Melissa Hope Matlins

The pub-style taps at the new Green Depot store on the Bowery dispense dish soap, not beer, and consumers are sidling up to this “bar” in increasing numbers. According to IRI’s latest study, the growth in the popularity of sustainable products continues to trend upwards, ailing economy be damned. The report parses shoppers into eight different, curiously titled segments, based on their demographics, purchasing power and attitude towards premium pricing for green goods. While the habits of dedicated “Eco-centrics” haven’t changed much, the “Respectful Stewards” and “Proud Traditionalists” are stepping up their spending, even in these tough times. How to capitalize on this lone bright spot in the consumer-verse? “Understand core values across key consumer segments; align product assortment and merchandising programs accordingly,” in short – reduce, reuse, recycle and retail.

More info: Businesswire
Image via: Dave Pinter on Flickr

Update: More promising statistics from the Carbon Trust via UK’s Times Online