Helping Consumers Make Better Purchase Decisions
This summary report, developed by GlobeScan and the Forest Stewardship Council following a London Climate Action Week event, explores how organizations can better support sustainable purchasing behaviors.
Reflections from GlobeScan and the Forest Stewardship Council’s London Climate Action Week event
At London Climate Action Week, GlobeScan and the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) brought together sustainability, consumer research, retail, and communications professionals to explore how organizations can help consumers make better purchasing decisions for people and planet.
Drawing on GlobeScan’s latest consumer insights and discussions with experts from FSC, the Marine Stewardship Council, Amazon, Suzano, and others, the report identifies practical ways to reduce barriers, build trust, make sustainability more visible, and help consumers act on their concerns.
Key Insights:
- Concern does not automatically translate into action: Many consumers want to make more sustainable choices, but competing priorities such as price, convenience, and habit often get in the way.
- Clear communication helps sustainability cut through: Simple, accessible information is more effective than complex claims and technical language.
- Affordability and convenience are critical: Consumers are more likely to choose sustainable options when they are easy to find, understand, and afford.
- Trust matters: Independent certification and credible labels can help consumers navigate complex choices, provided they understand what those labels mean.
- Solutions must go beyond communications: Pricing, product design, standards, retail experiences, and digital tools all play a role in helping consumers make better choices.
