Americans are fair-weather eco activists

The environment is a top concern for consumers. Except when the economy is in the doldrums. The recently released ImagePower Green Brands Survey shows that green concerns have taken a backseat to the economy for more than 75% of Americans.

“We have been tracking perceptions of green for over three years, and this year’s results are somewhat alarming in that they indicate consumers only prioritize the environment when all other concerns are equal,” said Russ Meyer, chief strategy officer of Landor Associates -- one of the consulting firms that presented the study. “With agricultural commodities running low and the rising cost of gas in the United States, Americans indicate they have more immediate concerns that the environment. With the United Kingdom also beginning to feel the economic crunch, we see some signs of the mentality there beginning to shift.”

One bit of good news: respondents said they’re still willing to pay more for green products. You can check out more findings from the survey here.

-- Sarah

Comments

[Kathy J, Washington Gardener]

I don't think we should be surprised - feed your hungry kids or buy organic cotton t-shirts - hmm, tough choice? But whatever folks can DO in their actions to conserve, re0use, repair and recycle is much more valuable in the end for the Green movement than whether they can afford to pay more for new organic, sustainable goods.