And what does it mean for me?
“I’m just one person. I can’t make a difference.”
“It’s up to the government to solve our societal issues. Not me.”
“Big corporations are the cause of climate change. They should be the ones to solve it.”
These are some common explanations or excuses for not taking action for the environment, and there is some truth to them. It is true that those with greater influence or “power” should take more responsibility, but to wait for another entity to better your life is to die a silent death. Small acts performed by millions of people can transform the world, though conscious consumerism is no small act. Let’s talk about this phenomenon, what it really is, and how to practice it sustainably.
Conscious consumption means engaging in the economy while acknowledging the impact of your personal consumption on society and on the environment as a whole. This means being aware of how the products you are consuming are made and their ecological impact in manufacture, production and distribution. It also means being aware of the sustainable and ethical practices (or lack thereof) of the brands and organizations you buy from, and making the conscious decision to spend your money on products and businesses which practice sustainability.
Let’s put this theory into practice. There’s a popular fast food chain in the United States, and many of the company’s values are influenced by Christian religious beliefs. For years, this company donated to anti-LGBT organizations that promote discrimination, specifically against LGBT civil rights. Practicing conscious consumption means being aware of these values and actions of the organization, and how they negatively impact an already historically marginalized group, and not eating at their restaurants.
“But I’m just one person.” That’s true, and if every individual becomes informed when making purchases, as a collective we can create societal change.
“But the food/product/service is so good/cheap.” When you chose complacency in times of oppression, you choose the side of the oppressor.
The fact of the matter is, producers adhere to consumer demand. If we band together and avoid companies with unethical values and/or business practices, we can facilitate change from the ground-up. In the example provided above, for every dollar you spend at this restaurant, some of that money is being donated to a discriminatory organization. Whether you mean to or not, you are continuing to perpetuate the cycle - this is why conscious consumption is crucial.
So - what can you do about it?
Knowledge is power. Do some research on the brands and products you love and get a sense of their company values. If you find that a business you support doesn’t align with your values, there are plenty others out there. In our modern society, with the majority of knowledge available to mankind constantly at your fingertips, alternatives shouldn’t be too hard to find.
Vote with your dollars. Spend your money and time at an establishment/buying a good or service with sustainable and ethical business practice. Our dollars hold a lot of value - spend them wisely.
Inform your peers. Not in a preach-y way, but in a friendly, conversational way. This is a great way for you or your peer(s) to check your own bias and expand your knowledge. If a friend or colleague frequents a business that you know is unsustainable or unethical, talk to them about it and about conscious consumption.
Not sure if a company/organization has values that align with your own? Transparency is key - if it is difficult to find information on their values and/or sustainable practices, odds are there isn’t much to find.
What are some sustainable, ethical brands that you know and love? We want to hear about them! Contact us today and share your insights.
Want some more resources on changing your mindset? Check out our Mindset Library - feedback and recommendations welcome there as well.