A Simple Guide to Making More Sustainable Choices as a Consumer

There are almost 7 billion of us on the planet, each making decisions on a daily basis that collectively have a huge effect on businesses and society. Companies provide products because they believe there will be, or is a demand for them. As a consumer, choosing to support the product that you believe is good sends a strong message to companies. Just as important as what you buy is what you choose not to buy. This can send an equally clear message.

Packaging

Look at the packaging. Is it over-packaged? Is it under- packaged? Can I reuse the packaging? Is it recyclable?

Location

Look at where the product is from. Is it produced locally or far way? Look at the store you are buying it from. Are you buying from a small independent store, a cooperative, a large store? What do you know about the sustainability policies of that store?

Essential

Do you really need the item? Can you live without it?

Alternative

Are there alternatives that are more sustainable? Can you buy the product in bulk or in refillable containers?

Story

What is the story of the product? What company produced it? What information is on the label about that company and what do these labels tell you about the product? What are the ingredients?

End of Life

If you want to know what the companies you buy from are doing in this area, or want them to provide more information or safer products, contact them and give them feedback.

Get in Touch

Interested in developing new innovative approaches to sustainability? Have an interesting approach you would like to share? I’d love to hear from you.

gweybrecht@thesustainablemba.com