2Sustain

A new Eurobarometer survey finds that four out of five Europeans consider the environmental impact of the products they buy.

83% of EU citizens polled said the impact of a product on the environment plays an important aspect in their purchasing decisions. The percentage was even higher among Greeks (92%); it was lowest among Czechs (62%).

In fact, most of those participating in the survey are hoping that new labeling will make their eco-purchasing decisions even easier in the future. 72%  thought that a label indicating a product’s carbon footprint should be mandatory. However, attitudes on the subject varied widely between Member States, with the Czechs the least in favor (47%) and Greeks, once again, voicing overwhelmingly support (90% ).

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This month’s issue of Packaging World Magazine includes an excellent interview with Glenn Ventrell, director of packaging innovation and development for the Sara Lee Corporation.

Sara Lee, a global manufacturer and marketer of food, beverage, household, and body care products, generates more than $13 billion in annual net sales across 200 countries. The company has a longstanding commitment to sustainability, a dedication which according to Sara Lee’s website includes:

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A week ago, Nike announced that it will not source leather from cattle raised in the Amazon rainforest. The company is also now requiring suppliers to create a leather tracking system for the purpose of improving supply chain transparency and traceability.

Today, Treehugger.com is reporting that Timberland will be expanding its CSR strategy to include a similar pledge, one that commits to a moratorium on obtaining leather from newly deforested areas in the Amazon.

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Ever heard of a reverse boycott?

It’s a concept that’s gathering steam thanks to a growing number of activist consumers who call themselves a “Carrotmob.”

The theory is rather straightforward: instead of using a “stick” and boycotting businesses that are not eco-friendly, Carrotmobs organize and spend their consumer dollars (the “carrots”) at businesses that agree to use a portion of the money to become more sustainable.

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A new study from Retail Systems Research (RSR) and the Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) found that top retailers have integrated eco-friendly practices into their business operations, and that they remain committed to these sustainable practices despite the downturn in the economy. According to the report, “green” is rapidly creating a strategic advantage throughout the retail sector and has reached enterprise status among industry leaders.

The 28-page benchmark report, titled “Real-World Green: The Role of Environmental Savings in Retail,” offers insights about how top-performing retailers (“winners”) differ from industry laggards in terms of both green motivations and execution.

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