Green Consumerism, Recognition and Consideration of Eco Labels at Textile Purchase

Abstract

The protection of environment and the sustainability of consumer behaviour are two most important reasons justifying the introduction of eco-labelling schemes. Eco labelling aims to promote products with reduced environmental impacts throughout their life cycle and functions as a way of encouraging consumers to alter their consumption patterns, and to make a wiser use of resources and energy in the drive for sustainable development. Since their emergence in the 1970s, eco labels have expanded rapidly in number, diversity and popularity. The number of eco labels having increased, the debate is now focused on their effectiveness and legitimacy as environmental policy instruments. Numerous surveys show that consumers are concerned about the environment; however, their concern does not always lead to actions, e.g. purchase of environmentally responsible products. The reason for the latter can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, consumers are confused by a large number of different schemes for labelling and may not fully understand the implications of complex environmental information; secondly, some products have been labelled in a deceptive way; and thirdly, consumers are unable to distinguish green products from conventional product, since they may not be familiar with the environmental impacts of products. This paper is devoted to revising relevant literature on the issue.