Americans are increasingly transitioning away from single-use plastics in favor of sustainable paper food packaging, according to new data released by Asia Pulp and Paper (APP) from the 2018 Paper & Packaging Consumer Trends Report.
The report found that nearly two thirds (64 percent) of Americans say they prefer paper food packaging over plastic or Styrofoam. Furthermore, more than half (51 percent) agree that paper food packaging is as high quality as the latter materials.
“Americans’ preference for paper continues to grow at a time when improving environmental health is top of mind for consumers,” said Ian Lifshitz, vice president of sustainability and stakeholder relations, APP. “Consumers are receptive to brands that are favoring recyclable, compostable or reusable paper materials in place of single-use plastics which can be harmful to natural ecosystems.”
Additional findings from the survey include:
— More than half (56 percent) of consumers are concerned about the effect of single-use plastics on the environment;
— Nearly half (48 percent) say they try to reduce their use of plastic items such as straws, cups and bags;
— Consumers are less likely to reuse plastic food packaging containers (47 percent) than cardboard delivery boxes (55 percent) and plastic shopping bags (77 percent).
About Asia Pulp & Paper (APP)
Asia Pulp & Paper (APP) is a trade name for a group of pulp and paper manufacturing companies in Indonesia and China. APP is responsible for delivering quality products to meet the growing global demand for tissue, packaging and paper, with an annual combined pulp, paper, packaging product and converting capacity of over 19 million tons per annum.
