Category: Insight

Why Market Research is More Important Than Ever

January 2025, by MM-Eye

In the current social and political climate where ideologies shift rapidly and consumer expectations evolve at an unprecedented pace, relying on yesterday’s knowledge to guide today’s decisions is no longer an option. The landscape of consumer behaviour is constantly being reshaped by cultural, economic, and political changes, making adaptability essential for businesses. This is where market research becomes invaluable.

The Changing Face of Consumer Behaviour

Consumers today are more informed, connected, and value-driven than ever before. Trends that were once considered niche can gain traction overnight, thanks to social media and global connectivity. Political developments, economic uncertainties, and cultural movements all influence consumer attitudes and choices in ways that can be difficult to predict.

The rise of progressive movements has amplified consumer interest in sustainability, inclusivity, and ethical sourcing. These shifts are driving demand for brands to be transparent, socially responsible, and aligned with values that champion equity and environmental stewardship.

At the same time, there has been a rise in more conservative voices influencing consumer behaviour. This includes increased interest in supporting locally made products, traditional values, and resistance to perceived “corporate virtue signalling.” Brands need to navigate these opposing forces carefully, ensuring their messaging connect without alienating key audience segments.

The Role of Market Research

Market research is about more than gathering data it is about understanding the “why” behind consumer actions and understanding opportunities to connect with them meaningfully. Research helps businesses:

1. Stay Relevant by identifying emerging trends and shifts in behaviour. With these insights, brands can adapt their strategies to meet the evolving needs of their audience, ensuring they remain connected to what matters most.
2.  Anticipate Change by understanding how political and cultural movements lead to significant shifts in consumer preferences. Analysing these changes in real time helps businesses prepare accordingly and respond proactively.
3.  Avoid Missteps in today’s value-driven marketplace, where brands are scrutinised more than ever. Market research provides a deeper understanding of consumer sensitivities, helping businesses avoid misaligned messaging or actions that could harm their reputation.
4. Uncover Opportunities by highlighting areas for growth and innovation. Research enables businesses to stay ahead of the curve and capitalise on new developments in the market.
5. Develop Targeted Approaches by providing insights that resonate with specific audience segments. This ensures that messaging and products are more effective, building stronger connections with consumers.

Why It Matters Now

The rapid pace of change in consumer beliefs and ideas means the insights you relied on last year—or even last month—may no longer be applicable. Global events, from the increased focus on climate change to the prominence of diverse political voices, have profoundly shaped consumer priorities. Some consumers now demand greater transparency and ethical accountability from brands, while others prioritise affordability, tradition, or local sourcing.

Businesses need to maintain a pulse on their audience to navigate this dynamic environment effectively. Market research provides the foundation for this understanding, offering the clarity needed to make informed, strategic decisions.

Guessing what your consumers want is no longer an option. The brands that thrive are those that invest in understanding their audience through robust market research. At MM-Eye, we specialise in helping businesses decode these shifts, offering insights that drive smarter decisions and more meaningful connections.

If you’re ready to stay ahead of the curve and better understand your consumers, contact us at info@mm-eye.com or use the form below to book a consultation.

The Rise of Sustainable Fitness Wear: Trends and Innovations for a Healthier Planet

January 2025, by Blessing Olaoye

The fitness industry has seen remarkable growth in recent years, likewise, so has the fitness wear industry – largely fuelled by a global focus on health and wellness across social platforms. However, this rise in popularity has resulted in an environmental cost, whereby conventional fitness wear is often made from petroleum-based synthetic materials, therefore contributing to pollution, microplastic release, and excessive waste. The good news is that a wave of sustainability is transforming the fitness world. Understanding consumer demand for sustainability is at the heart of what we do here at MM-Eye, and it’s clear that the fitness wear industry is experiencing a shift. We are seeing a rise in eco-conscious brands adopting innovative strategies in response to these growing

Let’s explore some of the current trends in the fitness wear industry that are shaping the industry’s future regarding sustainability.

Eco-Friendly Materials

One of the most significant sustainability trends in the fitness wear industry is the use of eco-friendly materials. Brands have started moving away from conventional synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon, opting for more sustainable alternatives. Organic cotton, cultivated without harmful pesticides and fertilisers, is a popular choice for its reduced environmental impact and comfortable feel. Recycled polyester is also another popular choice, created from post-consumer plastic bottles, thus diverting waste from landfills and lessening our reliance on virgin polyester production. Some brands are even going further to utilise fabrics derived from ocean plastics, which offers a solution to marine pollution while providing high-performance fitness wear.

