Shopping ethically may seem like two words that don’t belong in the same sentence, but the need to become an ethical consumer is getting more important each day. We look at how you can make a difference just by being conscious of what you’re buying and spending your hard earned money on.
What is an ethical consumer?
‘Ethical consumption’ and ‘ethical consumer’ keep popping up in the media and many companies are trying to keep up with these new terms. Unfortunately these terms, which are important to help increase awareness and reduce the impact to the environment, has saturated what was a small and truthful market.
Bigger companies are trying to show that they are working on their sustainability, even when this may not be the case, and have jumped on the bandwagon causing confusion for us consumers.
The term “ethical consumer”, now used generically, was first popularised by the UK magazine Ethical Consumer, first published in 1989. Since then, as the issues with climate change and our environment become more well-researched and well known, this term has become more widely used.
What do we need to be aware of?
Consumers are becoming more aware of products tested on animals, workers in unethical working conditions, and materials and manufacturing processes which are detrimental to our environment.
We might not be vegan, but we care about the way animals are treated, and definitely don’t want products being tested on them. We want workers to be safe at work, and be paid a living wage so they can support and look after their own families. And we don’t want any of the processes when creating products to harm the environment. From the materials used, to potential chemicals in the manufacturing process, including run-off in surrounding areas and waterways.
Ethical consumers choose wisely when selecting the items they want to buy. They source out ethically made products that support small scale manufacturers and local artisans, using all natural materials and ingredients, protecting animals and also our environment.
What questions do we need to be asking?
These are some questions we can be asking before we buy;
- What can I do with the packaging? Is it a box that can be reused and its life extended to reduce its impact. Is it compostable and can returned to the earth?
- Where did this come from? Was it made or manufactured locally to reduce carbon emissions?
- How was it made? What processes were required to create the product, and were any of these processes detrimental to the environment or those who made it?
- What is this made of? Is it made of natural or organic ingredients?
- Who made this? If it’s made by someone else, were they treated ethically and fairly? Were they paid a living wage and work in safe conditions? If it’s made locally, are you supporting a small business and therefore a family able to live their own dream life?
Steps to take to become an ethical consumer.
At times it can be overwhelming with the amount of information out there, but by doing your own research and asking businesses directly, you will be able to better understand their values and processes. Those ‘greenwashing’ to make their processes appear more environmentally friendly than they are, will not be so open and truthful with you. Those doing the right thing won’t have anything to hide.
Unfortunately most businesses are profit focused, so will look at what’s going to make them more money, no matter the consequence. But there is a better way, and businesses are showing that you can make money, while producing sustainable products and give back to the environment at the same time.
By being critical and conscious of what we buy, we can reduce waste, pollution and improve the lives of workers.
What we spend our money on matters, so make it count.
Our Eco Directory shares the businesses who are showing that you can be successful and sustainable at the same time. Whether it’s a new beauty product, a pair of shoes or natural supplement, we want you to know about them! Check them out here.