Sustainability Attitudes & Behavior in France

Sustainability Interest Is Strong, and Action Is Daily

In France, three in four people show at least some interest in sustainable living, with one in three “very interested.” Many turn this interest into small but consistent actions, water saving is the top daily priority for 43%, far ahead of other practices. Recycling, composting, and using eco-friendly products also rank high, but water conservation clearly defines France’s approach.

Practical Over Ambitious

Yet, only 13% are “extremely concerned” about climate change. Most feel moderate or slight concern, which helps explain why these efforts center on familiar, manageable habits, like composting, reducing waste, and reusing materials, rather than big, high-cost changes like installing solar panels or joining community initiatives.

Cost and Knowledge Gaps Hold Back Change

For half of the French, sustainable products are simply too expensive, the biggest obstacle to greener living. Other hurdles include limited public transport (20%), lack of time (17%), and unclear guidance (16%). Awareness of the “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” concept is also low, with only 5% saying they know it well. Together, these barriers make bigger, long-term lifestyle shifts harder to achieve.