Impacted Consumer Attitudes About the Environment - How the COVID-19 Pandemic has
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How the COVID-19 Pandemic has Impacted Consumer Attitudes About the Environment
Contents
Introduction 4 Consumers are now placing 13
more importance on spending
Globally, 58% of consumers said 5 time with their loved ones, with
they are now more mindful of 34% mentioning this in their
their impact on the environment top three behaviour changes
since COVID-19 since COVID
On average, 85% said they’re 6 1 in 3 (31%) expecting the 14
willing to take personal action wellbeing of staff to be in the
to combat environmental and top three key focus areasfor
sustainability challenges companies moving forward
in 2021
A third (32%) of those who 16
More than half place more 7 have changed their opinion on
importance on reducing their environmental and sustainability
carbon footprint than they issues across the globe stated
had pre-pandemic that increased news coverage
had educated them on
Out of those of who stated 8 environmental issues
environmental and sustainability
issues were now more Globally, 30% of consumers 17
important, 42% revealed admit seeing climate change
that seeing discarded PPE showcased across social media
was a reason for this change posts from influential people
in opinion
50% of those surveyed across 18
Consumers are now adopting 9 the globe said television was
new personal eco-friendly the key medium showcasing
behaviors such as recycling environmental topics
more (41%)
A quarter (25%) of 19
Consumers are now adopting 10 consumers want to educate
new personal eco-friendly themselves further on
behaviors such as being more environmental issues
aware of purchases (42%)
35% of consumers stated 21
Consumers have also placed 11 that the increase of single-
greater emphasis on building use plastics was a factor
habits that contribute to their in encouraging better
own overall health environmental decisions
Consumers are now placing 12 Of those that have changed 22
more importance on enjoying their opinion of the environment
life, with more than 1 in 3 and sustainability, 44% admit to
wanting to spend time enjoying having more time to think about
nature (37%) environmental impactContents
Nearly a quarter of the globe 24 Companies and brands are 34
surveyed want to adopt a more now expected to act with
environmentally friendly diet greater purpose
(24%)
37% of consumers expect 35
Exercising and enjoying 25 companies to focus on waste
wellbeing activities has become reduction i.e., food waste and
a key focus across the globe reducing water and energy
with 1 in 3 taking more active consumption) in their top three
steps to lead a healthier lifestyle issues to tackle
for the first time since the start
of the pandemic On average 31% across the 36
globe revealed that companies
The pandemic has undoubtedly 27 should be more conscious of
driven a more conscious their employees health and
consumer, with almost 3 in wellbeing when focused on the
5 (58%) globally now more top three issues
aware of their impact on the
environment compared Consumers now have 37
to pre-pandemic increased expectations of
companies to act with greater
Globally consumers feel it has 28 purpose and placing increased
become a lot more important value (35%) on brands that
to reduce their carbon footprint make ethical choices
with over half (54%) feeling it is
now more important to reduce 24% of consumers are likely 38
their impact on the environment to stop shopping from brands
with no sustainability plans
Enjoying life to the fullest is 30 for the future
one of the top three effects
of COVID-19, with more than
a third (35%) globally placing
more importance on
enjoying life
The pandemic has 31
fostered better local
community connections
34% of respondents who feel 32
environmental issues are more
important now compared to
before stated that the pandemic
has helped people to feel
more connected to their local
community and would therefore
like to shop locally more4
Introduction
While the trend toward more conscious consumption has
accelerated over the last decade, changes in global attitudes
and actions have increased more rapidly as a direct result of the
COVID-19 pandemic.
Mastercard has conducted global since COVID-19 (1), and 85% said
research among consumers in 24 they’re willing to take personal
countries to investigate changing action to combat environmental and
attitudes toward the environment, sustainability challenges in 2021 (2).
particularly since the start of the More than half (54%) place more
pandemic. The research looks at importance on reducing their carbon
actions people are willing to take to footprint than they had pre-pandemic
help preserve the environment, what is (3). This increase in awareness of
driving changes in their outlook, as well environmental challenges and climate
as their expectations about the role change is likely driven by consumers
brands should play in creating a more having more time to think about the
sustainable future. effect they have on the planet during
period of reduced travel during
The study revealed that almost three lockdown and a rise of sustainability-
in five (58%) are now more mindful focused social media content
of their impact on the environment and documentaries.
