Retailers Urged to Reduce Packaging Amid Surge in Online Shopping

Consumer demand for sustainable products is on the rise, but retailers still need to step up their efforts to achieve the carbon neutrality goal by 2050, according to a recent study by the Consumer Council. The council found that the number of people engaging in online shopping has more than doubled over the past decade, leading to a significant increase in packaging waste. The study suggests that retailers should reduce unnecessary packaging to lower costs and improve their sustainability credentials, and that both the government and retailers must play a role in shaping consumer behavior.

According to a recent study by the Consumer Council, public awareness of and engagement in sustainable consumption have improved, but a surge in online shopping is posing a challenge in the form of increased packaging waste and disposable items. Retailers are being urged to reduce unnecessary packaging to lower costs and demonstrate their commitment to sustainability.

Waste Issue

The study shows that online shopping has more than doubled over the past decade, leading to a significant increase in packaging waste. Reducing packaging materials not only lowers costs and improves sustainability credentials but also aligns with consumer demand for eco-friendly products.

Government and Retail Sector Roles

Besides retailers making changes, the government also needs to set up more smart recycling stations to encourage white-collar workers to recycle. Both the government and retailers must play a role in shaping consumer behavior.
Incentives such as discounts and reward points for using reusable containers should be offered by retailers. Additionally, retailers can consider providing discounts for refill packs, which offer a cost-effective option for consumers.