The green movement has grown in a massive way over the last few years, with more and more people looking at the small changes they can make in their lives that might just have a big impact on the planet.
Consumers are paying more attention to what they buy and where it comes from in an effort to be more environmentally conscious. That means they are paying attention to the packaging of the products they buy as well, and many are looking for sustainable and recyclable options to help reduce their carbon footprint.
Here to explain more, Adele Thomas, Owner of Distinctive Confectionery shares her insight into why consumers want eco-friendly packaging.
The Plastic Revolution
For many years, we wanted cheap products which had short shelf lives and came from far flung corners of the globe that we can hardly locate on a map. Everything we bought was plastic because it was seen as more durable, and the packaging it came in was usually plastic too. Plastic gave us convenience as it could be moulded into any shape and costs very little, and unfortunately, we never gave a thought to its cost to the planet.
These days, consumers are much more aware, and are moving away from these single-use plastics which are thrown away and take potentially hundreds of years to break down. Instead, they are looking for brands which are actively trying to recuse the impact that they have on the environment through biodegradable packaging, recyclable items or sustainably sourced materials. Many have seen the impact that plastics can have on the oceans and wildlife, and so are taking steps to avoid buying it.
Customers want to make a change for the good of everyone, and they know that if we all make small changes, there can be a big difference. It is thought that at least a third of European consumers actually prefer products which are found within environmentally friendly packaging.
It is believed that as much as 79% of plastic finishes up in landfill and within the environment. With a rise in recycling facilities both at home and out and about, more people than ever are looking for packaging which can be easily recycled to avoid the long-term damage that other types of packaging can do.
The price factor
Wanting to make the world a better place is a noble ambition, but the sad fact remains that eco-friendly packaging still costs more than the plastic alternative. Many companies have therefore steered away from it, fearful of putting people off and pricing themselves out of the market when they inevitably increase the cost of their product.
However, a recent study has found that 74% of consumers are actually willing to pay more for sustainable packaging, with a quarter of them willing to absorb a price hike of 10% or more.
There is increased consumer awareness of the problems that we face and where they come from, with many more people now focusing on sustainable living. They know that saving the planet will come at a price, and it seems that it is a price most people seem willing to pay.
Now, consumers want to see the brands that they buy follow suit, by making their products more environmentally friendly, and they are prepared to vote with their feet if they don’t meet expectations.
Eco-friendly packaging can still be attractive and practical, and instead of putting consumers off, it now actively attracts them towards a brand. Sustainable packaging is a big selling point, and so it can not only help to reduce the carbon footprint of your brand, but also increase your sales as well.
Adele Thomas is the owner of Distinctive Confectionery; a corporate confectionery company that's been supplying businesses with high quality personalised biscuits, sweets and chocolates for over 20…