42%
of consumers who’ve become
more sustainably aware, seeing
discarded PPE was a reason for
this change in opinion.
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 25519 adults.
Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th January - 5th March 2021. The survey was carried out online.
The figures have been weighted and are representative of all country adults (aged 18+).5
Globally, 58% said they are now
more mindful of their impact on
the environment since COVID-19
Figure 1:
Australia 57%
Austria 55%
Belgium 44%
Brazil 85%
Canada 54%
Colombia 93%
France 47%
Germany 41%
Greece 70%
India 78%
Italy 56%
Japan 41%
Kenya 94%
Mexico 85%
Netherlands 41%
Poland 64%
Portugal 76%
Russia 51%
Spain 60%
Sweden 40%
Turkey 86%
UK 44%
UAE 83%
USA 40%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 25519 adults.
Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th January - 5th March 2021. The survey was carried out online.
The figures have been weighted and are representative of all country adults (aged 18+).6
On average, 85% said they’re
willing to take personal action
to combat environmental and
sustainability challenges in 2021
Figure 2:
Australia 84%
Austria 86%
Belgium 81%
Brazil 96%
Canada 84%
Colombia 98%
France 83%
Germany 73%
Greece 95%
India 95%
Italy 95%
Japan 77%
Kenya 98%
Mexico 95%
Netherlands 78%
Poland 92%
Portugal 95%
Russia 85%
Spain 90%
Sweden 76%
Turkey 93%
UK 76%
UAE 96%
USA 68%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 25519 adults.
Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th January - 5th March 2021. The survey was carried out online.
The figures have been weighted and are representative of all country adults (aged 18+).7
More than half place more
importance on reducing their
carbon footprint than they
had pre-pandemic
Figure 3:
Australia 53%
Austria 53%
Belgium 38%
Brazil 75%
Canada 49%
Colombia 83%
France 40%
Germany 38%
Greece 70%
India 78%
Italy 64%
Japan 37%
Kenya 84%
Mexico 72%
Netherlands 38%
Poland 54%
Portugal 75%
Russia 40%
Spain 56%
Sweden 37%
Turkey 74%
UK 43%
UAE 72%
USA 39%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 25519 adults.
Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th January - 5th March 2021. The survey was carried out online.
The figures have been weighted and are representative of all country adults (aged 18+).8
Out of those of who stated
environmental and sustainability issues
were now more important, 42% revealed
that seeing discarded PPE was a reason
for this change in opinion
Figure 4:
Australia 34%
Austria 37%
Belgium 34%
Brazil 40%
Canada 47%
Colombia 48%
France 24%
Germany 35%
Greece 50%
India 33%
Italy 46%
Japan 39%
Kenya 52%
Mexico 45%
Netherlands 38%
Poland 51%
Portugal 51%
Russia 61%
Spain 44%
Sweden 19%
Turkey 39%
UK 55%
UAE 39%
USA 36%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
With the rise in awareness of environmental challenges, consumers are now adopting
new personal eco-friendly behaviors which include recycling more (41%) (5) and being
more aware of purchases (42%) (6). Consumers have also placed greater emphasis
on building habits that contribute to their own overall health, with over a third (35%)
globally wanting to take part in activities that improve their wellbeing such as eating
more healthy and exercising (7).
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 25519 adults.
Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th January - 5th March 2021. The survey was carried out online.
The figures have been weighted and are representative of all country adults (aged 18+).9
Consumers are now adopting
new personal eco-friendly
behaviors such as recycling
more (41%)
Figure 5:
Australia 45%
Austria 33%
Belgium 36%
Brazil 55%
Canada 45%
Colombia 72%
France 39%
Germany 23%
Greece 58%
India 41%
Italy 52%
Japan 27%
Kenya 53%
Mexico 62%
Netherlands 30%
Poland 41%
Portugal 57%
Russia 34%
Spain 53%
Sweden 30%
Turkey 40%
UK 36%
UAE 38%
USA 29%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 25519 adults.
Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th January - 5th March 2021. The survey was carried out online.
The figures have been weighted and are representative of all country adults (aged 18+).10
Consumers are now adopting
new personal eco-friendly
behaviors such as being more
aware of purchases (42%)
Figure 6:
Australia 42%
Austria 48%
Belgium 39%
Brazil 58%
Canada 47%
Colombia 56%
France 38%
Germany 32%
Greece 59%
India 41%
Italy 45%
Japan 38%
Kenya 49%
Mexico 47%
Netherlands 33%
Poland 51%
Portugal 55%
Russia 42%
Spain 42%
Sweden 30%
Turkey 49%
UK 35%
UAE 45%
USA 32%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 25519 adults.
Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th January - 5th March 2021. The survey was carried out online.
The figures have been weighted and are representative of all country adults (aged 18+).11
Consumers have also placed
greater emphasis on building
habits that contribute to their
own overall health
With over a third (35%) globally wanting to take part in activities that improve
their wellbeing such as eating healthier and exercising, when asked to choose
their top three.
Figure 7:
Australia 30%
Austria 31%
Belgium 30%
Brazil 51%
Canada 33%
Colombia 51%
France 28%
Germany 28%
Greece 42%
India 38%
Italy 39%
Japan 40%
Kenya 57%
Mexico 55%
Netherlands 29%
Poland 37%
Portugal 37%
Russia 33%
Spain 39%
Sweden 25%
Turkey 41%
UK 28%
UAE 43%
USA 25%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
Alongside improving their health, three of the top effects that the pandemic has had on
theworld is consumers are now placing more importance on enjoying life. Separately, more
than 1 in 3 wanting to spend time enjoying nature (37%) (8)
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 25519 adults.
Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th January - 5th March 2021. The survey was carried out online.
The figures have been weighted and are representative of all country adults (aged 18+).12
Consumers are now placing more
importance on enjoying life, with
more than 1 in 3 wanting to
spend time enjoying nature (37%)
Figure 8:
Australia 34%
Austria 47%
Belgium 36%
Brazil 56%
Canada 41%
Colombia 50%
France 41%
Germany 32%
Greece 56%
India 28%
Italy 42%
Japan 14%
Kenya 36%
Mexico 37%
Netherlands 27%
Poland 40%
Portugal 56%
Russia 43%
Spain 38%
Sweden 34%
Turkey 39%
UK 34%
UAE 24%
USA 26%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 25519 adults.
Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th January - 5th March 2021. The survey was carried out online.
The figures have been weighted and are representative of all country adults (aged 18+).13
Consumers are now placing more
importance on spending time
with their loved ones with 34%
mentioning this in their top three
behaviour changes since COVID
Figure 9:
Australia 31%
Austria 35%
Belgium 35%
Brazil 47%
Canada 33%
Colombia 38%
France 34%
Germany 31%
Greece 48%
India 24%
Italy 28%
Japan 30%
Kenya 28%
Mexico 39%
Netherlands 28%
Poland 32%
Portugal 43%
Russia 47%
Spain 44%
Sweden 35%
Turkey 28%
UK 34%
UAE 30%
USA 30%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 25519 adults.
Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th January - 5th March 2021. The survey was carried out online.
The figures have been weighted and are representative of all country adults (aged 18+).14
1 in 3 (31%) expecting the
wellbeing of staff to be in the
top three key focus areas for
companies moving forward
Figure 10:
Australia 35%
Austria 26%
Belgium 31%
Brazil 33%
Canada 36%
Colombia 31%
France 33%
Germany 24%
Greece 28%
India 30%
Italy 31%
Japan 24%
Kenya 48%
Mexico 32%
Netherlands 25%
Poland 25%
Portugal 26%
Russia 26%
Spain 31%
Sweden 30%
Turkey 32%
UK 37%
UAE 41%
USA 33%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 25519 adults.
Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th January - 5th March 2021. The survey was carried out online.
The figures have been weighted and are representative of all country adults (aged 18+).15
Digital media appears
to have played a pivotal
role in educating
consumers about
climate change and
environmental issues
Kenya
Mexico
55%
44%
Columbia
60%
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 25519 adults.
Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th January - 5th March 2021. The survey was carried out online.
The figures have been weighted and are representative of all country adults (aged 18+).16
A third (32%) of those who have changed
their opinion on environmental and
sustainability issues across the globe
stated that increased news coverage had
educated them on environmental issues
This was particularly prevalent with the 55+ age group where over half (56%)
had seen these topics on TV compared to Gen Z at 43%.
Figure 11:
Australia 32%
Austria 21%
Belgium 22%
Brazil 34%
Canada 31%
Colombia 50%
France 19%
Germany 27%
Greece 31%
India 35%
Italy 28%
Japan 41%
Kenya 49%
Mexico 41%
Netherlands 19%
Poland 33%
Portugal 27%
Russia 27%
Spain 38%
Sweden 31%
Turkey 36%
UK 25%
UAE 34%
USA 35%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 25519 adults.
Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th January - 5th March 2021. The survey was carried out online.
The figures have been weighted and are representative of all country adults (aged 18+).17
Globally, 30% of consumers
admit seeing climate change
showcased across social media
posts from influential people
Figure 12:
Australia 36%
Austria 24%
Belgium 19%
Brazil 36%
Canada 31%
Colombia 53%
France 23%
Germany 14%
Greece 33%
India 51%
Italy 32%
Japan 15%
Kenya 63%
Mexico 44%
Netherlands 17%
Poland 17%
Portugal 37%
Russia 25%
Spain 35%
Sweden 21%
Turkey 33%
UK 24%
UAE 54%
USA 28%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
Social media has increased Gen Z’s awareness of environmental issues by 43%
compared to the 55+ age group at 21%. Notably in Kenya, social media has been a
hugely impactful channel, with over 3 in 5 (63%) seeing environmental issues showcased
as a topic, followed by United Arab Emirates (54%) and Colombia (53%) who also saw
increased coverage of environmental topics (12).
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 25519 adults.
Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th January - 5th March 2021. The survey was carried out online.
The figures have been weighted and are representative of all country adults (aged 18+).18
50% of those surveyed across
the globe said television was
the key medium showcasing
environmental topics
Figure 13:
Australia 42%
Austria 58%
Belgium 47%
Brazil 53%
Canada 42%
Colombia 71%
France 50%
Germany 48%
Greece 47%
India 46%
Italy 60%
Japan 55%
Kenya 68%
Mexico 56%
Netherlands 43%
Poland 45%
Portugal 63%
Russia 44%
Spain 55%
Sweden 40%
Turkey 54%
UK 49%
UAE 44%
USA 34%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
In Italy, television was the key medium showcasing environmental topics with half (50%)
of those surveyed noting an increase. In the UK, environmental documentaries such as
David Attenborough’s ‘A Perfect Planet’ were a key factor in educating consumers on
environmental issues, with climate activists such as Greta Thunberg encouraging one in
ten Brits to act (13).
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 25519 adults.
Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th January - 5th March 2021. The survey was carried out online.
The figures have been weighted and are representative of all country adults (aged 18+).19
A quarter (25%) of consumers
want to educate themselves
further on environmental issues
Figure 14:
Australia 20%
Austria 15%
Belgium 13%
Brazil 38%
Canada 20%
Colombia 60%
France 18%
Germany 11%
Greece 32%
India 38%
Italy 28%
Japan 20%
Kenya 55%
Mexico 44%
Netherlands 13%
Poland 26%
Portugal 34%
Russia 22%
Spain 27%
Sweden 11%
Turkey 31%
UK 14%
UAE 34%
USA 18%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
Colombians significantly wanted to educate themselves with 3 in 5 (60%) wanting to
improve their learning followed by Kenya (55%) and Mexico (44%) (14).
