a. What are the characteristics of a “responsible consumer”? Explain.
Responsible consumers should be aware of what is in the products they are buying, where materials are coming from, and generally how the way things are produced impact the environment. Small changes like buying local produce, switching to reusable bags, buying refillable or reusable products instead of disposable ones, and not buying in excess are relatively easy ways for consumers to become more responsible. In addition, using fewer resources by doing things like taking shorter showers, turning lights off when leaving rooms, and closing doors to reduce heating or cooling energy waste are things responsible consumers do to try and reduce unnecessary consumption.
b. What do you buy on a regular basis: daily, twice a week, once a week, once a month, less?
I usually buy groceries and household necessities once a week, get food or coffee from out twice a week, Once every couple of months I will usually buy a few new articles of clothing as they wear out. I buy medical supplies on a monthly basis, and those are shipped to my house. Every couple of years, I buy new technology. I also will buy materials to fuel my hobbies- yarn, hiking gear, cooking supplies, etc. every few months.
c. How are your purchases divided between online shopping (local, abroad, shipped by air or by sea) and in-store shopping? For in-store shopping, how do you get to the store? By foot, car, public transport?
I would say I buy 60% of what I need online and 40% in store. I buy most food products, some clothing, and necessary household items (like cleaning supplies) in store, whereas I buy technology, books, some clothing, medical supplies, etc. online. I usually get to stores by driving, but will walk if it is less than about a mile and I know I am not buying a large quantity of things.
d. What is important to you when choosing a product?
I think first and foremost is functionality because I typically only buy products that I need, such as food and medical supplies. When I have the choice, I much prefer to buy items that are more sustainably and ethically produced both in an environmental and in a worker-treatment sense. I also prefer to choose products that are produced more locally if possible to support small businesses and save money on transportation costs.
e. Can you take into consideration the end of use already at the time of purchase? If so, in what form?
Yes, you can consider if the materials in the product you are buying are reusable or recyclable or part of a re-uptake program. You can minimize the waste you create by planning to use refillable products or coming up with ways to repurpose containers or remaining waste when you are
f. How can you become a more responsible consumer?
By buying refillable containers, going thrifting for clothes, buying produce locally (farmer’s markets!), increasing your amount of recycling or returning packaging through the correct channels, taking shorter showers, turning off lights, and adjusting the thermostat to the optimal temperature given the outside temperature.