We all have a conscious and none of us really want to have a negative social or environmental impact, right? But do we really ever consider the connection between the things we buy and the living world?
Every day we hear about climate change, poverty, starvation, disease, drought and pollution, are harassed to go ‘green’, be eco-friendly, biodegradable and sustainable all while having consumerism and product placement choke us and drive us a little crazy. We can’t help but turn-off!
A sense of hopelessness prevails among us in the modern world because we don’t want to give up the things in life that we consume but we also don’t want to be responsible for the consumption the earth!
We must take responsibility for the power we have as consumers and acknowledge that the little things, we as individuals can do, have a worldwide impact. This is all part of making an informed, empowered choice and paves the way for the betterment of our life and the lives of others.
Don’t sweat the big stuff; take charge of the small, simple things we all can do to make a difference.
All consumer products have an environmental impact and it is up to us, as consumers, to acknowledge these connections and make informed choices. We don’t have to become overwhelmed, more often than not a product we choose won’t be perfect but it can be better!
Learn to acknowledge that the toilet tissue in our bathrooms is probably produced unsustainably, the cosmetics we buy are often tested on animals and that the coffee in our pantry may contribute to deforestation and the exploitation of peoples around the world. Then we can acknowledge that there are real alternatives readily available and that we can make a difference by choosing not to contribute to these negative practices.
It is not difficult to make a better choice, once we understand the issues and that our choices can make a difference, it becomes a celebration of our ability to act positively and make a real change for the better.
It is easy to achieve a better understanding and free ourselves from many of the negative implications of a consumer lifestyle. We purchase products based on different principals, be it need or impulse. An ability to acknowledge the difference, as well as assess the potential negative impact of the product, is the basis of shopping with a conscience.
Whether we are buying a few groceries, a new car or a luxury item simply remember to:
- Understand the issues
- Plan ahead, make a list and stick to it
- Take time to be informed about the different options available
- And make these new habits a lasting change
Acknowledge that each choice for the better makes a real difference and spread the word!
Consumerism is part of modern life, a fundamental aspect of western society and an inescapable force in most of our lives. We can however, be positive consumers, and use our buying power to influence the effects consumerism has on the living planet.
More information @
Environmental Justice Foundation
Related posts:
- A piece of consumer pie, w/ a little humble topping : Positive Consumer Behaviour
- Balance and Consequence : Our Modern Consumer Lifestyle
- “I hear what you’re saying but…” : overcoming that little voice of doubt and haste
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"I am only one, but still I am one. I cannot do everything, but still I can do something. And because I cannot do everything I will not refuse to do the something that I can do." ~Hellen Keller
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Yet when I focus on the bad things then I forget the good things.
And good things abound : ) Let it not be a focus but an acknowledgement. We need to move forward, positive and empowered, not be bogged down and disheartened with the negatives!