Brits want brands to do more to reduce waste and save the planet

MOST Brits believe brands can do more to reduce waste and help save the planet.

More than two thirds want brands to do more and 59% are “disappointed” in big names that still haven’t got their sustainability initiatives right.

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Almost half feel brands are not transparent enough with their wider sustainability goals, according to a study of 2,000 people.

Meanwhile a third of adults don’t think brands are doing enough in general when it comes to helping the environment.

The research was commissioned by water brand Evian as it achieved B Corp status.

Being a B Corp means a company is legally required to consider the impact of its decisions on workers, customers, suppliers, community and environment.

Shweta Harit from Evian Global, said: “If our findings are anything to go by, it’s clear that, quite rightly, there is strong appetite among consumers for greater transparency in the way brands look to create positive impact across people and planet.

“Today’s B Corp announcement and our commitment to brand transparency are huge milestones for us in our sustainability journey and broader commitment to doing business the right way.”

The study also found when it comes to individual’s own shopping habits, 37% feel they are doing enough for the environment.

But almost two thirds (64%) admit they could do more to become a better ‘sustainable shopper’.

Just over half said they would be more likely to change their own environmental habits if brands did more to change theirs.

The top actions Brits would like to see companies do more of include producing biodegradable packaging (55%), easily recycled products (64%) and reduction of greenhouse gases in production (36%).

The use of sustainable materials in products (47%), promoting environmentally friendly ways of working (36%), and signing up to sustainability initiatives (31%) were also on the list.

The study also found that just over half of shoppers said companies are not doing enough to help them become better shoppers – 73%t feel they are only able to buy what is available and it’s up to brands to offer more sustainable choices.

Katie Hill, chief executive of at B Lab Europe, said: “We are delighted to welcome Evian to the B Corp community.

“This global movement of nearly 4000 companies from over 70 countries and 150 sectors is helping to change the way business operates, and in so doing, they redefine the qualities of success in business.

“Evian’s commitment to circularity in its operations, and the transparency with which it will share this progress towards this goal, will inspire other companies to follow suit.  

“Now more than ever, it is crucial for both companies and individuals to operate for the benefit of all and use business as a force for good.”

Shoppers can now return items like crisp packets, bread bags and cling film which usually end up in landfill to Tesco stores to be recycled.

At Boots, you can turn old make up into money by taking back empty products and getting Advantage Card points in return.

There are several shops where you can get money off for recycling old clothes and shoes, including Adidas, BooHoo, Pretty Little Thing, H&M and M&S.