How to become a Responsible Consumer
By: Florian Kuhn
Tags: Climate Change, Consumerism, Sustainability, Responsibility

How to become a Responsible Consumer

Climate change everywhere! Finally…

More than 11.000 experts reunited to publish an article on BioScience that can be understood as a climate emergency: “ Scientists have a moral obligation to clearly warn humanity of any catastrophic threat […]”

Unfortunately, still not enough proof for certain politicians. But this post is not dedicated to questionable politics but rather to our common future. The scientists conclude that the plans of the Paris Climate Agreement are unsatisfactory.

And here is where your responsibility comes into play. As a consumer, you have the opportunity to shift buying habits towards sustainability.

Therefore, consumers have a moral obligation, too — especially those contemporaries with their hands on the light switch and their feet on the gas pedal.

I know green products cost more. I know you run on a tight budget. I know you are already trying. But I also know that you can still improve.

So, where do we start?

1. First, cut off plastic products. Several countries already banned single-use plastics. So can you. And even more, spread the message. When getting offered a plastic bag, not only resist by proudly presenting your reusable bag but additionally reply with a friendly smile: “No, thanks. There is already too much on our planet.” You might trigger a change of behavior.

2. Pay close attention to your daily products. Toothbrush, Shampoo, water bottle … Try out bamboo alternatives and other solutions. You might even consider an E-Reader instead of persisting on hard-cover books. Observe the sustainability of your everyday products and research improvements. Also, notice daily habits. Details such as opening the water tap slightly instead of fully can make a tremendous difference.

3. Food & Beverages: Resist Meat. Buy local. Buy unpacked. And if this is not in your budget, then check out food-sharing-initiatives and become a food saver. Maybe you even want to engage in dumpster-activities. And take coffee to stay! FYI: There are also reusable coffee filters if you cannot get enough of the brown fuel.

4. Unplug your devices and use green energy. Recharge batteries (no metaphor). Try LED light bulbs and turn out the light if you leave the room. Also, finally, get over it and take a cold shower. You know the benefits.

5. Buy second hand. You do not only save money, but you also tend to get unique products. Very applicable for clothes and electronics. Instead of only buying, you might also offer your dusty products and make someone else happy.

6. Travel locally. I know you are a curious person, but does it really have to be this far-off island? Most long-distance flights already extend your ecological footprint. Get to know your local environment. I am sure you will find some quality motives for your Christmas cards close by.

Excited to measure your ecological footprint? Then take the exam: https://www.footprintcalculator.org/

If you are struggling to become more sustainable, go ahead and ask your grandmother for advice. Back in the days, sustainability was not a topic of concern but their generation had a comparably low ecological footprint since local food was the standard, access to electricity limited, and flights prohibitively expensive.

Wrapping up, climate change is the responsibility of everyone.

Sure, some do have a more significant impact, some less. Nonetheless, we are all being in the same boat. Let’s take it as an opportunity to grow together and unfold unknown potentials. Be mindful of your consumption, and don’t forget that details matter.

Join our responsible rebellion and be part of our community.