Sustainable Brands Leading the Way

An increasing number of brands have committed to sustainable practices throughout their supply chain. Patagonia, best known for their long-standing commitment to environmental responsibility, offers a wide range of durable and ethically sourced and produced activewear. Another brand is Girlfriend Collective, which focuses on inclusivity and body positivity while utilising recycled materials in their stylish activewear. Other mentionable brands include Pact and Everlane, each with their own unique approach to sustainability. For these brands, transparency, ethical sourcing, and fair labour practices are their utmost priority.

Circular Economy Initiatives

You may have come across the concept of a circular economy among your favourite clothing brands, it’s also gaining momentum in the fitness wear industry. ON Running’s Cyclon program offers a fully recyclable shoe subscription service which allows customers to return their shoes for recycling after use. Adidas has also committed to using 100% recycled polyester by 2024, while Nike’s Move to Zero initiative focuses on reducing waste and carbon emissions. These initiatives demonstrate how committed these brands are to shifting towards a more responsible and sustainable approach to production and encouraging sustainable consumption by consumers.

Consumer Attitudes and Preferences

Consumer attitudes towards sustainable fitness wear are also shifting rapidly as more consumers become more aware of the environmental and social impact of their fashion choices. Studies have shown that a significant portion of consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable activewear. This growing awareness and willingness to invest in sustainable alternatives is evidence of the change in consumer values and priorities. As consumers become increasingly concerned about the environmental impact of their fashion purchase decisions, they are looking for brands that are transparent about their practices and committed to reducing their environmental footprint. Thus, factors such as the use of more eco-friendly materials, ethical sourcing and reduced waste are becoming more important in consumer choices. Here at MM-Eye, we have seen firsthand through our Say Do Sustainability Study (SDSS) that consumers are increasingly looking for businesses to make moves towards more sustainable operations. They expect brands to offer eco-friendly products and to openly demonstrate their commitment to sustainable practices.

The shift towards sustainable fitness wear is a movement driven by consumer demand, innovative brands and technological advancements. For most, if not all brands, understanding the consumer perspective on sustainability is important for staying relevant and competitive and can present an opportunity to build trust and loyalty with your consumers.

If you’re interested in learning more about how understanding consumer sustainability expectations can benefit your business, contact us today at info@mm-eye.com or use the form below to book a consultation.

Sustainable Christmas Decorations: Where Tradition Meets Innovation

December 2024, by Katie Brown

Christmas is a time for tradition, but as we become more aware of how our choices impact the planet, it’s clear that some of these traditions need a little update. This doesn’t mean losing the magic of the season—it’s about finding new ways to celebrate that feels good for us and for the environment.

At MM-Eye Ltd, we love innovative thinking, so why not apply that same creativity to the festive season? With a little effort, we can create a Christmas that’s every bit as joyful but much kinder to the planet.

Why Sustainable Decorations?

Every year, tons of plastic decorations are thrown away, and many of them can’t be recycled. Then there’s all the packaging, glitter, and tinsel—most of it ends up in the bin. By switching to more sustainable options, we can cut down on waste and create something truly special that lasts for years to come.

It’s not about being perfect; it’s about taking small steps that make a difference. Plus, sustainable decorations often come with a story or a personal touch, making them even more meaningful.

Simple Ways to Make a Difference

1. Invest in Quality

Instead of buying loads of cheap decorations, choose a few well-made pieces that can be reused year after year. Look for items made from natural materials like wood, metal, or glass. These not only look beautiful but also feel more special than mass-produced plastic.

2. Bring the Outdoors In

Nature is full of inspiration, especially at Christmas.

Use greenery like holly, ivy, and pine to make your own wreaths and garlands. These smell amazing and can go straight into your compost after the Christmas season is finished.

Pinecones and acorns make lovely decorations—paint them, add glitter, or leave them as they are for a more rustic vibe.

3. Get Creative with What You Have

You don’t need to buy new things to make your home feel festive.

Old jars can be turned into candle holders—tie some twine or ribbon around them for a simple but lovely touch.

Even cardboard boxes can be cut into star shapes or snowflakes to hang on your tree.

Making decorations yourself can also be a fun way to spend time with family or friends.

A New Way of Thinking

Sustainability isn’t just about the materials we use—it’s about how we think about the things we buy and keep. Choosing decorations that are reusable or handmade means you’re creating a Christmas that’s both beautiful and meaningful.

