The demand for sustainable packaging is growing rapidly. According to a recent survey by Pro Carton, the European association of cardboard and folding carton manufacturers, more and more consumers are turning to cardboard. The study clearly shows that it is consumers' first choice as an environmentally friendly, recyclable and renewable packaging material. Plastic, on the other hand, is falling in popularity.

Survey of 5,000 European consumers

The results of the survey of more than 5,000 respondents in figures: 89 per cent of consumers surveyed prefer cardboard packaging to plastic – an increase compared to the previous year (87 per cent). Consumers were actively looking for packaging that they believe is both as environmentally friendly and sustainable as possible.

The study also found that more and more consumers are increasing their individual recycling habits. 62 per cent of people stated that they had particularly intensified their efforts in this regard in the past year. For many, choosing cardboard is an important step towards a more sustainable lifestyle. According to the survey, consumers have recognised that board packaging makes a significant contribution to environmental protection and can therefore actively help to combat climate change.

Cardboard is the environmentally friendly packaging trend of the future

The results of the Pro Carton survey show that the future of the packaging industry is sustainable. Consumers are increasingly favouring environmentally friendly, recyclable and renewable materials. Companies that invest in sustainable packaging solutions are optimally prepared for the future.

The survey

More than 5,000 consumers from Germany, France, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom were surveyed for the ‘2025 European Consumer Packaging Perceptions Survey’ by Pro Carton, the European Association of Cartonboard and Folding Carton Manufacturers. The survey focused on the topics of sustainability, packaging and overcoming environmental challenges. The aim of Pro Carton is to promote cartonboard and folding cartons as an economically and ecologically balanced packaging medium.

Further information: www.procarton.com

And that's what German consumers think.