A STUDY ON CONSUMERS KNOWLEDGE, PRACTICES AND PERCEPTION TOWARDS ECO-FRIENDLY PRODUCTS AND PACKAGING

Abstract

Looking back a few years in Mangalore, India, the growth rate of the usage of eco-friendly products has been steadily increasing despite the availability of products which are not environment friendly. This development is mostly due to increase in knowledge among the public regarding the benefits obtained by using eco-friendly products and increased awareness regarding the products having venomous effects. Previous research has primarily relied on obtaining public opinions regarding the use of eco-friendly products but, did not specify the reasons for their liking or disliking towards eco-friendly products. These reasons should be taken into consideration as they play a vital role in spreading awareness regarding eco-friendly products and understanding consumer behaviour. In this study, we have used the data obtained from the residents living in Mangalore to identify the correlation between factors i.e., gender, age, income, qualification and consumers preference towards eco-friendly products and packaging. Our findings reveal that, sustainable growth in eco-friendly products is possible with increased knowledge and awareness about environmental protection. This study provides insight on how customers see environmentally friendly items and their packaging and thereby, suggests certain practices which can be undertaken by the residents of Mangalore to facilitate environmental growth. This paper is in a novel approach to understand the issues, challenges and prospects of eco-friendly products in the city of Mangalore.