Pro Carton, the European association of carton and folding carton manufacturers, has just released the results of a study carried out on its behalf by Perspectus Global into European consumers' attitudes to the environment and perceptions of packaging. Just over 5,000 people were questioned, equally divided between Germany, France, Italy, Spain and the UK.
Climate change worries the French, so they recycle more
Climate change appears to be Europeans' main environmental concern, with a response rate of 68%.
And recycling more is given as the solution to adopt (71%) to try and combat this change, ahead of reforestation (62%) and the use of natural resources (60%).
French consumers, at 70%, are among the most concerned, but are taking sustainable measures, such as increasing waste recycling (69%) and preserving water resources (59%).
Paper and cardboard, the most recyclable materials
France is Europe's biggest recycler, and the study reveals that the most recyclable materials for the French are paper and cardboard (94%), closely followed by corrugated board and glass (93% and 91% respectively).
French consumers are 90% in favor of fiber-based packaging, which puts them in the lead in Europe just behind the Italians, and marks the very clear shift in consumer preferences over the past two years (86% in 2022).
Choosing a more sustainable way of life has now become important for 62% of Europeans and 64% of French people. Their commitment to a circular future is reflected in actions such as increasing recycling over the last 12 months for 53% of them.
Winfried Muehling, Marketing and Communications Director at Pro Carton, comments: "Overall, France is experiencing positive nationwide growth in recycling confidence and participation. The results of our recent packaging perceptions survey accurately reflect the progressive steps consumers are taking to protect our planet and act against climate change."
Still hesitating between recyclable and non-recyclable
Even though recycling is now a well-established habit in France, almost 65% of people say they're not sure what's recyclable or not. "The packaging sector must continue to bridge the knowledge gap to maintain French consumers' positive recycling momentum." comments Winfried Muehling.
It's worth noting that even though 50% of French consumers feel that retailers and brands don't offer enough sustainable packaging, these same consumers are hardly inclined to bear a price increase of more than 4.9% to get environmentally-friendly packaging.