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 25519 adults.
Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th January - 5th March 2021. The survey was carried out online.
The figures have been weighted and are representative of all country adults (aged 18+).20
Discarded PPE prompted
consumers to be more
sustainably aware
The UK
55%
Portugal
and Poland
51%
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 25519 adults.
Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th January - 5th March 2021. The survey was carried out online.
The figures have been weighted and are representative of all country adults (aged 18+).21
35% of consumers stated that
the increase of single-use plastics
was a factor in encouraging better
environmental decisions
Figure 16:
Australia 35%
Austria 28%
Belgium 29%
Brazil 34%
Canada 35%
Colombia 55%
France 24%
Germany 26%
Greece 44%
India 47%
Italy 39%
Japan 32%
Kenya 55%
Mexico 46%
Netherlands 30%
Poland 51%
Portugal 37%
Russia 37%
Spain 42%
Sweden 17%
Turkey 41%
UK 33%
UAE 44%
USA 25%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
For the consumers who’ve become more sustainably aware, seeing discarded PPE was a
reason for this change in opinion. Most notably in Kenya and Colombia where over half of
the nation (55%) were encouraged to act more sustainably because of seeing the likes of
single-use takeaway packaging and disposable gloves, followed by Mexico (46%) (16).
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 25519 adults.
Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th January - 5th March 2021. The survey was carried out online.
The figures have been weighted and are representative of all country adults (aged 18+).22
Of those that have changed their
opinion of the environment and
sustainability, 44% admit to
having more time to think about
environmental impact
Figure 17:
Australia 44%
Austria 34%
Belgium 37%
Brazil 58%
Canada 38%
Colombia 72%
France 37%
Germany 32%
Greece 49%
India 47%
Italy 44%
Japan 38%
Kenya 56%
Mexico 52%
Netherlands 29%
Poland 49%
Portugal 54%
Russia 37%
Spain 50%
Sweden 34%
Turkey 43%
UK 37%
UAE 40%
USA 40%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
Consumers have had more time to make better environmental choices. Having more time to
think about environmental impact is one of the top reasons highlighting how the pandemic
has shifted behaviors, with 44% admitting this has been a pivotal factor. Almost 3 in 4
Colombians (72%) agreed that the extra time (due to reduced travel, lockdowns, etc) had
supported them thinking more about their environmental impact with 1 in 2 of those in
Spain also admitting the same (17).
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 25519 adults.
Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th January - 5th March 2021. The survey was carried out online.
The figures have been weighted and are representative of all country adults (aged 18+).23
The pandemic has
led to consumers
wanting to develop
more sustainable
and healthier habits
and behaviors
Poland Portugal Canada
37% 35% 34%
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 25519 adults.
Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th January - 5th March 2021. The survey was carried out online.
The figures have been weighted and are representative of all country adults (aged 18+).24
Nearly a quarter of the globe
surveyed want to adopt a more
environmentally friendly diet (24%)
Figure 19:
Australia 23%
Austria 32%
Belgium 21%
Brazil 34%
Canada 22%
Colombia 28%
France 23%
Germany 27%
Greece 25%
India 28%
Italy 27%
Japan 7%
Kenya 33%
Mexico 22%
Netherlands 25%
Poland 32%
Portugal 38%
Russia 15%
Spain 19%
Sweden 18%
Turkey 15%
UK 3722
UAE 27%
USA 17%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
Purchasing less in general was a top three environmentally friendly habit, with 10% more
women wanting to adopt this behavior compared to men. Top countries likely to reduce
their shopping: Poland (37%), Portugal (35%) and Canada (34%) (18).
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 25519 adults.
Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th January - 5th March 2021. The survey was carried out online.
