Blog Entry #12 Sustainable Consumerism

Sustainable consumerism"Sustainability as a principle is characterised by the interplay of three dimensions: ecology, economy and social... The ecological dimension of sustainability is given preference in connection to the behaviour of consumers. Economic development and welfare are only possible in the long-term within a predetermined framework that identifies nature as the foundation of life. Conversely economic and social aspects also serve for the "do ability" of ecology: ecological production and consumerism can only be realised if they are attainable for the consumer... and when consumerism and production take place under acceptable social conditions."[Source: Deutscher Bundestag (Ed.), final report from the Enquete Commission "Globalisation of the World Economy", p. 381 Note 119, Online Version]

To consume sustainably is to reuse, recycle, renew and to use as little as possible, in an environmentally friendly way.  I think that there are a lot of issues with this phrase, as to consume isn't really being sustainable at all.  I feel that globalization and capitalism are negative drivers in this phenomenon, as there is a lot of 'greenwashing' going on with companies and business.  Greenwashing makes people think they are doing something good for the environment, when, in fact, they are not.  An example is the placard in hotel bathrooms stating to hang your towel and use it again.  That has not been proven to save anything, but makes people feel they are doing something.  Putting photos of nice, beautiful trees on a environmentally dangerous substance is another example.  PR companines use greenwashing to make consumers feel they are being environmentally conservative, when, actually, what they are doing could be causing more harm than good. 

I am not always willing to pay more for foods labeled 'organic', 'local, or 'fair trade' because there is corruption at all levels.  Organic, as I have learned, is not healthier or more nutritious.  Local food could be grown 'locally' on a huge, wasteful farm.  "Fair trade' items make people feel good to buy, as they feel they are helping out a poorer country and economy, but there is corruption within the fair trade business.  People must be careful. I think it's better to try to buy from local farmer's markets and vegteable stands, to be mindful of waste, and to use what you buy, and to grow your own food! 

I prefer to frequent locally owned stores if possible.  I enjoy shopping in large shopping centers, but I know the mark up on items is very high, and I think that I tend to spend more money in shopping malls.  In smaller, mom and pop stores, you get better customer service, you know your money is going into the local economy, and you are less likely to impluse buy due to showy marketing.  I think it is much better to shop in local stores if possible.  Large stores, like WalMart, are putting the smaller locally owned stores out of business, and are buying products made in third world countries, often by children and poorly paid workers.  I think we should all be mindful of where the prodcuts we buy are made, and make choices based upon ethical and economic value.