While the main reasons for not adopting a more sustainable lifestyle remain the same as in 2022, a higher proportion of consumers mentioned them. These relate to cost (62%), a lack of interest in sustainability (58%), and not having enough information (50%). Consumers also believe that adopting a more sustainable lifestyle makes no difference, or that it is too difficult or not available to them.
These findings point to the importance of offering better affordability and availability of sustainable options and giving consumers greater access to information about sustainability.
Which, if any, of the following describe why you haven't done this?
(% who selected at least once 'I have not done the following action' in the past 12 months in an effort to adopt a more sustainable lifestyle)
In addition, most consumers would welcome better schemes to remove plastic and packaging (53%) and clearer guidance on disposal and recycling (46%). A third of consumers also expect more government intervention to make low-emission modes of transport more affordable, and to provide better access to public electric vehicle charging points. The same proportion wants more regulations requiring companies to improve options for consumers.
Which, if any, of the following do you think would help you to adopt a more sustainable lifestyle?
The key ‘trust builders’ that businesses should focus on are independent accreditation, transparency across their supply chains, and reducing carbon emissions rather than on carbon offsetting:
Which, if any, of the following are more likely to influence how much you trust brands and the commitment of businesses to climate change and sustainability?
Looking back at 2023, the majority of retailers across the globe will reflect on the headwinds they faced with soaring inflation rates, subdued consumer confidence and spending. However, for some, the tailwinds caused by advances in the exponential growth of technology far outweigh any of the challenges they have faced.
While winning approaches to 2024 may revolve around fundamentals like price, volume and mix, consumer products leaders will also likely confront newer challenges like generative AI, weight-loss drugs or emerging regulations. Learn more in our 2024 consumer products industry outlook.