Your Consumer Responsibilities Responsible shopping in a globalised world
Whichever way we choose to spend our money, we are influencing the world around us. Everyone has responsibilities. The following guidelines will help you to be a responsible consumer: Know your values. Ask yourself what is important to you and what you value. Learn about the issues that are important to you. Ask yourself if your shopping choices support these values and help to make the world a better place. If not, then look for alternative brands to support. When you find a better product or service, share the good news and let others know. Be aware of the story behind the product. Price and quality should not be the only criteria when purchasing goods. The story of the product, where the raw materials came from, who made it, how it was made and its impact on the environment are also important considerations. Read the product labels. What are the ingredients? What impact does making and buying this product have on the environment? Is it likely that child labour was involved in making it? Is it a trustworthy company? Is the business selling it compatible with your values and the type of world you want to live in? Distinguish between your wants and needs. As we live in a finite world with limited resources, we need to avoid unnecessary wants and wasteful consumption. We need to avoid non recyclable and disposable products. Doing so not only makes financial sense, it is also better for the environment. Remember that your money talks. Every purchase you make is a vote for a business, its products, how it operates and the impact that it has on other people, animals, the environment and the local economy. Be aware of the impact of your decisions. Some consumers may decide to boycott certain products or brands that conflict with their values. Consumer boycotts occur when consumers avoid buying goods from a particular business as a form of protest.