At MM-Eye, we always look for purpose in design, and Christmas is no different. A more sustainable approach doesn’t take away the magic—it adds to it by focusing on what really matters.

Start a Tradition

Sustainability can even become part of your family’s Christmas traditions. Here are a few ideas:

Make a new decoration every year to add to your collection. Over time, you’ll have a tree full of memories.

Pass down decorations to your kids or grandkids—it’s a lovely way to keep family history alive.

Shop locally or support small businesses that make handmade, eco-friendly decorations.

A Little Goes a Long Way

We don’t have to get everything perfect right away, but every small step adds up. By thinking a bit more about what we’re buying or making, we can create a Christmas that’s not just joyful but also kinder to the planet.

Let’s make this year’s decorations something to be proud of—not just for how they look, but for the difference they make.

From all of us at MM-Eye Ltd, happy Christmas! Let’s celebrate with a little more creativity and a lot more care this year. If you’re interested in learning more about MM-Eye and how we can help you with your sustainability goals, contact us today at info@mm-eye.com or use the form below to book a consultation.

Optimising Christmas Retail: AI Solutions for Demand and Sustainability

December 2024, by Vitalija Narstyte

As the festive season approaches, UK retailers prepare for the year’s busiest shopping period. The Christmas season is a time of joy for consumers and a critical period for retailers, with sales often making up a sizeable portion of their annual revenue. Accurate demand forecasting during this time is essential to meeting customer expectations, managing inventory efficiently, and maximising profits. AI solutions are transforming how retailers predict and respond to consumer demand.

The High Stakes of Christmas Retail

December sales can account for up to 20% of a UK retailer’s annual turnover. Misjudging demand risks empty shelves and lost sales and results in overstocking, which has significant financial and sustainability implications. Excess stock often leads to markdowns, wastage, or disposal, contributing to economic losses and environmental harm. Disposing unsold goods increases landfill waste and undermines retailers’ efforts to align with consumer demand for sustainable practices. Traditional forecasting methods, relying heavily on historical sales data and manual adjustments, often fail to address these dual pressures, especially in the face of rapidly changing consumer behaviours and external factors.

Using AI in Managing the Christmas Rush

AI has transformed demand forecasting, offering retailers powerful tools to manage the complexities of the Christmas shopping season. By leveraging machine learning algorithms and big data analytics, AI enables businesses to process vast information from various sources, leading to more precise and insightful predictions.

One key application of AI is analysing historical sales data, uncovering patterns and trends that would be difficult to detect manually. Social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram provide another valuable resource, offering insights into trending or viral products. Economic indicators, including employment rates and consumer confidence indexes, help predict purchasing power, while weather forecasts can significantly influence seasonal buying behaviours, especially for industries like fashion and food.

Several prominent UK retailers have showcased the transformative potential of AI in demand forecasting. For instance, Tesco employs AI to analyse customer data and anticipate product demand, effectively addressing stock shortages and overstocking issues. Similarly, ASOS uses machine learning to predict fashion trends, ensuring the right products are available at the right time. Meanwhile, John Lewis Partnership has integrated AI into its supply chain, leading to improved accuracy in demand forecasting and better product availability during peak shopping periods.

These innovations have yielded significant benefits, including increased sales, reduced operational costs, and enhanced customer experiences.

Challenges and Considerations

Despite its advantages, the adoption of AI in demand forecasting is not without challenges. The effectiveness of AI systems hinges on the quality of the data they process; inaccurate or incomplete data can lead to unreliable forecasts. Additionally, integrating AI technologies requires considerable investment in infrastructure and skilled personnel, which can be a barrier for some retailers.

Data privacy also presents a critical concern. With regulations like the GDPR, businesses must handle customer data responsibly and comply with legal requirements. Addressing these challenges is essential for retailers looking to harness the potential of AI while fully maintaining customer trust.

As more retailers adopt these technologies and navigate the associated challenges, AI will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of retail during the festive season and beyond.

How can MM-Eye help?

At MM-Eye, we leverage our expertise in AI to help businesses across industries meet their operational and sustainability goals. For example, our work with Burger & Lobster focused on harnessing data to anticipate energy demands, reduce waste, cut costs, and support their sustainability goals. Similarly, our AI-driven demand forecasting solutions can empower other businesses to analyse vast datasets to predict customer demand accurately.

MM-Eye’s advanced AI solutions analyse historical sales data, consumer behaviour patterns and external factors such as weather to deliver precise demand forecasts. This enables retailers to stock the right products at the right time, ensuring shelves are filled with what customers want while minimising the risk of overstocking.

