“Consumption is a big challenge for us as humans–we need, we want lots of things…The vast majority of products end up in landfills, and over 60 % of fabric fibers are synthetics derived from fossils fuels so they don’t decay.” Designer Christian Siriano
SO, How can we become better consumers? We have incredible power with our consumer dollars. How can we use that power wisely? Why would you reinforce corporate greed with your purchases? Everyone wants to save money, but you are not saving money when you purchase lots of cheap things that will end up in the land fill next year!
Lots of environmental repair is needed, and I hope you will join me to help in 2021 and resolve to be a better consumer. Look at your habits and just make one change. See reading list below.
One of the most important forms of power we have is our ability to decide where and how we spend our money. When you pump LESS gas, and purchase less meat you’re saying something. When you contact businesses about their extreme plastic packaging, you’re doing something. When you shop local, support local farms and climate-smart brands, you’re making a difference by revealing a growing market for whom business as usual will not cut it. At our house we only make purchases at places that pay a minimum wage. If we can use our dollars to shop for quality, support local, green, and homegrown businesses. We can keep dollars in our own communities and make a statement. Buying less makes a statement too.
The thought of having plastic microfibers in the food I consume stirs me to reduce my plastic consumption and motivates me to become aware of my plastic and other unsustainable purchases.
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Start working on one thing and go from there. You will not be perfect, but you can make a difference! Maybe you can start with an alternative to dryer sheets and hand wipes. I just discovered somethings I purchased during the pandemic are in #7 plastic(not recyclable). I’m contacting these companies, and ending my #7 plastic purchases! Education and awareness make such a difference. I hope the reading list below will heighten your awareness also!
Reading list:
Say no to fast fashion and purchase items that will last a long time
Toxic chemicals in single-use plastics are harming human health | U.S. PIRG
Do You Want to Buy Less Stuff? Three People Tell Us How – The New York Times (nytimes.com)
https://bigthink.com/personal-growth/buy-less-stuff
Beginner’s Guide to Minimalism – Going Zero Waste
Six Eco-Friendly Pledges for 2021 – EcoWatch
New Year’s Resolutions for the Planet – The New York Times (nytimes.com)
9 New Years’ Climate Resolutions To Keep For 2021, According To Experts (forbes.com)
In Focus: We know the real cost of fast fashion, so why do we buy it? | Metro News
Lake Michigan plastic pollution poses ecological and social threats (https_dailynorthwestern.com)
Substitutes For Dryer Sheets | Cleancult
My ten tips for Health4earth holiday shopping:
Purchase clothing made from natural fibers – synthetic fibers like polyester are made from plastic. Opt for alternatives to dryer sheets for your laundry.
Health4earth 