Conscious Consumption: It's time to reassess our consumption habits to create a more sustainable future 2024-01-29 That we in the Western world overconsume is not news. In fact, we Swedes consume as if we had 4.2 Earths, and our economy is only 3.4% circular. * We need to significantly reduce our shopping and reevaluate our consumption to achieve global goals. Through inspiration, knowledge, tips, and advice, the Conscious Consumption Association provides concrete information that motivates rather than dictates - all with the aim of encouraging us Swedes to make more thoughtful consumption decisions. Jennie Grute is the Secretary-General of Conscious Consumption, and we asked the question of what conscious consumption actually means? An item of clothing is used on average 7-8 times, a power drill is used for 13 minutes during its lifetime, and only in Sweden, we have about 20-25 million unused mobile phones in our homes, yet we continue to buy new ones. Surveys show that Sweden's economy is only 3.4% circular, and the remaining 96% of the resources consumed come from virgin sources. This highlights how unsustainable consumption is today, says Jennie Grute of the Conscious Consumption Association. It is a natural part of life that we must eat, commute to and from work, buy new shoes when the old ones are unusable, etc. What Conscious Consumption is trying to achieve is to address overconsumption, which cannot continue as it does today. The association aims to achieve a circular planet, a world based on a circular economy where consumers are called 'circlers.' As a circler, you take responsibility for sustainable development through a conscious lifestyle. You see yourself as a user rather than an owner. In this way, more people can live better within the planet's resources. A question to ask oneself, as Jennie Grute suggests, is whether the product one intends to buy is something one truly "needs" or just something one wants, i.e., a "want-need." It is difficult to be a consumer today A significant responsibility is placed on the average person. As a consumer, you need to be aware of eco-labels, certifications, content, production, and manufacturing. Many times, consumers end up in the hands of marketers and have to rely on brands to deliver on their promises. Inflation and high food prices also mean less money in the wallet, and not everyone has the same opportunities to choose the more expensive ecological or environmentally friendly product first. Conscious Consumption, therefore, encourages reflection on the need for new production. - There are so many alternatives to linear consumption; today you can rent, borrow, share, or buy second-hand to a much greater extent instead of just buying new. We see a strong trend in increased awareness, where second-hand shopping, in particular, is where it is most noticeable. But we also need to boost borrowing, sharing, repairing, and repairing. And if we stop overconsuming, we will also have more money in our wallets, says Jennie. Conscious Consumption bases its work on research in consumption and behavioral science. Through concrete information and engaging activities, they inspire members to make thoughtful consumption decisions. The association also acts as a lecturer and workshop leader for companies striving to educate their employees in a sustainable lifestyle. Collaborations are welcome - We always see opportunities to collaborate in various ways with other relevant projects, initiatives, and individuals in the consumption and sustainability movement. This aligns with goal 17 of Agenda 2030 - "implementation and global partnership," which is close to our hearts. We believe in lifting each other up. By highlighting good initiatives, it benefits both ourselves and the planet in the long run, says Jennie Grute. Conscious Consumption will participate in the Nordic Sustainability Expo's stage program on the theme of sustainable consumption. If you or your company are interested in collaboration, please contact the association. For more information, visit www.medvetenkonsumtion.se *Sources: Naturskyddsföreningen and Cradlenet