution reaches a fever pitch. Here, edie rounds up the key facts.

In numbers: the UK public’s attitudes towards sustainable packaging

Sarah George