‘The general public is demanding businesses do more to help them be eco-friendly’

Corporations can help. It’s about reducing waste, reducing carbon footprint and committing to ethical work practices, says Karen O’Regan, MD and head of strategy at Accenture in Ireland

One in eight Irish consumers is choosing to eat more locally sourced products to help the environment, according to an Accenture report. Photograph: Getty Images

Irish consumers are dealing with a lot at the moment. From increased energy prices and worries about the upcoming winter, to rising inflation, and talk of another recession, there’s a lot to consider. Yet, despite all of these concerns, climate change, its impact on the environment and the world, and how individuals can make positive changes — that really make a difference — remains top of mind for Irish consumers. 

According to Accenture’s new report The Sustainable Consumer: Bridging the Gap Between Aspiration and Action, 80 per cent of people want to live more sustainably. But while the intent is there, living sustainably isn’t easy, with 75 per cent saying that’s hard to do – and are calling on businesses to do more to help.