SCHAUMBURG, Ill. — The majority of Americans would give up all forms of packaging provided for convenience purposes if it would benefit the environment, according to new research from The Nielsen Co. here. More than half of those surveyed (53%) said they’d give up packaging designed for easy transport, 55% would do without packaging that can be used for cooking or doubling as a re-sealable container and 58% would sacrifice packaging designed for easy stacking/storing at home. U.S. consumers’ are less willing to give up packaging designed for other purposes, including those that keep products clean and untouched by other shoppers (26%); packaging designed to keep products in good condition (31%); packaging that preserves products to make them last longer and stay fresher (31%); and packaging information, including food labeling, cooking and usage instructions (33%). One in 10 Americans are not willing to give up any aspect of packaging for the benefit of the environment. “As global concerns and awareness for the environment continue to grow, consumers worldwide are demanding more action from retailers and consumer packaged goods manufacturers to protect the environment,” said Shuchi Sethi, vice president of Nielsen Customized Research, in a statement. “While eco-friendly packaging might not be the top priority for shoppers today, it’s certainly a growing priority the food industry cannot ignore.”

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