World Consumer Rights Day is celebrated annually on March 15. It was created to protect and remember consumer rights. The date was established in 1962 by US President John Kennedy as a way to protect the interests of American consumers.
It is important that consumers are increasingly aware of their purchases. A product or service must minimize the use of natural resources, toxic materials, reduce pollutant emissions and waste generation.
Conscious consumption means contributing to sustainability and the future of future generations. Everyone can increase their positive impacts and reduce the negative ones caused by excessive and unconscious consumption.
Sustainable Development Goal 12 states: “Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns.” SDG 12 targets include halving per capita global food waste; and substantially reducing waste generation through prevention, reduction, recycling and reuse.
5 tips from CEBDS for conscious consumption:
- Before purchasing, carefully evaluate your needs. Avoid making a purchase just because the promotion seems attractive;
- Don’t buy something new if you can fix what you already have. Also consider buying second-hand products that are in good condition or still have a medium to long lifespan;
- Avoid illegal deforestation: when buying furniture, check if the wood is certified;
- Research and try to buy from brands and companies that are transparent in their production processes and that invest in technologies to reduce environmental impacts, such as GHG emissions and use of water resources;
- Take eco-bags when you go shopping and, whenever possible, reject non-recyclable plastic bags.
Challenging behaviors for conscious consumption
To encourage reflection on conscious attitudes in life attitudes and values, Akatu, carried out a survey, which presents the Conscious Consumption Test (TCC), which involves 13 challenging behaviors to achieve this lifestyle:
- Read labels carefully before purchasing any product;
- Ask for a receipt (receipt) when you go shopping, even if the supplier does not offer one spontaneously;
- Separate household waste (garbage) for recycling, even if there is no selective collection;
- Use the back of the paper whenever possible;
- Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth;
- Wait for food to cool before storing it in the refrigerator;
- Avoid leaving lights on in unoccupied rooms;
- Turn off electronic devices when not in use;
- Share the information you learn about companies and products with as many people as possible;
- Plan food purchases;
- Plan your clothing purchases;
- Choose to buy products made from recycled materials;
- Choose to buy organic products.
