New research looking at the monetary spending on single-use plastic products, has found that Brits’ takeaway habits costs the UK population £65 billion a year.
Habitual users spend £5080.20 on single-use plastic on-the-go food and drink products every year – if they switched to reusable alternatives, they could save up to £2397.80 a year.
The survey found 87% of respondents would consider swapping their single-use products for reusable alternatives if it would save them money, as a staggering 53% admit they are not actually likely to change their single-use plastic habits due to environmental factors. Saving money is clearly a key motivator for the public to switch to more environmentally conscious behaviour.
Not every Brit is regularly buying single-use food and drink on-the-go, it is actually a few repeat buyers who are causing the most damage. Over half of Brits never buy takeaway drinks in a disposable cup, 42% never buy single-use plastic bottled water and 43% don’t eat takeaway food. It is the habitual users* who regularly purchase convenience single-use plastic items who are in fact, seeing the biggest impact on their wallets.
A simple switch to reusable products, such as reusable water bottles, jugs at home, coffee cups and food containers would help make significant financial savings.
Sarah Taylor, Managing Director of BRITA UK, said: “Despite the increased media attention and pressure, people are still using far too many single-use plastic products. If the environment is not a motivator, maybe the potential savings will prompt Brits to change their habits.
“Interestingly, the research shows that 61% of bottled water is bought to drink at home, which could be because it simply tastes better. A simple switch in this case would be to buy a water filter jug, which would give them access to great tasting water at all times, as well as helping them save money and the environment.
“With our research, we wanted to shine a light on the harmful effect of takeaway purchases on the environment, and showcase the financial benefits of small, more sustainable swaps. We want to encourage the nation to #SwapForGood and choose reusable alternatives and products that last, saving the environment and pockets at the same time.”
