Despite economy, consumers still buying green

WASHINGTON A new study commissioned by Green Seal and EnviroMedia Social Marketing and conducted by Opinion Research found that four out of five people say they are still buying green products and services today--which sometimes cost more--even in the midst of a U.S. recession.

Half of the 1,000 people surveyed say they are buying just as many green products now as before the economic downturn, while 19% say they are buying more green products. Fourteen percent say they are buying fewer environmentally green products.

Despite the popularity of green products, about one in three consumers say they don't know how to tell if green product claims are true. However, 24% of consumers are verifying green claims by reading the packaging, while 17% turn to research (going online, reading studies) to ensure they're getting a green product.

"This research suggests that consumers are buying green products second only to participating in recycling," said Arthur Weissman, Ph.D., Green Seal's president and CEO. "This increased consumer demand sends a signal to manufacturers to produce products that are truly green."