INTRODUCTION
We all want clean air and water, good jobs and a better future for our children. unfortunately, that's not what we tell big corporations when we go shopping. Instead, we tell them to keep doing what they're doing.
For example, when we buy "virgin" paper (paper made directly from trees), we tell paper companies that it's ok to cut down our old
growth forests. If instead, we buy recycled paper (paper made from paper), we're telling companies that we do mind. To earn our business, they'll have to offer forest-friendly alternatives.
This is an example of "responsible consumption". As consumers, we have incredible
power over corporations. They want our money, and they'll do whatever it takes
to get it. All we have to do is tell them what we want through our purchases.
In fact, recycled paper is proof that this works. Years ago, few large stores carried it, so small mail order companies filled the demand. Back then, the paper was expensive, discolored and degraded quickly. People bought it anyway.
The big companies took notice. They began working on their own versions. Thanks to competition, the price went down and the quality went up. Nowadays, recycled paper is pretty much indistinguishable from virgin paper, and you can find it almost anywhere.
EASIER THAN YOU THINK
Let's assume for a moment that we've convinced you to buy recycled paper. Good job! Seriously! Even if you never think about responsible consumption again, you've done something positive that you wouldn't have otherwise done.
That's the key. Every step, no matter how small, is a step in the right direction.
If and when you're ready to take a second step, try this... Next time you go to the store, spend just 3 minutes rethinking a single choice.
For example, let's say that you'll be buying carrots. One brand is imported from out of the country. Another brand is grown locally. Yet another brand is grown organically, but is from a different region.
If you buy the locally-grown carrots, you're saying that you support your local economy. If you buy the organically grown carrots, you're saying that you won't accept pesticides on your food. The only benefit that the imported carrots might offer is a slightly lower price.
Your choice will depend on
what's most important to you. In that sense, responsible consumption could
also be called "values-based spending".
CHEAPER THAN YOU THINK
Some choices are more expensive. Some are less expensive!
For example, save used plastic grocery bags and large pet food bags, and use them instead of trash bags. Save rags and use them instead of paper towels. Cut up used paper that has a blank side, and use it to make notepads instead buying new ones.
When alkaline batteries die, replace them with nickel metal hydride batteries (NiMH) and a charger. These last a long, long time, which saves money over disposable alkalines.
Cloth napkins cost more upfront, but save money over time. The same goes for buying a water purifier instead of bottled water, or buying commonly used items in bulk, which also saves on gas.
ALL THE HELP YOU NEED
Sometimes, it's tough to decide which product is best. To make things easier,
print out this list and take it with you when you go shopping:
RESPONSIBLE CONSUMPTION SELLING POINTS
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contains recycled material
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can be recycled
- doesn't have excess packaging
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is non-toxic and/or biodegradable
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is of good quality & lasts a long time
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reduces consumption of other materials
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reduces consumption of water and/or electricity
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keeps money & jobs in the community
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is made by fairly-compensated workers
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uses organic meats,
produce & other ingredients
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has a good Energy Star rating
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is Green Seal certified
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is Forest Stewardship Council certified
You can also find products that meet these criteria in the National
Green Pages. They've done all the work for you!
To learn more about responsible consumption, visit ResponsibleConsumption.com.