Our AI tools can enhance operational decision-making beyond inventory. Businesses can better allocate staff during peak periods by predicting customer traffic and sales volumes, ensuring smooth operations. AI-driven insights can inform dynamic pricing strategies, allowing retailers to adjust prices based on demand patterns. These capabilities ensure retailers stay competitive and maximise revenue during the festive season.

Contact us today at info@mm-eye.com (or use the form below to book a consultation) to explore how our AI solutions can transform your demand forecasting strategy and prepare you for a successful festive season and beyond.

The Power of Ethnographic Research

December 2024, by MM-Eye

At MM-Eye, we spend a lot of time helping our clients truly understand the needs and behaviours of real consumers. While quantitative and traditional research methods remain essential, they don’t always capture the full picture of how people live, interact with products, or make decisions in the context of their daily lives. Ethnographic research is a powerful methodology that provides brands with deeper, more actionable insights.

This year, we have had the privilege of conducting in-home visits across the globe, observing consumers in their natural environments. Our travels inadvertently led to some interesting sustainability observations from the MD, which you can read about here: Why get so hung up about hotel towels? – MM-Eye

Our work this year has reinforced ethnography’s unique value in understanding the “why” behind consumer behaviours. Here, we will explore why ethnographic research is an important tool and how it can help your brand achieve its objectives.

What is Ethnographic Research?

Ethnographic research involves observing and interacting with consumers in their everyday environments, whether that’s their homes, workplaces, or local communities. Unlike surveys or focus groups, which rely on reported behaviour, ethnography offers a window into real-life actions and decision-making processes. This allows researchers to capture unspoken needs, cultural nuances, and contextual factors that influence consumer behaviour.

For example, ethnographic research can provide valuable insights into how home infrastructure supports or challenges the transition to electric vehicles. By spending time in consumers’ homes, researchers can see how factors like access to charging stations, energy management habits, or parking limitations influence decisions. This real-world perspective helps brands identify barriers and opportunities that traditional methods might overlook, guiding the development of tailored solutions for consumers navigating this shift.

Why Ethnographic Research Matters

Understanding the “Why” Behind Consumer Behaviour
While surveys can tell you what consumers think and traditional research can tell you how they behave, ethnographic research answers the question of “why.” By seeing how people use products in their natural environments, brands gain an understanding of the motivations, habits, and emotional drivers behind their choices.

Capturing Contextual Insights
Ethnography is great at understanding the influence of context on consumer behaviour. For instance, a consumer might answer a survey saying they prefer eco-friendly products, but observing their home may reveal barriers like the lack of convenient recycling solutions or competing priorities such as affordability. These insights provide richer, more nuanced data that brands can act on.

Innovating with Empathy
When brands understand the lived realities of their consumers, they are better equipped to develop products, services, and campaigns that resonate emotionally. Ethnographic research helps companies innovate with empathy, ensuring solutions align with real-world consumer needs.

Gaining a Competitive Edge
In a crowded marketplace, standing out requires deep consumer understanding. Ethnography provides the type of granular insights that can differentiate a brand. Whether it’s identifying unmet needs, uncovering latent desires, or gaining cultural understanding, this methodology can offer a distinct advantage over competitors relying solely on traditional methods.

How MM-Eye Brings Ethnographic Research to Life

At MM-Eye, we combine ethnographic research with our other methodologies to deliver well-rounded insights tailored to your business objectives. We ensure that the data collected through ethnographic research is robust and reliable. Combining this with our quantitative expertise and quality control measures (read more about how we fight bots in research: Are Bots Ruining Your Surveys? Here’s How We Catch Them! – MM-Eye), we create a holistic view of consumer behaviour that is both accurate and actionable.

Ethnographic research offers unique insights for brands looking to innovate or connect with their audience on a deeper level. Understanding the context in which consumers live, work, and make decisions allows you to develop solutions that are relevant, impactful, and aligned with real-world needs.

At MM-Eye, we pride ourselves on delivering insights that drive positive change. Whether through ethnography, surveys, or tailored research studies, we provide our clients with the tools they need to understand their consumers fully and make informed decisions.

Ethnographic research allows us to step into consumers’ worlds and understand their lives through their eyes and by integrating it into your strategy, you can realise the motivations, barriers, and opportunities that drive consumer behaviour, creating a foundation for better products, services, and campaigns.

If you’re ready to explore the power of ethnographic research and see how it can benefit your business, contact us today at info@mm-eye.com or use the form below to book a consultation.

