Global study shows consumers trying to reduce plastic usage

An ongoing monthly U.S. poll of consumers indicates many are trying to reduce their consumption of plastics, mostly by using their own bags when shopping and limiting single-use plastic bottle purchases.

The study, by AMC Global, showed that respondents say they are looking for alternatives to plastics that are recyclable, reasonably priced and reusable, according to a news release.

According to the release, key findings for the week of March 22: 

Seventy-three percent of Americans are personally trying to reduce the purchase and use of products sold in plastic packaging.

For alternatives to plastic packaging, consumers report that they are very/extremely likely to purchase plastic bottles made from recycled plastic (75%); paper packaging with no plastic (73%); and paper boxes containing detergent cleaning pods for laundry or dishwasher (68%).

The most important characteristics of plastic packaging alternatives reported are recyclability (70%), reasonable price (55%), and reusability (53%).

Most respondents believe the brand (56%) and the packaging companies (45%) should pay the added costs of plastic packaging alternatives.

A complete graphic representation of packaging alternatives and opinions about plastics can be found here. 

The study is an ongoing poll of U.S. consumers; the new findings will be released April 28, according to the release.