Going Eco-Friendly

Mintel finds more new products boasting environmentally friendly
claims
CHICAGO--(Business Wire)--
Americans increasingly express environmental concerns, so
manufacturers are taking steps to convey the eco-friendliness of their
products. According to Mintel Global New Products Database (GNPD), the
number of new products with an environmentally friendly claim has
grown substantially over the past five years. In 2002, only five such
products were launched, but in 2007 there were a staggering 328. This
was an increase of nearly 200% from the year before.

"We're seeing rapid growth in new products with environmentally
friendly traits," comments Chris Haack, senior research analyst at
Mintel. Haack goes on, "more than ever, shoppers want to purchase
goods that help protect and preserve the world around them.
Manufacturers have responded with everything from recyclable packaging
to products that maintain the body's health to entire brands that
support environmental causes."

According to Mintel, people especially look for eco-friendliness
when shopping for household paper products (66%), food (57%) and
energy efficient appliances (48%). The environment, a desire for
pesticide-free foods and the rising costs of energy are driving people
toward greener purchases. One new trend observed by Mintel is foods
that are not necessarily organic or natural but address other
environmental concerns. For example, some companies use Green Energy
Credits logos on packaging, while others support major health
associations.

Mintel reveals that almost 200 million Americans buy green
products. Price, perceived value and convenience drive these purchases
as more and more people take on a green lifestyle. Thanks to
manufacturers' recent moves, consumers can now find more choices of
environmentally friendly products than ever before.

About Mintel

Mintel is a leading global supplier of consumer, product and media
intelligence. For more than 35 years, Mintel has provided insight into
key worldwide trends, offering unique data that directly impacts
client success. Mintel Global New Products Database (GNPD), your new
product partner, tracks international new product launches,
innovations and development trends. With offices in Chicago, London,
Belfast, Sydney, Shanghai and Tokyo, Mintel has forged a unique
reputation as a world-renowned business brand. For more information on
Mintel, please visit www.mintel.com.

Mintel International
Meesham Neergheen, 312-628-7946
meesham@mintel.com

Copyright Business Wire 2008