The Hidden ‘Green Tax’: Stop Overpaying for Eco-Friendly Goods
- friendsforneedsuk
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
You want to buy truly sustainable, eco-friendly products—but the dizzying price tags stop you every time. Brands are banking on a “green premium”, pushing sustainability at a high markup. Here's the raw truth—and why Palmtree Hygiene is different.
📊 The Price Barrier Is Real
A staggering 68% of UK consumers regularly avoid eco-friendly packaging because it's too expensive, and 44% say sustainable options cost more than they’re willing to pay.
62% blame cost as the primary barrier to adopting a sustainable lifestyle.
Although 68% view sustainable food 📦 positively, only 31–36% consider affordability a priority, reinforcing that sustainability doesn’t trump cost.

🧠 “Real Voices” Say It All
“Most… sustainable products cost 3–5× as much as the normal counterpart! Beeswax wraps… probably marked up at least 500 % for the sustainability ‘tax’.” - Reddit
Everyday shoppers confirm that when sustainability hikes prices 30–40%+, it’s straight-up unaffordable—even for those committed to eco choices .
✅ Palmtree Hygiene: Sustainability Without the Markup
At Palmtree Hygiene, we believe that eco-friendly products should be accessible to everyone.
Here's how we ensure our customers receive quality without the inflated prices:
Transparent Pricing We believe in honesty and clarity. Our Foaming Hand Sanitiser – Coconut Fragrance 100ml is priced at £3.99, offering premium quality without the premium price tag. Shop now.
High Value, Fair Price Our products are designed to be effective, gentle on the skin, and environmentally friendly. We focus on delivering value, not inflated profits.
Accessible Sustainability shouldn't come with a luxury price tag. If you care about the planet, we've made sure our products are affordable and accessible to all.
🛠️ What You Can Do Now
As a consumer: Look for value and transparency. Choose brands that show fair margins—not those charging a “green tax.”
As a brand: Use clear, honest pricing, prioritize affordability, and market sustainability as a long-term value, not just a buzzword.

🔚 Final Take
The “green tax” isn't about impact—it’s about inflated profits. With 68% blocked by price and 62% discouraged by cost, the market clearly needs affordable, genuine sustainability.
Support brands that care, not just charge. Embrace eco-friendly options that offer sustainable quality without penalizing your wallet.
🔗 Key Sources
UK research: 68% avoid eco-packaging over cost, 44% find it pricierreddit.comfibre2fashion.comconsultancy.ukgreenlivingblog.org.uknewsfromwales.co.uk
62% say cost is the main barrier to sustainabilityreddit.comfibre2fashion.comconsultancy.uk
Beeswax wrap Reddit quotes on 3–5× costs and 500% markupsreddit.com
Consumer attitudes: 68% positive on sustainable food; 31–36% prioritize affordabilitygreenlivingblog.org.ukuk.sodexo.comfmindustry.com
Additional sources referenced:prnewswire.comey.comfacilitatiemagazine.com