Green has its limits

Less than half of Americans would give up their iPod if they thought it harmed the environment, according to a new survey by The Shelton Group.

The survey, which polled 1,006 consumers across the country, found 60% of Americans are looking for greener products. However, given a choice between their comfort, convenience or the environment, 38% of respondents said they’d choose their convenience, 36% said they’d choose comfort and 26% said they’d choose the environment, the survey found.

“Consumers don’t want to give up the modern conveniences of life,” Suzanne Shelton, company owner said in a statement. “We’re all basically saying, ‘I’ll be green as long it doesn’t make me uncomfortable or inconvenienced.’”

The survey asked, “If you thought these things were harming the environment, which of the following would you be willing to give up?” The responses were:
iPod – 38% would be willing to do without it
Dishwasher – 35%
Cellular phone – 21%
Air conditioning – 14%
TV – 13%
Computer – 7%
Car – 6%

“For most Americans, what once were considered conveniences have become necessities,” Shelton said. “That means the green movement has its work cut out for it: Convenience and comfort are big barriers for consumers going green.”