Shoppers call on businesses to ‘act more sustainably’

MORE than six in 10 consumers want to see companies act more sustainably – with recyclable packaging, using less plastic and more renewable energy top of their wish-list.

A new study of 2,000 adults and their thoughts on sustainability and the environment found 76 per cent felt sustainability and climate change were important to them.

Others would like to see businesses use more sustainable products (38%), more recycling bins (37%) and refillable items (36%).

But it also emerged 56% felt too many businesses were “greenwashing” for marketing purposes rather than to make a significant difference to the planet.

Many also felt the motives for becoming more sustainable were self-serving, with wanting to be seen as doing their bit,while one-third felt wanting to save money in the long run was a factor compared to just 26% who think it’s due to wanting to help the planet.

Mark Jankovich, CEO of ecological cleaning products supplier Delphis Eco, which commissioned the study, said: “It’s encouraging to see just how important and valued most people are when it comes to our planet.

“The collective responsibility which many of us feel is fantastic to see and shows there’s a real appetite for sustainability.

“Changing perceptions around recycling and raising awareness is something we are looking to do. It’s never too late to learn.”

The research also found 45% of those polled felt businesses are not doing enough to improve their sustainability footprint.

However, smaller businesses (31%) are considered more proactive than big business (22%).