The figures have been weighted and are representative of all country adults (aged 18+).25
Exercising and enjoying wellbeing
activities has become a key focus across
the globe with 1 in 3 taking more active
steps to lead a healthier lifestyle for the
first time since the start of the pandemic
Figure 20:
Australia 30%
Austria 31%
Belgium 30%
Brazil 51%
Canada 33%
Colombia 51%
France 28%
Germany 28%
Greece 42%
India 38%
Italy 39%
Japan 40%
Kenya 57%
Mexico 55%
Netherlands 29%
Poland 37%
Portugal 37%
Russia 33%
Spain 39%
Sweden 25%
Turkey 41%
UK 28%
UAE 43%
USA 25%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
Consumers are now taking active steps to become healthier. Exercising and enjoying
wellbeing activities has become a key focus across the globe with 1 in 3 taking more active
steps to lead a healthier lifestyle. Improving wellbeing was particularly important for the
Kenyans where over half of their nation (57%) were actively supporting wellness in their lives
for the first time, followed by Mexico (55%) and Brazil (51%) (20).
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 25519 adults.
Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th January - 5th March 2021. The survey was carried out online.
The figures have been weighted and are representative of all country adults (aged 18+).26
Consumers are now
more conscious of their
environmental impact
and want to reduce their
carbon footprint
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 25519 adults.
Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th January - 5th March 2021. The survey was carried out online.
The figures have been weighted and are representative of all country adults (aged 18+).27
The pandemic has undoubtedly
driven a more conscious consumer,
with almost 3 in 5 (58%) globally
now more aware of their impact
on the environment compared
to pre-pandemic
Figure 21:
Australia 57%
Austria 55%
Belgium 44%
Brazil 85%
Canada 54%
Colombia 93%
France 47%
Germany 41%
Greece 70%
India 78%
Italy 56%
Japan 41%
Kenya 94%
Mexico 85%
Netherlands 41%
Poland 64%
Portugal 76%
Russia 51%
Spain 60%
Sweden 40%
Turkey 86%
UK 44%
UAE 83%
USA 40%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
The top three most environmentally conscious countries were Kenya (94%), Turkey (86%)
and Brazil (85%) (21)
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 25519 adults.
Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th January - 5th March 2021. The survey was carried out online.
The figures have been weighted and are representative of all country adults (aged 18+).28
Globally consumers feel it has
become a lot more important to
reduce their carbon footprint with
over half (54%) feeling it is now
more important to reduce their
impact on the environment
Figure 22:
Australia 53%
Austria 53%
Belgium 38%
Brazil 75%
Canada 49%
Colombia 83%
France 40%
Germany 38%
Greece 70%
India 78%
Italy 64%
Japan 37%
Kenya 84%
Mexico 72%
Netherlands 38%
Poland 54%
Portugal 75%
Russia 40%
Spain 56%
Sweden 37%
Turkey 74%
UK 43%
UAE 72%
USA 39%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
In Kenya (84%) of those surveyed stated it is now more important than before that they
reduce their carbon footprint followed by Columbia (83%) and India (78%). (22)
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 25519 adults.
Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th January - 5th March 2021. The survey was carried out online.
The figures have been weighted and are representative of all country adults (aged 18+).29 Consumers wish to enjoy life to the fullest post-pandemic
30
Enjoying life to the fullest is
one of the top three effects of
COVID-19, with more than a
third (35%) globally placing more
importance on enjoying life
In Belgium half the nation (50%) stated consumers don’t need to commute
this as an effect of the pandemic, long distances, with almost 2 in 5
followed by 43% of Greece and 2 in 5 of those aged 55+ revealing this in
Brits (40%) also wanting to make this comparison to 26% of Gen Z. In the
change towards a happier lifestyle. UAE and Russia 2 out of 5 (40%)
felt the pandemic had shown that
Consumers want to take more time to they don’t need to unnecessarily travel
appreciate nature, particularly women long distance for work with over a
(41%) versus men (32%). In Greece, third (35%) of those in Australia who
Portugal and Brazil over half (56%) are have changed their attitude towards
more likely to take time out of their day the environment and sustainability
to appreciate their environment. (8) saying they will be looking to reduce
The pandemic has demonstrated that travel where possible.
Gre
ece
gal
56%
Portu
il
az
Br
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 25519 adults.
Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th January - 5th March 2021. The survey was carried out online.
