Analyzing Consumer Preferences for Green Products and Environmental Impact

Abstract

The main purpose of this article is to identify current trends in consumer behavior toward "green" products, particularly within developed countries. The article presents an analysis of consumer behavior trends in the green market, focusing on how consumers interact with environmental goods and services. The findings reveal that while ecological criteria have been influential in the past, the trend of making purchase decisions based on these criteria appears to be diminishing. Price remains the dominant factor that consumers consider when making purchasing decisions. One significant observation is that the motivation for purchasing eco-friendly products is often driven by the potential savings associated with using energy-efficient appliances. This practical benefit continues to play a crucial role in encouraging consumers to opt for environmentally friendly products. Additionally, the purchase of organic food is largely motivated by perceived health benefits, which consistently emerged as the most important criterion across multiple rounds of the survey. The analysis also identifies a positive trend in post-consumer waste management practices, indicating a growing awareness and effort among consumers to responsibly manage their waste. However, there has been a notable decline in the number of people repairing broken electronic equipment and appliances, which contributes to the increasing quantity of electronic waste. This decline suggests a shift in consumer behavior that may undermine efforts to reduce waste through repair and reuse. Overall, the article highlights the complex factors influencing consumer behavior in the green market, emphasizing the need for ongoing education and policy interventions to sustain and enhance environmentally responsible purchasing habits. Understanding these trends is crucial for businesses and policymakers aiming to promote sustainable consumption practices and reduce the environmental impact of consumer behavior.