#105 Supporting Conscious Businesses
Imagine a planet where every business operates humanely, consciously, sustainably, and philanthropically – perpetually giving back a percentage of its profits to enhance the quality of life in communities where it does business. This is possible with a collective shift into mindful consumption. As awareness around conscious consumerism grows, individuals are realizing the importance of spending their money with companies that are operating with earth-centered values. By exclusively patronizing the companies who support this level of consciousness, we can Heal The Planet.
Consumption is responsible for the biggest human impact on the environment. As consumption grows rapidly, the planet is showing us how unsustainable our consumer behavior is. The products we buy almost always utilize natural resources and/or energy to be produced. By taking a mindful approach to the way we spend our money, we choose to vote for a more sustainable and abundant planet. As a consumer, YOU hold all the power. We can no longer rely on our government, or other agencies, to solve existential environmental problems. We have to align our lifestyles with the type of planet we envision.
Consumption Facts:
Four-fifths of the environmental impact of consumerism comes not from direct behaviors like driving cars or taking long showers, but rather from sources further down our products’ supply chains. The amount of water that goes into a hamburger or frozen pizza, for example, proved much more significant than showering and dishwashing habits.
A new study published in the Journal of Industrial Ecology shows that the stuff we consume is responsible for up to 60 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions and between 50 and 80 percent of total land, material, and water use.
The U.S. has the highest per capita emissions rate with 18.6 tons of CO2.
U.S. landfills received over 11 million tons of textiles (clothing) last year.
Americans waste more than $161 billion each year on food.
60% of millennials (aged 22-35) say they would pay extra for eco-friendly or sustainable products.
55% of Gen X (aged 36-54) and 46% of baby boomers (aged 55-64) say they would pay extra for eco-friendly or sustainable products.
Should the global population reach 9.6 billion by 2050, the equivalent of almost three planets could be required to provide the natural resources needed to sustain current lifestyles.
How Can I Make An Impact ?
Tier 1: Global Goodness
Visit our sister site www.theconsciousbuyer.com where you can view over 600 conscious companies that are committed to protecting our planet.
Reduce, Reduce, Reduce.
Ask yourself “Do I need this, or it is simply something I want?” Many times our purchasing impulses can be reduced by simply checking in with ourselves
Tier 2: Planet Protector
All of Action 1
Buy quality when you can. Quality items last longer, allowing you to reduce future purchases.
Commit to Organic! From clothing and food to household items and beauty products, buying organic ensures your items, and our planet are not overburdened with pesticides.
Tier 3: Earth Angel
All of Action 1 & 2
Instead of trying to research every single company you financially support, which can be overwhelming to the point of apathy, focus on where you spend your money most.
Go to Project Just to see where the companies you support stand on labor, sustainability and waste issues.
If you want to get to the bottom of your carbon footprint, visit the E.P.A.’s CarbonFootprintCalculator.
