According to a survey commissioned by the European cardboard and paperboard manufacturers' association Pro Carton, European consumers continue to place climate change at the top of their list of concerns, ahead of the cost of living and international conflicts. Conducted by the Perspectus Global institute among 5,000 consumers, the study also shows a significant increase in commitment to sustainable development and recycling.
In the five countries surveyed âeuros Germany, France, Italy, Spain and the UK âeuros 68% of respondents cite climate change as their main source of concern, compared with 66% for the cost of living and 56% for war.
And 62% of Europeans now consider sustainable living to be more important than it was two years ago.
Priorities vary from country to country
In Italy (77%), Spain (72%) and France (70%), climate change tops the list of concerns, while in the UK, inflation takes first place (75%).
Germany, faced with strong migratory pressure linked to the war in Ukraine, puts conflicts at the top of its list of concerns (66%). Respondents over 60 are particularly sensitive to climate issues, with 71% identifying them as a priority.
In spite of this context, behaviour in favour of the environment seems to be holding steady, if not improving. Nearly half of those surveyed (49%) said they recycled more than in the previous year.
Strong confidence in corrugated board and folding cartons
The survey also reveals a high level of consumer confidence in their ability to identify recyclable packaging materials. A total of 82% said they were confident in this respect. Corrugated cardboard and folding cartons are highly rated, with an average European confidence of 90% and 87% respectively. In last place, at 8th, flexible plastic packaging appears the least recycled, with 54% confidence.
These figures reflect widespread recognition of the collection and recycling systems in place for these materials, and confirm their perception as reliable and ecologically viable packaging solutions.
Contrasting perceptions of corporate commitment
The survey also highlights a perception gap regarding the efforts of brands and distributors. While 58.2% of respondents believe that companies are making sufficient efforts in the area of sustainable packaging, 41.8% consider that these actions remain insufficient.
Responses varied widely from country to country: Italy was the most favorable (66% of respondents felt that companies were committed), followed by the UK (63%), Spain and Germany (56%). France is more reserved, with only 50% of respondents judging efforts to be sufficient.
For Winfried Muehling, Marketing and Communications Director at Pro Carton, these results show that "despite persistent problems due to global conflicts and the economy, it's clear that environmental issues remain largely top of mind for consumers".