World Toilet Day 2024: Why does it matter?

November 2024, by Nicola Church

World Toilet Day is held every year on 19 November to celebrate toilets and raise awareness of people living without access to safely managed sanitation. Toilets are an essential space at the centre of our lives and should be safe, secure and available to all. Yet, 3.5 billion people worldwide still live without safely managed sanitation, and 2.2 billion people live without safely managed drinking water.

When a challenge is this big, it can be hard to see how we can have an impact, but as companies, organisations, governments, and even individuals, we can all manage our water sustainably and contribute towards making a difference.

In our latest Say Do Sustainability Study (SDSS), we saw that though consumers recognise that it is important to take personal initiatives to live sustainably, the impact of their actions is significantly increased when supported by bigger, coordinated efforts. A united approach where community projects, government policies, and corporate responsibility all converge to enhance the impact of individual actions. World Toilet Day presents a platform on which to begin this journey and state your organisation’s commitment to drive change.

How can MM-Eye help?

At MM-Eye, we specialise in conducting materiality assessments that go beyond the basics, helping companies develop effective ESG strategies. We gather insights from a wide range of stakeholders, including customers, employees, and suppliers, to understand the issues that are most important to them, allowing you to focus efforts on areas that will have the most impact, both in terms of business performance and social responsibility.

Our model for conducting materiality assessments is designed to engage with consumers and stakeholders, providing a holistic view of what matters most. We use our strong experience in market research to gather qualitative and quantitative data, ensuring that the insights we deliver are actionable and aligned with your strategic goals.

The model is rooted in deep consumer and stakeholder understanding. We dig deeper to expose the underlying motivations and concerns that drive stakeholder behaviour. This allows us to provide you with a clear roadmap for integrating sustainability into your business strategy in a way that resonates with your audience and adds value to your brand.

Whether you’re just starting your sustainability journey or looking to refine your existing strategy, MM-Eye can help you identify the issues that matter most to your business and its stakeholders so you can make informed decisions that enhance your sustainability performance, strengthen stakeholder relationships, and drive long-term success.

If you’re interested in learning more about how we can help you to set up and benefit from a Materiality Assessment, contact us today at info@mm-eye.com or use the form below to book a consultation.

Could Esports Become The Next Mainstream Sport?

November 2024, by Matias Van der Heijden

As we come to the end of the year, one of the final and largest esports events in the world has gone. The League of Legends worlds championship took place over the last month, spanning from the 25th of September – to the 2nd of November. It was a painful watch for many (including me), seeing a lot of people’s favourite teams going out early, but the ending was sweet, seeing the Greatest Of All Time, Faker, winning his 5^th Trophy.

Every year, the world’s final seems to break new viewership records, with this year being no exception. The finals drew in 6.9 million live viewers across the world (excluding China) and brought in over 190 million hours of watch time across the tournament. With the finalists being both Korean and Chinese, the viewership from these countries was incredibly high. China doesn’t release viewership statistics, but my friend in China visited a nightclub that projected on the wall at 5 AM that it was the League of Legends World’s final (I can’t imagine this was the best viewing experience, though). At MM-Eye, we believe that understanding the consumer’s interest in emerging events like these is important for businesses looking to tap into new markets or adapt to changing trends. Our consumer research tools allow us to track how public perception is shifting toward esports, moving beyond the typical gaming audience and inching into the mainstream consciousness. The surge in viewership, the sold-out arenas, and the significant economic impact are strong indicators of changing consumer behaviour.

Many esports have done well through the years, notably, the Fortnite World Cup back in 2019, which brought in 2.3 million peak viewers. However, viewership has been noticeably dropping over the last few years, now at 809,000 peak viewers. League of Legends, however, has managed to maintain its standing at the pinnacle of viewership. Year after year, it comes back the most viewed and breaks its own records for most viewed esports events. For brands and companies trying to understand the impact and relevance of esports, these statistics can’t be ignored. Our custom market studies help explain how and why these trends are happening. Businesses can use these insights to craft advertising strategies, sponsorships, and partnerships that connect with this engaged and growing audience.

In person, the event was incredibly well organised, and it was impressive to see the turnout and management at an event that’s the size of a large sporting arena. With the event I was visiting being hosted at the Adidas arena in Paris, it was certainly sizeable but not quite the size of the finals that were hosted in London at the O2 arena.

