Sustainable Shopping & How to Break the Habit of a Lifetime
Going a month without buying something new may seem like a huge challenge in our consumer-driven society, but it’s a task worth considering. The War on Waste TV series and podcast, offers valuable insights into the environmental and social impacts of our high levels of consumption. Let’s explore why this challenge could be hard and how sustainable shopping can surprisingly become easier with a few simple adjustments.
Firstly, the difficulty lies in our ingrained consumer mindset. We live in a world that constantly bombards us with advertisements, tempting us to buy the latest gadgets, fashion, and more. FOMO can be overpowering, making it challenging to resist the urge to purchase something new. Additionally, convenience plays a significant role. Online shopping, one-click purchases, and fast fashion make it effortless to buy on impulse.
On top of this, our emotional connection with shopping can make it difficult to break the cycle. Retail therapy is a real phenomenon, and for many, buying something new provides a sense of pleasure and comfort. It’s a coping mechanism for stress or boredom, which can make abstaining from shopping challenging.
On the other hand, The War on Waste offers strategies to deal with our seemingly inbuilt consumerism. If you haven’t seen it – catch it on iView, the series and podcast emphasize the environmental consequences of our over consumption. When we buy something new, we often overlook the resources, energy, and waste associated with its production and transportation. The show educates us about the impact of disposable fashion, single-use plastics, food and electronic waste on our planet.
To make the challenge easier, try out these sustainable shopping practices:
- Shop Secondhand:
Thrift stores and online platforms for secondhand goods offer a wide variety of items that are still in excellent condition. There are many specialty stores that offer pre-loved designer brands. Embrace pre-loved items to satisfy your shopping cravings without contributing to excess waste. - Repair and Reuse:
Instead of discarding items at the first sign of wear and tear, learn to repair and upcycle. This not only saves money but also reduces waste. - Borrow or Share:
Consider borrowing items you only need temporarily, like tools or books, from friends or neighbors. Sharing resources reduces the demand for new purchases. - Support Sustainable Brands:
When you do need to buy something new, choose companies that prioritise sustainability and ethical production practices. - Practice Mindful Consumption:
Before making a purchase, ask yourself if you genuinely need it or if it’s just a fleeting desire. Practicing mindfulness can help curb impulsive spending.
Going a month without buying something new might initially feel like a challenge, but it can be very rewarding for your bank balance as well as embracing the principles of sustainability and mindful living. As we saw in The War on Waste, small changes in our buying habits can have a significant positive impacts on our environment. By being more conscious of our choices, we can reduce waste, save money, and contribute to a healthier planet while still enjoying the pleasures of life. So, let’s take on this challenge with enthusiasm.
Featured Image: Harry Cunningham, Unsplash, Perth WA.
If you like this then you’ll love to read: Who to Follow to Help You Live More Sustainably
