Explore our selection of reports on the green economy
Paper packaging in Europe
Industries are committed to reducing the environmental impact of their activities and are looking to make much greater use of paper and cardboard, which are the most recycled packaging materials in Europe. Paper packaging is lightweight, mostly renewable, and produces fewer CO2 emissions than plastic. The importance of packaging in creating a positive customer experience cannot be overstated, and an increasing number of shoppers across Europe prefer to buy products with eco-friendly packaging.
The consumer goods sector accounts for a significant share of global packaging demand. Online retailers have been working on sustainability for several years now, and rising eCommerce sales are driving demand for paper packaging. In the European Union, both revenues and consumption of paper packaging from online retail activity are projected to increase. Elsewhere, companies in the food retail industry continue to widen their range of paper and paperboard packaging to meet the needs of the modern eco-conscious consumer.
Green tourism
Conscientious travelers are looking for more sustainable and environmentally friendly vacations. Popular ecotourism trips include visits to national parks and activities related to the conservation and preservation of wildlife. Many hotels now promote sustainable practices, such as recycling programs, and encourage guests to conserve water and reduce waste. Despite concerns about rising CO2 emissions, around 70 percent of Americans travel by plane when taking a vacation, but passengers expect airlines to be more responsible in the future.
Green bonds market in Europe
Green bonds have sparked significant investor interest in Europe, particularly in the markets of France, Germany, and the Netherlands. Investors issue green bonds to help fund climate-related projects and support environmental sustainability. In 2019, around one-third of green bond proceeds worldwide were used to finance new developments in the energy sector. Banks continue to contribute to the growth in green bond issuance, and HSBC and Barclays are among the leading underwriters.
Green maritime shipping worldwide
The global shipping industry is looking at how it can protect the environment. One of the main targets is to cut gas emissions: carbon dioxide emissions from shipping amounted to around 930 million metric tons in 2015. Tighter regulations, such as the sulfur cap introduced in 2020, show that the commitment to sustainability is genuine. However, environmental organizations are putting pressure on the maritime transport sector to find new propulsion technologies and alternative fuels.
Green eCommerce in France
Online retailers in France are increasingly aware of their environmental footprint, and the concept of sustainability in eCommerce continues to grow. Consumers value local production and show concern for animal welfare, and online shops are actively responding by selling a range of eco-friendly and fair-trade products. The market for buying and selling second-hand items has grown in recent years thanks to dedicated websites and apps, and delivery services now offer carbon-neutral shipping and packaging made from recycled materials.