As an in-person viewer, my experience was great, and I managed to enjoy the event along with countless other fans. Enjoying a multitude of incredible moments, watching the pros walk onto the stage, watching Bin throw his jacket into the crowd, sitting behind Faker himself and getting a splitting headache trying to track what he’s doing on his screen.

The viewership online was incredible, but with this being such a popular event, being held in the O2 this year. The finals tickets were nearly impossible to get your hands on. Causing Riot Games, the event organisers attempted to resolve these issues by forcing you to sign up for the ticket release through a code from an account that had been actively playing the game.

While these efforts show a move toward more consumer-centric solutions, the challenges highlighted by the ticketing issues reveal how much more brands can learn about their audiences. At MM-Eye, we understand that the consumer experience is more than just attending an event; it’s the journey leading up to it. Our research indicates that consumer sentiment around fairness and accessibility can impact brand loyalty, and these experiences often shape public perception long after the event is over.

Aside from the ticket issues, the event seems to have been an overwhelming success for both esports and the economy. Sadiq Khan stated on X: “The Capital will welcome gamers and fans across the globe, boosting our economy by £12m and showing that London is a leading destination for esports”.

Overall, this event was a massive success and I’m sure that the fans, the organisers and many more are happy with what it brought. However, understanding what the general public thinks about esports as a whole adds a fundamental layer of insight. At MM-Eye, we know that examining the perception of emerging industries, such as esports, is important for brands looking to align with evolving consumer attitudes.

It’s always interesting to look into an industry that seems to be growing. Our insights indicate that consumer perception can significantly impact an industry’s trajectory. Understanding how different demographics view esports can provide valuable opportunities for brands to position themselves within this rapidly growing space. With this tournament breaking viewership records, selling out arenas, and boosting the British economy, it’s worth examining whether esports is on the cusp of becoming mainstream entertainment or if it remains niche.

At MM-Eye, we’re committed to helping brands understand evolving consumer attitudes, whether it’s through traditional market analysis or deeper dives into new industries like esports. If you’re interested in leveraging our insights for your industry or exploring how public sentiment can shape your business strategy, contact us at info@mm-eye.com or use the form below to book a consultation.

The Explosive Truth About Fireworks: What Consumers Are Demanding from Brands on Sustainability

November 2024, by Katie Brown

Fireworks have been a part of celebrations for centuries, lighting up the night sky with their vibrant colours and thrilling explosions. But as environmental concerns continue to grow, it’s important to ask: are fireworks sustainable?  By looking at the following areas: Material, Method, Environmental Impact, and Innovation—we can take a closer look at the sustainability of fireworks and explore what greener alternatives might look like in the future.

What Are Fireworks Made Of?

Traditional fireworks are made using a combination of chemicals and metals that produce the colourful effects we see. Metals like barium, copper, and strontium are responsible for the colours, but they also release harmful pollutants into the environment when fireworks explode. These chemicals can contaminate the air and water, posing risks to human health and ecosystems. In recent years, there has been some progress in developing “eco-friendly” fireworks, which use fewer toxic compounds. However, these alternatives are still in their early stages and haven’t yet been widely adopted.

From a consumer standpoint, this is increasingly concerning. Our Say Do Sustainability Study (SDSS) at MM-Eye has shown that more consumers are paying attention to the ecological impact of their entertainment choices and demanding greater transparency and innovation from companies that produce celebratory goods. This growing awareness has even led some communities to reconsider traditional fireworks displays in favour of more eco-friendly alternatives.

Manufacturing and Transportation: The Hidden Costs

The way fireworks are manufactured and transported also plays a role in their sustainability. Production often takes place in countries where safety and environmental regulations are less strict, and workers are exposed to hazardous conditions. The materials used in fireworks are often non-renewable, and transporting them long distances adds to their carbon footprint. To make fireworks more sustainable, manufacturers would need to focus on using safer materials, adopting better waste-reduction practices, and considering local production to cut down on emissions.

SDSS highlighted that consumers are increasingly prioritising brands that demonstrate social and environmental responsibility across their supply chains. Companies in the pyrotechnics industry have an opportunity to communicate how they are improving their manufacturing processes and minimising environmental harm to improve consumer perceptions.

The Environmental Toll of Fireworks

Fireworks have a significant environmental impact, especially when used on a large scale. When fireworks are set off, they release pollutants such as heavy metals, carbon dioxide, and particulate matter into the atmosphere. This is particularly concerning during major events when air quality can take a dramatic hit. Chemicals like perchlorates, used to stabilise the explosives, can also leach into water systems, posing risks to aquatic life and drinking water sources. We also need to think about the effect this has on wildlife and pets, the loud noises and bright flashes disturb animals, causing stress and disorientation. Consumers, particularly pet owners or wildlife enthusiasts, are increasingly vocal about these issues. This growing awareness has sparked a demand for less disruptive and more sustainable alternatives.