The figures have been weighted and are representative of all country adults (aged 18+).31
The pandemic has
fostered better local
community connections
The pandemic has helped people to local businesses, with an average of
feel more connected to their local 23% actively wanting to buy more
community with nearly 2 in 5 of the products produced locally to them,
55+ age group feeling more connected when prompted on their top three
than they did pre COVID-19 (39%). behaviours they will change following
In Kenya 45% fostered better local the pandemic. Those living in Austria
community connections followed (37%), Canada (33%) and Australia
by 43% in Canada and Portugal . (31%) placed the most emphasis
A quarter (25%) of respondents on locally sourced products with 1
within the Gen Z age group felt more in 3 wanting to buy more products
connected to their local community produced locally. Globally those aged
because of the pandemic, increasing 55 and above (27%) were twice as
to 2 in 5 with those aged 55+. likely to buy products produced locally
to them than Gen Z (15%) with an
Across Europe consumers are giving equal gender split of men (20%)
more importance to supporting and women (23%).
Kenya Portugal Canada
45% 43% 43%
Austria Canada Australia
37% 33% 31%
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 25519 adults.
Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th January - 5th March 2021. The survey was carried out online.
The figures have been weighted and are representative of all country adults (aged 18+).32
34% of respondents who feel these
issues are more important stated
that the pandemic has helped people
to feel more connected to their local
community and would therefore like
to shop locally more
Figure 23:
Australia 40%
Austria 35%
Belgium 31%
Brazil 34%
Canada 43%
Colombia 32%
France 29%
Germany 35%
Greece 36%
India 40%
Italy 33%
Japan 27%
Kenya 45%
Mexico 32%
Netherlands 32%
Poland 34%
Portugal 43%
Russia 23%
Spain 30%
Sweden 29%
Turkey 32%
UK 31%
UAE 31%
USA 28%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 25519 adults.
Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th January - 5th March 2021. The survey was carried out online.
The figures have been weighted and are representative of all country adults (aged 18+).33
Consumers are now more
conscious of a company’s
eco credentials and
want them to act
more ethically
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 25519 adults.
Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th January - 5th March 2021. The survey was carried out online.
The figures have been weighted and are representative of all country adults (aged 18+).34
Companies and brands are
now expected to act with
greater purpose
Figure 24:
Australia 61%
Austria 65%
Belgium 46%
Brazil 84%
Canada 58%
Colombia 88%
France 51%
Germany 45%
Greece 84%
India 77%
Italy 72%
Japan 47%
Kenya 84%
Mexico 76%
Netherlands 49%
Poland 60%
Portugal 79%
Russia 59%
Spain 62%
Sweden 35%
Turkey 82%
UK 52%
UAE 74%
USA 47%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
Consumers are now more conscious of a company’s eco credentials and want them to act
more ethically. This is across several areas including waste management, plastic pollution
and the health and wellbeing of their employees, with 62% across the globe deeming this
a lot more important than at the start of the pandemic.
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 25519 adults.
Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th January - 5th March 2021. The survey was carried out online.
The figures have been weighted and are representative of all country adults (aged 18+).35
When considering the three key issues,
37% of consumers expect companies
to focus on waste reduction (i.e., food
waste and reducing water and energy
consumption)
Figure 25:
Australia 38%
Austria 52%
Belgium 39%
Brazil 48%
Canada 37%
Colombia 37%
France 44%
Germany 40%
Greece 47%
India 35%
Italy 31%
Japan 34%
Kenya 26%
Mexico 33%
Netherlands 37%
Poland 45%
Portugal 51%
Russia 30%
Spain 32%
Sweden 27%
Turkey 35%
UK 37%
UAE 30%
USA 31%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
Consumers expect companies to focus on waste reduction (i.e. food waste and reducing
water and energy consumption), with 2 in 5 of the 55+ age group stating this as a key issue
that companies should address. (25)
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 25519 adults.
Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th January - 5th March 2021. The survey was carried out online.
