Responsible consumption: guidelines for beginners
Responsible consumption: guidelines for beginners
With the growing knowledge about the negative effects that our consumer -oriented lifestyle has on the environment, more and more people recognize the need and value of responsible consumption. This guide is aimed at beginners who want to do exactly this by making more sustainable decisions in their daily life.
What does responsible consumption mean?
Responsible consumption, also known as sustainable consumption, refers to the purchase and use of products and services that have little negative effects on the environment, promote social justice and at the same time financially viable. It is closely linked to the idea of sustainable development that meets the needs of the present without affecting the ability of future generations to meet your own needs (report by the World Commission for the Environment and Development, 1987)
basic principles of responsible consumption
A responsible consumption is about compliance with certain basic principles:
- resource efficiency : use resources in the most efficient way and minimize.
- fair trade : support products and services based on fair working conditions and just remuneration.
- durable products : prefer products that are designed for longevity to extend their life cycle and minimize waste.
- Local purchase : Buy locally if possible to reduce transport emissions and support local management.
- reuse and recycling : wherever possible, use objects again or dispose of it in a way that enables reuse or recycling.
How can you consume more responsibly?
The transition to a responsible consumption pattern is a process that requires time, patience and commitment. In the following, some practical strategies for implementation are presented.
buy less and consciously
The first step towards a responsible consumption is to buy less and buy with careful. A basic rule here is to only buy what you really need. Before every purchase, ask yourself the question: "Do I really need that?" This can help to avoid spontaneous and unnecessary purchases.
Search for alternative products
inquire about alternative products before making a purchase decision. Experiments to choose products made from sustainable materials, are produced locally and are produced under fair working conditions.
dispose of your garbage properly
Correct waste separation is another important aspect of responsible consumption. By sorting your garbage and disposing correctly, you contribute to the fact that valuable materials can be reused or recycled and less new resources are needed.
sustainable diet
The way we eat has a significant impact on the environment. A sustainable diet contributes to a responsible consumption.
buy
locally and seasonally
The purchase of locally and seasonally produced food helps to reduce transport emissions and support local farmers and producers. In addition, seasonal products are often fresher and more nutrient.
reduce food waste
throw away as few foods as possible. Plan your meals in advance, keep food and use remnants.
Choose plant -based foods
The production of animal products is often associated with high energy and water consumption as well as high greenhouse gas emissions. By moving to more plant -based foods or reducing meat consumption, you can reduce your ecological footprint.
sustainable consumption in other areas of life
In addition to food, there are several other areas in which you can make your consumption more sustainable.
clothing
When buying clothes, you can switch to fairly manufactured and sustainable clothing workshops. It is also helpful to buy high -quality and durable items of clothing and use them as long as possible. In addition, buying used clothing or swapping clothes with friends and family can help reduce the need for new clothing.
electronics
For electronic devices, it makes sense to choose long -lasting devices and use them as long as possible. If a device breaks, try to repair it before you buy a new one.
conclusion
Responsible consumption is an important step on the way to a more sustainable and fairer world. By changing our purchase habits, consuming less and using our resources more efficiently, we can make a difference. It may seem complex and overwhelming at first, but with a little practice and patience it becomes an integral part of our life. Remember that every little change counts and you have a positive impact with every conscious purchase.