Diving into Sustainable Consuming: Your Essential Checklist

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Aug 17

As “underconsumption-core” is trending, now seems like the best time to talk about sustainable consuming. I can’t lie, this is a trend that I thoroughly enjoyed engaging with on my social media. All the different ideas for repurposing, reviving and decorating with. And the subtle VINTAGE flexes out there (I see you and I’m HERE for it).

Sustainable consuming is about leveraging your financial power to make choices that minimize environmental impact, support social equity, and promote economic health instead of giving your hard earned money to companies and corporations that don’t align with these values.

So where do you start? Don’t worry I compiled a short checklist of components of sustainable consuming below. This list will outline what you should be looking for in brands/products to help guide your purchase decisions. You may even find that you already are conscious of some or all of these things.

1. Look for brands that practice resource efficiency: This includes choosing items with minimal packaging (bonus points if its also reusable), better energy efficiency of their products, and longer lifespans of the product (who doesn’t love those old-reliable items that you only had to buy 1x!?)

2. Look for brands/products that reduce waste: These brands are reducing, reusing, and recycling. Prioritize these items that are recyclable or compostable while avoiding single-use products and disposable items items that just end up adding to our global waste. These brands are reducing their carbon footprint, making the commitment to ethical business practices and engaging in corporate social responsibility.

3. Look for ethical production process: This involves looking at the treatment of workers, fair trade practices, and animal welfare. Things like “cruelty free” or “vegan” products. Fair trade means farmers receive a fair price for their products, and the production meets specific environmental and labor standards. You may have also seen clothing brands advertise as fair-trade which ensures that workers are paid fair wages and work in safe conditions.

Here is a few fair trade companies you may already know and love: Patagonia, The Body Shop, Equal Exchange, Dr. Bronner’s, Ten Thousand Villages, Fair Trade USA

4. Consume products that reduce energy and water use: Choose products and practices that consume less energy and water. This can involve selecting energy-efficient appliances, using public transportation, and reducing water usage in daily activities. Supporting brands and companies that prioritize reduction of energy and water use ( going back to #2) in the production of their products is also a win.

5. Opt for local and seasonal products: This reduces YOUR carbon footprint by cutting down and sometimes eliminating pollution from transportation. It also stimulates and supports local economies. Stronger economy means more available funding for local/regional environmental initiatives. I really enjoy this part of sustainably living because eating locally grown foods in-season, in particular; nothing beats it!

6. Make sure the brand/product has receipts for their green practices: Look for certifications such as Energy Star, Fair Trade, or Organic, which indicate that products meet certain environmental and ethical standards.

Incorporating conscious consumption into your lifestyle involves more than just thoughtful shopping; it’s about creating a mindset of mindfulness. Reflect on the environmental and social implications of your choices and strive for a balance that aligns with your values.

Next time you’re about to make a purchase, take a moment to consider how it fits into the bigger picture of your life and the planet. By being mindful of your needs versus wants, and making intentional decisions, you’re not just shopping—you’re contributing to a more sustainable and equitable world.

By integrating these components into your buying habits, you can make a positive impact on the environment and society. Whether you’re discovering new vintage finds or supporting eco-conscious brands, every intentional choice contributes to a more sustainable future.

So next time you’re about to make a purchase, consult this checklist and think about how your choices align with sustainable values. It’s not just a trend; it’s a lifestyle that benefits both you and the planet. Happy conscious consuming! 🌿💚

“We can change the marketplace just by believing in something.”