Mindful Consumption can Save the Planet. Here's How.
In today’s world, we are constantly being flooded with choices and encouraged to buy more. Social media feeds contain more advertisements than posts, constantly prodding us to purchase the newest jacket on the market or the face cream that’s going to make us look a fraction of our age.
Have we stopped to think if we actually need most of these products? Are we being subject to a society that forces us to do more, when we might not feel the need to be?
And importantly though, what if the solution is to do less, but to do it mindfully?
Simply put, mindful consumption focuses on quality over quantity. It is about being mindful about the intention with which we buy, use and consume. It aims to slow down and make thoughtful choices, all the while prodding us to consider the impact of our actions on the environment.
Why do we need to consume mindfully?
When we adopt a slower, more mindful approach to consumption, we begin to notice how our choices have a ripple effect on the world. Every product we purchase has an environmental footprint, from the resources used to make it to the packaging and the waste.
In being more intentional, we can drastically reduce unnecessary waste, limit our dependence on harmful production processes and conserve our resources.
What are the effects of mindful consumption?
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Conserves Resources
The more we buy, the more resources are used up. Resources such as water, energy or raw materials are used in the production process, and we typically do not see it. It’s a hidden environmental cost. By slowing down and choosing products that are responsibly made and long lasting, we reduce the demand for resources and minimise our ecological footprint.
By thinking twice about whether we really need something, mindful consumption encourages us to purchase only what we truly need. By focussing on quality, we’re less likely to purchase disposable or single-use items that usually end up in landfills.
When we take the time to make thoughtful purchasing decisions, we invariably support companies that prioritise sustainability, ethical sourcing and eco-friendly practices. This creates a shift in the market, encouraging businesses to adopt greener practices.
Mindful consumption is at the end of the day about the environment and the people. By choosing from ethical brands, you are supporting organisations that uphold fair labour practices, use cruelty free ingredients, have a green supply chain and commit to transparency.
How can you engage in mindful consumption?
Mindful consumption is not daunting at all, here are some simple ways to start practicing it in your daily life
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Purchase Mindfully, Buy Less: Prioritise items that you truly need and think twice before impulsively purchasing something. Buy items that are built to last
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Support Sustainable Brands: Looks for brands that align with your values, such as those that use eco-friendly packaging, support local communities through employment opportunities and use naturally derived ingredients
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Reusability is the key to the game: Invest in reusables, which you can use infinitely and also pass along through generations
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Quality > Quantity: Purchase well made, long lasting products that have a smaller environmental footprint over time
At the end of the day, mindful consumption is about being aware of our choices and their impact on the world around us. When we slow down and buy less, we end up buying better, therefore significantly reducing our environmental impact.
Going slow isn’t just great for the environment, but it’s great for us too! It nudges us to think about what truly matters and be more intentional with how we live. The next you’re out shopping, take a minute and ask yourself: “Do I really need this? Will it affect the planet?” And you will have all the answers you need to consume mindfully.