In a national survey conducted for the Carton Council of North America, Denton, Texas, by Research+Data Insights, 91% of consumers said they expect food and beverage brands to actively help increase the recycling of their packages. The survey, which included nearly 2,500 U.S. adults, showed a 5% increase when compared to 2013 research that asked the same question.

Additionally, the research revealed environmental issues are becoming more top-of-mind to consumers when making purchasing decisions. Seventy-seven percent report considering the effect of their purchase on the environment.

Packaging continues to play a critical role in driving carton recycling perception. Sixty-seven percent of consumers report they would assume a package is not recyclable if it did not have a recycling symbol or language on it. The survey also reveals that a majority of consumers (57%) look to a product’s packaging first for recycling information, before turning to other sources. The second most popular place is the local community website (34%), followed by the product’s website at 28%.

“The survey results reiterate what we have long believed, that we must work together – the packaging manufacturers, brands and everyone in between – to ensure we are talking to consumers in a clear way about the recyclability of our products,” said Jason Pelz, vice president of recycling projects for the Carton Council of North America, and vice president, environment, Tetra Pak Americas.

He added, “This reinforces the importance of having the recycling logo on all packaging, but especially food and beverage cartons.”

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