TIPA, a provider of compostable packaging solutions for food and fashion, has released the findings of a recent survey that sheds light on consumer perceptions regarding alternative packaging.
The survey, which involved 1,500 American consumers across three locations – California, New York and Washington – highlighted the growing concern about plastic waste generated from packaging, with a significant difference in consumer attitudes between the West Coast and the East Coast.
According to the survey, a staggering 84% of Americans expressed concern about the amount of plastic waste generated from packaging. The data indicates that consumer concern is particularly prominent on the West Coast compared to the East Coast.
Sustainability-conscious consumers who are aware of compostable packaging showed a clear preference for it as an alternative to conventional or recyclable plastic packaging.
The survey revealed that 54% of consumers in California, 57% in New York and 64% in Washington would choose compostable packaging over traditional plastic.
Lack of awareness about compostable packaging
Despite the advantages of compostable packaging, the survey revealed that there are still significant gaps in consumer awareness of this eco-friendly alternative.
Across all states surveyed, respondents were more familiar with recycled packaging as an alternative to conventional plastic, with compostables ranking second, followed by reusable packaging.
More than half of all American respondents view eco-friendly alternatives to traditional plastic packaging as important in their daily lives. The numbers were particularly high in California (60%), Washington (56%) and New York (55%).
The majority of those polled in California (75%), New York (71%) and Washington (72%) expressed their willingness to pay 5% more for products that use sustainable packaging instead of traditional plastic packaging.
Purchasing habits and product types
The survey also delved into consumer purchasing habits across various product types. Californians were found to have the highest rate of purchasing products packaged in plastic alternatives, particularly among those aged 18-24.
Fresh produce emerged as the top product category, with the highest percentage of consumers actively choosing plastic alternatives, followed by groceries, health & beauty products, frozen produce and e-commerce goods.
Daphna Nissenbaum, the CEO and Co-founder of TIPA, emphasised the urgency of addressing the plastic pollution crisis and noted that consumer concern is growing, leading to a demand for sustainable alternatives.
Nissenbaum believes that increased awareness about compostable packaging will drive further adoption, providing a sustainable substitute for conventional plastics that are difficult to recycle and contribute to environmental pollution.
In conclusion, the survey conducted by TIPA illustrates the rising concern among Americans about plastic waste from packaging.
It also highlights the need for greater consumer awareness about compostable packaging as a viable alternative to traditional plastic and the willingness of consumers to support sustainable solutions in their purchasing decisions.
