Ede, 3 September 2024 – Dutch consumers are spending more money online and placing greater importance on sustainability. However, there is still work to be done for both consumers and online retailers. This is evident from the latest figures from the Thuiswinkel Sustainability Monitor, released today on Sustainable Tuesday.
The research, conducted among 1,334 consumers by Thuiswinkel.org and supported by DS Smith Packaging and Amazon, shows that consumers are not adequately informed about the sustainability of online shopping. Additionally, the impact of consumer behaviour is often underestimated.
Online shopping often more sustainable than in-store shopping
Only 17% of consumers believe that online shops are more sustainable than physical stores. Marlene ten Ham, General Director at Thuiswinkel.org, commented: “Online shopping can be more sustainable, partly due to the efficiency of parcel delivery and the high energy consumption of physical stores. When consumers individually drive to shops, it results in a higher environmental impact than when a delivery van drops off multiple orders at once. Of course, that doesn’t mean we’re there yet: as a sector, we continue to work on further improving the sustainability of the supply chain.”
Collaboration between online retailers and consumers is crucial for sustainability
Consumers see packaging and delivery as key factors in making e-commerce more sustainable. However, the greatest environmental impact comes from choosing the most sustainable products, which starts with the offerings of online shops. Consumers often struggle to assess which choices are more sustainable, so it’s important for online retailers to communicate this clearly.
Consumers also have a role to play in making conscious purchases and paying attention to size and product information before making a decision. If a return is necessary, it’s important to handle it correctly so the item can be resold.
Consumers can influence more sustainable delivery
The monitor reveals that 40% of consumers think that a pick-up point is always more sustainable than home delivery, but this isn’t always true. Marlene ten Ham says: “A pick-up point is only more sustainable if the consumer goes there on foot or by bike (3). If that’s not possible and you have to drive, it’s better to choose home delivery. Also, make sure you’re home when the package is delivered; otherwise, the environmental benefit is lost. As a sector, we have a responsibility to inform consumers about this and make it as clear as possible.”
Eight out of ten consumers prefer cardboard packaging over plastic, mainly for environmental reasons. Cardboard is made from sustainable materials and provides good protection. However, choosing plastic packaging over a cardboard box can have advantages, such as fitting more parcels into one delivery van, reducing the number of vans needed. Ultimately, it’s not about cardboard versus plastic but about the right packaging for the right product.
Education is needed, and online retailers must lead the way
The research shows that many consumers already consider sustainability when shopping online, but there is still a lot of confusion. Consumers are willing, but they need help. For online retailers, it is therefore important to continue communicating about sustainability. This includes topics such as delivery, packaging, returns, and product offerings, as well as having a clear sustainability strategy. Marlene ten Ham sees many opportunities for the sector: “As an industry organisation, we provide the e-commerce sector with the right tools to improve sustainability communication towards consumers even further. We have also developed Thuiswinkel.org’s sustainability certification for our members. Organisations interested in finding out how far they are in terms of sustainability can easily start with the quick scan.”
Download the Thuiswinkel Sustainability Monitor here
Thuiswinkel.org, the trade association for online retailers
Thuiswinkel.org’s mission is to support the e-commerce sector in its transition towards a safer, more responsible, and sustainable industry, ensuring that online shopping remains accessible for future generations of consumers.
A future-proof Dutch e-commerce sector is a goal we can only achieve by connecting with others and collectively striving to prepare the industry for current and future generations of consumers. Thuiswinkel.org inspires, facilitates, and mobilises its members, the supply chain, and consumers with knowledge, insights, and tools. This includes the Thuiswinkel Trustmark, our legal helpdesk, the e-learning platform e-Academy, our research, the ShoppingTomorrow innovation program, and our advocacy efforts. Through these initiatives, we make the online market in the Netherlands smarter every day. Together, we work towards a safer, more sustainable, and more innovative future.
Disclaimer
This press release is being shared as received, but translated to English. The content, including statements and data, has been provided in Dutch by Thuiswinkel.org and does not necessarily reflect the views or editorial stance the editor. Please direct any queries or requests for further information to the original issuer, Thuiswinkel.org.
