A new study for the European Commission shows that, despite the consensus on methods to influence consumption through the "classic" instruments of policy (regulatory, economic and informational) and increasing discussion on the potential of the "behavioural" approach, some essential conditions are forgotten. These include the need for strong engagement of citizens on values, leading to an effective and long-term behavioural change. Similarly, it has rarely been considered to favour the action that could be most effective, that is to say, where consumption is the result of constraints rather than the satisfaction of needs or desires.

Download the report here.