Sustainable Consumerism

What is “sustainable consumerism”? Are globalization and capitalism positive or negative drivers in this phenomenon? What is greenwashing? Would you be willing to pay a premium for foods labeled “organic”, “local”, or “fair-trade”? Do you prefer to frequent mom and pop stores in downtown Ft. Myers or patronize chain stores at the Gulf Coast Town Center? What are the ramifications of your behaviors either way? Think holistically.

Sustainable consumerism is the purchasing of sustainable goods that are manufactured with the principles of environmental sustainability. I feel that globalization and capitalism are negative drivers in furthering sustainable consumerism in society. A focus on a local marketplace will help fuel the local economy, which in turn has many sustainable advantages such as: less packaging required for transportation, products do not have to travel long distances which results in less carbon emissions, and family-run farms who tend to be good stewards to their lands preservation. I already purchase organic, fair-trade foods when they have the alternative. These foods are fresh at the market, and seem to have a better quality of taste to them. Purchasing from "mom and pop" stores helps to support the local farmers and the local economy by also keeping jobs local. There are also fewer middleman in the process, and you are also able to find out more information about how your food is being grown from the source.