Innovations in Green Technology

The future of fireworks may not involve traditional fireworks at all. Innovations like drone light shows and laser displays are starting to emerge as alternatives that offer the same visual excitement without harmful environmental effects. Drone shows, in particular, have been gaining popularity at major events like the Olympics, where hundreds of drones are synchronised to create dazzling patterns and animations in the sky. These technologies, while still expensive, offer a promising alternative to traditional fireworks, and as they evolve, they could become a more accessible option. Consumers are receptive to creative, sustainable alternatives, especially if they offer a similar level of spectacle. As these technologies evolve and become more affordable, we anticipate that consumer demand will continue to push event organisers and municipalities toward these greener options.

Balancing Tradition and Sustainability

Fireworks have deep cultural significance and bring joy to millions of people, but it’s clear that their environmental impact is something we can’t ignore. By looking at fireworks through the MM-Eye lens, we can see that making them more sustainable is about more than just reducing emissions—it’s about rethinking the materials and the manufacturing process and exploring innovative alternatives. Combining eco-friendly materials, careful usage, and exciting new technologies like drones could allow us to enjoy these displays without harming the environment.

Ultimately, making fireworks sustainable will require balancing tradition with responsibility. Consumers are increasingly aware of the environmental trade-offs and are looking for brands and communities to take action. For businesses, this presents both a challenge and an opportunity to align with consumer values.

At MM-Eye, we’re here to help brands understand and respond to these evolving consumer expectations. Our research and insights can guide you in making impactful, data-driven decisions. Whether you’re looking to implement greener practices or enhance your appeal through sustainability, reach out to us at info@mm-eye.com or use the form below to book a consultation. We’d love to discuss how our expertise can benefit your business.

Embracing Green AI: Balancing Innovation and Sustainability

October 2024, by Vitalija Narstyte 

Since the debut of ChatGPT in November 2022, the use of Generative AI has surged across industries. New AI-powered services and products are emerging daily, integrating into our everyday lives and transforming the way we do business. The potential of AI seems limitless. The promise of generative AI to revolutionise industries has generated an unprecedented level of excitement, with businesses eager to leverage its capabilities.

Amidst this enthusiasm, there is growing interest in how AI can help tackle climate change. AI excels at detecting patterns in data, identifying anomalies and similarities, and using historical knowledge to predict future outcomes. This capability makes AI invaluable for monitoring the environment and aiding governments, businesses, and individuals in making more eco-friendly decisions. For example, AI can detect when oil and gas facilities emit methane, a potent greenhouse gas contributing to climate change. Additionally, AI algorithms are being used to optimise energy consumption in buildings, predict weather patterns for renewable energy sources, and even monitor deforestation through satellite imagery.

However, the conversation about the environmental cost of large AI models often gets overshadowed. The more powerful and sophisticated the AI, the more resources it consumes. While it can be challenging to calculate the exact carbon footprint of a single AI model, factors include the energy required to manufacture computing hardware, develop the model, and run it. Training a single GPT-3-like model has been estimated to produce significant CO2 emissions – comparable to the annual emissions of over 100 petrol-powered cars. And that is just for training; deploying large AI models can have an even greater environmental impact. Data centres that house these AI models consume vast amounts of electricity, often generated from non-renewable sources, contributing further to greenhouse gas emissions.

These concerns have led to the emergence of Green AI. Green AI focuses on developing and applying AI technologies that emphasise energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. It aims to reduce CO2 emissions by using and training large models. Researchers and tech companies increasingly prioritise the ecological impact of their AI solutions, seeking ways to make AI more sustainable without sacrificing performance.

Green AI solutions fall into two categories: Mitigation and Oversight.

Mitigation involves creating more efficient models that require less energy. Researchers are exploring ways to compress large models into smaller ones that maintain accuracy but consume less energy. Google’s TensorFlow Lite is an example of a framework designed for deploying lightweight models on mobile and embedded devices, reducing the computational load and energy consumption.

Oversight relates to monitoring and predicting AI’s carbon footprint. This includes developing tools to estimate the energy consumption and emissions associated with AI workloads. Tools like carbon footprint calculators are becoming essential for increasing awareness of AI’s environmental impact. For example, Google’s Cloud Sustainability Calculator helps estimate the carbon footprint associated with using the Google Cloud Platform, allowing businesses to track and manage their emissions. Similarly, the Green Algorithms project provides an open-source tool to estimate the carbon emissions of computational tasks, promoting transparency and accountability.

