The recent issue of Paper360 (May/June) features the results of a consumer survey on global attitudes towards paper and print, as well as towards corporate environmental claims promoting digital over paper-based communications. The article concludes that there is a clear preference for print on paper across all countries and regions analyzed – Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, United Kingdom, United States – likely indicating a more fundamental and human way that people react to the physicality of print on paper. Many prefer paper-based communications to digital options for a variety of reasons, including ease of reading, tactile experience, and a lack of Internet access. These findings may also be partially explained by neuroscientific studies that have shown that our brain has a much more emotional and meaningful connection when we read on paper versus computer screens. Here are some of the survey highlights:
- 88-91% of respondents agreed that, when responsibly produced, used and recycled, print and paper can be a sustainable way to communicate.
- 85-89% agreed that, when forests are responsibly managed, it’s environmentally acceptable to use trees to produce products such as wood for construction and paper for printing.
- 80-85% receiving environmental claims such as “go green – go paperless” believe companies are merely seeking to reduce costs.
- 62-79% want the option to continue receiving printed information because it provides a more permanent record.
- 72-77% would be unhappy if they were asked to pay a premium for paper bills and statements.
For much more, please check out the May/June issue of Paper360.