Survey Finds 80% of Americans Aim to Live Greener in 2011
A new survey released by Marcal Small Steps, a recycled paper products company, revealed something big: 80% of Americans resolved to go greener in the new year. From simple lifestyle changes to sustainable shopping habits, Americans said they were ready to take real steps toward eco-conscious living.
The study showed a major shift. Green living wasn’t just a trend anymore—it was becoming a personal commitment.
Small Actions, Big Intentions
According to the nationwide study, most people didn’t aim to make radical changes. Instead, they focused on everyday steps. The most common responses included using less water, recycling more often, and switching to eco-friendly household products like recycled paper goods or non-toxic cleaners.
Marcal’s study found that consumers wanted to act, but they also needed accessible ways to do it. That’s where products made from recycled materials came in. People wanted to live better without overhauling their lives.
Greener Homes, Greener Choices
One of the standout findings was that people viewed their homes as the best place to start. Nearly 7 in 10 Americans said they felt most empowered to make green changes at home. From turning off lights to using cloth towels instead of paper, small habits were building a movement.
And the paper product space was getting attention. Traditional paper goods made from virgin fiber—cut directly from trees—were losing favor. Marcal promoted its “Small Steps” line as a better alternative: made from 100% recycled paper, whitened without chlorine bleach, and made entirely in the U.S.
Green Goals Meet Everyday Life
While 80% of people said they wanted to live greener, the study also uncovered the challenges they faced. Time, money, and confusion over what’s truly sustainable often stood in the way. That’s why brands like Marcal emphasized simple, affordable products that didn’t require extra effort or cost.
The results also aligned with broader cultural shifts. Television shows, school programs, and public policy were all embracing sustainability. This survey confirmed that green values were making their way into living rooms, classrooms, and shopping carts.
Small Steps Lead to Long-Term Impact
Marcal’s campaign wasn’t just about selling recycled toilet paper. It was about sparking action. Their message? Green living isn’t all or nothing. It’s about small choices that add up. And according to this data, most Americans were on board.
Lisa Thornton, spokesperson for Marcal Small Steps at the time, noted: “It’s encouraging to see so many people making sustainability a personal goal. Even one greener habit, when multiplied by millions, can have a lasting impact.”
Conclusion
As the 2011 study revealed, Americans weren’t waiting for big government policies or corporate breakthroughs. They were starting with themselves. And with the right tools—like recycled paper products—they were ready to make their resolutions stick. The message was clear: small steps matter, especially when taken together.
Sources:
- Marcal Small Steps Brand Archive – https://www.marcalpaper.com
- Green America – https://www.greenamerica.org
