Consumer organisations worldwide monitor and are frequently consulted on developments in the public utilities and transport sectors. This is a complex area, given that higher prices or taxes on energy and water may restrict access to these essentials. Toxic chemicals have been a target of consumer campaigns for many years. Monitoring the enforcement of regulations Regulations to promote sustainable consumption are of little value unless they are effectively enforced. However, governments' capacity for such enforcement is often limited by lack of resources, by the sheer number of enterprises concerned and, sometimes, by corruption.
Consumer groups can play a useful role as unofficial monitors of regulations.
They can keep a watchful eye on companies and publicise any failures to observe legal requirements. Activities could include testing products to assess the validity of a company's environmental claims and legal actions against governments or companies to ensure that regulations are enforced. Direct action to encourage voluntary changes in producer behaviour Consumer groups can use a variety of tactics to bring pressure to bear on producers. Tightly focused consumer boycotts which pick up on a deeply felt public sentiment can gain wide support. Media exposure of bad practice can sometimes exert pressure on companies to move towards greater sustainability.