Two Sides publishes key results of global survey on the Attractiveness and Sustainability of Paper and Print

The recent issue of Paper360 (May/June) features consumer survey results on global attitudes towards paper and print, as well as toward 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 analysed (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 which have shown that our brains have a much more emotional and meaningful connection when we read on paper versus screens.

Here are a few highlights mentioned in the article:

• 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 is 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 save 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 see the full article or the full May/June issue of Paper360.