The figures have been weighted and are representative of all country adults (aged 18+).36
On average 31% across the globe
revealed that companies should be more
conscious of their employees’ health
and wellbeing when dealing with their
top three issues besides coronavirus
Figure 26:
Australia 35%
Austria 26%
Belgium 31%
Brazil 35%
Canada 36%
Colombia 31%
France 33%
Germany 24%
Greece 28%
India 30%
Italy 31%
Japan 24%
Kenya 48%
Mexico 32%
Netherlands 25%
Poland 25%
Portugal 26%
Russia 26%
Spain 31%
Sweden 30%
Turkey 32%
UK 37%
UAE 41%
USA 33%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
Reducing plastic waste was another highly listed issue, demonstrated in the 55+
age group where 43% felt that companies should tackle this issue versus Gen Z at 29%.
In the UK, 44% of those surveyed believed that brands should focus on tackling the overuse
of plastics in packaging.
Consumers want workforces to be healthy and happy. Consumers wanting companies
and brands to focus on their employees’ health and wellbeing as a priority came into the
top three focal points with an average of 31% across the globe revealing that companies
should be more conscious of their employees (26).
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 25519 adults.
Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th January - 5th March 2021. The survey was carried out online.
The figures have been weighted and are representative of all country adults (aged 18+).37
Consumers now have increased
expectations of companies to act
with greater purpose and placing
increased value (35%) on brands that
act in a responsible, transparent
and honest way
Figure 27:
Australia 37%
Austria 34%
Belgium 26%
Brazil 55%
Canada 36%
Colombia 54%
France 31%
Germany 24%
Greece 45%
India 38%
Italy 36%
Japan 22%
Kenya 52%
Mexico 42%
Netherlands 20%
Poland 37%
Portugal 55%
Russia 28%
Spain 44%
Sweden 25%
Turkey 51%
UK 29%
UAE 35%
USA 26%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
But consumers are likely to stop using a brand that hasn’t adopted sustainable values.
Consumers now have increased expectations of companies to act with greater purpose
and placing increased value (35% globally) (27) on brands that make ethical choices, with
India (36%), Greece (33%) and Brazil (35%) being the top countries likely to boycott
a brand with no sustainability plans for the future (28).
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 25519 adults.
Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th January - 5th March 2021. The survey was carried out online.
The figures have been weighted and are representative of all country adults (aged 18+).38
24% of consumers are likely
to stop shopping from brands
with no sustainability plans
for the future
Figure 28:
Australia 28%
Austria 23%
Belgium 17%
Brazil 35%
Canada 25%
Colombia 43%
France 19%
Germany 16%
Greece 33%
India 36%
Italy 32%
Japan 9%
Kenya 37%
Mexico 34%
Netherlands 14%
Poland 21%
Portugal 32%
Russia 13%
Spain 25%
Sweden 16%
Turkey 28%
UK 21%
UAE 28%
USA 17%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 25519 adults.
Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th January - 5th March 2021. The survey was carried out online.
The figures have been weighted and are representative of all country adults (aged 18+).39
Priceless Planet Coalition
With growing consumer passion for the environment, Mastercard continues
to develop products and programs that help people contribute to the future
of the planet.
In 2020, Mastercard launched the Priceless Planet Coalition and committed
to restoring 100 million trees in five years, uniting the efforts of merchants,
banks, cities and consumers to take action and fight climate change.
The Priceless Planet Coalition aims to reinforce a restoration model that’s not
only focused on planting trees, but on re-growing forests in geographies with
the greatest need and most potential for a positive climate, community and
biodiversity impact. Guided by the expertise of forest restoration partners,
Conservation International and World Resources Institute, and our Advisory
Committee, the Coalition has employed rigorous science-based best practices
to identify three restoration locations for the coming year in Kenya, Brazil and
Australia. Beyond these initial projects, the project portfolio will be expanded
to include other locations that meet established criteria.
PricelessPlanet.org
#pricelessplanet
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 25519 adults.
Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th January - 5th March 2021. The survey was carried out online.
The figures have been weighted and are representative of all country adults (aged 18+).You can also read