Balancing energy efficiency with model accuracy can be challenging. However, the trade-off is often worth it when considering the environmental benefits. By focusing on algorithmic efficiency and leveraging hardware designed for low power consumption, It is possible to develop AI solutions that are both effective and eco-friendly.

Embracing Green AI also has significant business advantages. Companies that adopt sustainable practices can reduce operational costs by lowering energy consumption. Moreover, they can enhance their brand reputation by demonstrating a commitment to environmental responsibility, which is increasingly important to consumers.

While AI offers immense innovation potential, it is crucial to consider its environmental impact. By adopting Green AI practices, businesses can continue to leverage the benefits of AI while contributing to a more sustainable future. The transition to Green AI is not just about technology; it is about reshaping business models and strategies to prioritise sustainability.

At MM-Eye, we know that harnessing the power of AI is about making smart, data-driven decisions that align with consumer expectations. Our Say Do Sustainability Study (SDSS) has shown that consumers are increasingly scrutinising the environmental impact of the brands they support. This is why integrating Green AI practices is so important, and we help businesses identify emerging sustainability trends and consumer demands.

If you are interested in learning more about Green AI and how it can benefit your business, contact us today at info@mm-eye.com or use the form below to book a consultation.

Consumer Sustainability Trends 2025

October 2024, by Ettie Etela

As we approach 2025, sustainability has already become a core focus for consumers. They are demanding more transparency, authenticity, and action from the brands they support. It is important for brands and businesses to understand these developing consumer behaviours to stay relevant.

At MM-Eye, our Say Do Sustainability Study (SDSS) continues to provide valuable insights into how consumers perceive sustainability efforts, helping brands understand and navigate this shifting landscape.

Key Consumer Sustainability Trends for 2025

Self-Sufficiency and Control
In 2025, consumers are increasingly taking sustainability into their own hands by embracing self-sufficient behaviours. From growing their own food to choosing products that help them reduce their carbon footprint, people are looking for brands that empower them to make sustainable choices. Brands that can support this shift toward self-sufficiency will be more likely to win over these environmentally conscious consumers​.

Through the upcoming SDSS Wave 3, we’ll explore how these trends influence consumer buying decisions and how brands can provide meaningful solutions that resonate with their audience’s sustainability goals​.

Trust and Transparency
As consumers become more aware of greenwashing, the demand for transparent, credible sustainability practices continues to rise. Consumers expect companies to follow through on their environmental commitments, and any discrepancy between what brands say and do is met with scepticism​.

Our SDSS Brand Index monitors how well brands are closing the “say-do” gap—whether their claims about sustainability match their actions. As part of Wave 3, we’ll be investigating how trust and transparency affect brand loyalty in 2025​.

Sustainable Packaging and Circularity
Packaging remains a key area of concern for consumers, and the demand for sustainable solutions will only increase in 2025. Consumers are prioritising brands that offer recyclable, compostable, or reusable packaging as well as products that embrace circular economy principles​.

SDSS Wave 3 will explore these packaging preferences more deeply and help brands better understand how to address consumer concerns about waste and resource efficiency​.

Technology-Driven Sustainability
Consumers are also turning to technology to help them make more sustainable choices. From apps that track personal carbon footprints to digital tools that recommend eco-friendly products, tech-driven solutions are becoming integral to the sustainability journey​.

SDSS  will provide insights into how consumers are leveraging these technologies, giving brands opportunities to engage with their audience in meaningful ways.

What This Means for Brands in 2025

The Say Do Sustainability Study is designed to track these consumer expectations and behaviours, offering brands key insights into how their sustainability strategies are perceived. SDSS Wave 3 will benchmark your brand’s performance and provide the actionable insights necessary to navigate this evolving landscape. Brands that prioritise transparency, innovation, and genuine engagement in sustainability will find themselves ahead of the curve in 2025.

Consumers are more focused than ever on holding brands accountable. As part of our SDSS Wave 3, we’re committed to helping brands understand these trends and align with consumer expectations. Brands can build stronger, more trusting relationships with their customers in the years to come by staying informed and responsive.

If you’re ready to take the next step in aligning your brand with consumer sustainability trends, contact us today at info@mm-eye.com or use the form below to book a consultation. Mor information about SDSS wave 3 below.