PARIS: A recent study has found that 71 percent of French consumers consider sustainability a necessity.
‘The French and the sustainable consumption’ report was released by consulting firm Ethicity in conjunction with the French Environment and Energy Management Agency (ADEME).
The report found that 51 percent of French consumers favoured more sustainable products, with 80 percent of respondents citing cost savings as a primary driver in reducing or controlling their energy consumption.
Another finding of the study was the increased demand from French consumers for clearer product information, while at the same time distrusting marketing messages.
“The French are quite distrustful regarding the messages from the brands, and expect to have access to clear and reliable information that enable them to make informed choices in their purchases,” the report said.
“Fifty-six percent of respondents said that it was difficult to understand the information on sustainable products while 62 percent felt that the sustainable products were not visible enough.”
Of the consumers surveyed for the report, 60 percent said they would buy more sustainable products if they had concrete proof of improved quality.
“The consumption of local products has become one of the preferred methods of action in favour of sustainability. Twenty-four percent of the respondents favour local products in their purchases,” the report said.
Source: French Environment and Energy Management Agency, Ethicity
