New Poll Shows 74% of Brits Demand Plastic-Free Packaging Ahead of World Cup 2026
New research released during London Climate Action Week suggests there is strong public backing for reducing plastic packaging at large-scale events.
A survey commissioned by materials innovation company Xampla found that 74% of people in the UK would like major sporting events to use plastic-free food packaging, highlighting growing concern about the environmental impact of single-use plastics.
The findings come as the FIFA World Cup 2026 is expected to generate an estimated 156 tonnes of single-use plastic waste, equivalent to enough plastic material to stretch across more than 13,000 football pitches.
Hidden Plastic Remains a Knowledge Gap
One of the most notable findings from the research was the level of confusion surrounding food packaging materials.
Nearly half of those surveyed (49%) were unaware that many takeaway food boxes marketed as paper or cardboard products actually contain a thin plastic lining.
These plastic coatings are commonly used to provide grease and moisture resistance but can make packaging more difficult to recycle and often leave consumers unsure about how items should be disposed of.
The results suggest there is still a significant gap between how packaging appears and what it is actually made from.
Clearer Packaging Information Wanted
The survey also highlighted demand for greater transparency from manufacturers and food businesses.
According to the findings:
- 79% want packaging to clearly state whether it contains plastic
- 80% believe plastic-free alternatives should be used wherever practical in takeaways, supermarkets and food service settings
The data indicates that consumers are paying closer attention not only to packaging waste itself, but also to the materials used in everyday food packaging products.
Pressure Increasing on the Food and Events Sectors
With millions of people expected to attend sporting events, festivals and public gatherings over the summer, packaging choices are receiving greater scrutiny than ever before.
The research suggests that public expectations are shifting beyond simple recyclability towards packaging solutions that avoid plastic altogether where suitable alternatives are available.
For businesses operating within the food service, hospitality and events sectors, the growing focus on packaging materials reflects a wider conversation around waste reduction, resource use and consumer transparency.
As awareness of hidden plastics continues to increase, demand for clearly labelled and plastic-free packaging options is likely to remain a key topic across the industry.
Businesses looking to transition to plastic-free packaging solutions can explore options available through Affordable Waste Management, which supports organisations in adopting more sustainable materials and reducing reliance on single-use plastics.