Capterra study shows that Quebecers prefer to buy products from the circular economy
by CM Staff
83% of Quebec-based respondents prefer to buy products from companies with circular economy practices.
Bar graph representing the sustainable habits of Quebec consumers based on frequency.
TORONTO — Capterra has just released the second part of its survey regarding the circular economy, for which more than 1,000 Canadian consumers were surveyed. The first half of this report analysed consumer participation in the circular economy in Quebec. For this second part, Capterra Canada focuses on beliefs and habits regarding sustainable consumption. Both reports are written in French and focus primarily on Quebec respondents, while comparing the data to national results.
82% of Quebec consumers surveyed acknowledge that their behaviour and choices can have a positive impact on the environment. 83% of Quebec-based respondents prefer to buy products from companies with circular economy practices. The most common habits for Quebecers are related to recycling: 78% use reusable bags and 73% sort their waste. Still, there are many actions that can be taken in terms of sustainability.
Sustainable shopping habits in Canada
Recycling of electronics as well as sustainable shopping (buying in bulk, local or second-hand products) are other habits that Quebecers surveyed do at least occasionally (see chart attached). Buy-back programs seem to be more popular in Quebec than nationally: 11% of “usual” use versus 8%. However, the interest remains: the proportion of Canadians who actively want to extend the life cycle of their products rises to 88%, and to 81% for Quebec respondents.
Tessa Anaya, content analyst for the study, says, “With buy-back programs, as with many other sustainable practices, the responsibility cannot fall entirely on the consumer. Logically, consumers cannot participate in programs that do not exist or of which they are unaware. While the circular economy is an everyday practice for many Canadians, greater awareness and engagement is needed to drive sustainability in Canada.”
Fighting food waste
While 32% of Quebecers survey-takers are aware of apps to fight food waste (TooGoodToGo, FlashFood), only 7% are currently using them. 45% of respondents in Quebec are unaware of their existence, but are interested in the concept. In addition, 29% of Quebec consumers would definitely spend money in a restaurant or food store that takes anti-waste measures.
