Conscious Consumerism

Shopping is generally considered a mindless task that serves no purpose other than achieving material satisfaction. However, shopping, whether it be for food, clothing, cosmetics, or any other product, is a highly impactful act that has implications beyond just one’s purchase. Behind every product there is a company, a creator, and a process and being aware of these more obscure aspects is key to becoming a conscious consumer. Conscious consumerism is the act of thinking critically about one’s purchases and considering the effects your investments have on the environment, economies, and in the lives of others. This sophisticated form of consumerism involves slightly more effort on the part of the purchaser but that extra attention to detail manifests itself in a more valuable and meaningful shopping experience.

1. Buy Bulk

When I step foot in a food coop or supermarket with a designated organic area, I immediately gravitate for the bulk section. This section not only has a plethora of nutritious and delicious snack foods, such as cashews, dark chocolate, and dried fruit, but also everything is often self-served, ensuring that customers take only what they need or want rather than paying for extra product they won’t use. In addition, being able to adjust the quantity of product to my liking makes me personally feel more comfortable trying new foods. Although not necessarily “cheap”, bulk foods tend to be slightly to significantly less expensive than the same goods in their pre-packed form and especially in food coops, the products will also often have labels educating customers as to where and how the food was produced.  

2. Quality Over Quantity 
In a culture that greatly values instant gratification and excess wealth, it is simple to become mesmerized by unnecessarily extravagant buying habits. However, valuing the quality of an item is a great way to re-evaluate the manner in which you buy clothing, food, and other goods. Although springing for the cheapest pair of jeans at the mall may seem an easy solution to fulfilling one’s consumer desires, try instead to put more time into researching different options and in doing so, prioritizing the quality of a product’s materials, assembly, and the reputation the product’s brand. Companies with strong social missions or that express added emphasis towards employees’ wellbeing are beneficial alternatives in place of supporting companies whose sole purpose is to generate revenue.

3. Buy Local

When it comes to shopping, look no further than your local area. This might mean directing your business to a locally owned coffee shop instead of a popular chain or maybe taking the time to browse through a local boutique in search of a truly unique gift. Regardless, community support is essential to independent business’ success and although individuals often assume local shops to be ridiculously expensive, this is certainly not always the case. If there is a difference in cost, consider the benefits of your support in the existence and preservation of small, local businesses. Unlike the majority of chain stores or commercial eateries, small businesses operate to serve the needs of their local patrons and as such, are more heavily invested in the vitality of the communities in which they operate. Involvement both on the side of small businesses as well as community members helps to drive mutual success and in effect, the creation of a more stable local economy.

Be well 

- Alexis, Guest Blogger