Over-consumption and waste in our throwaway society are placing an intolerable strain on the planet's natural resources and environment, with climate change a major symptom of the problem. Careful, thoughtful purchases considering quality over quantity will lead to a saving on space, money, energy and pollution.
When I have free time I inevitably end up walking down to my local op-shop. Not to buy necessarily, simply to look. After a few minutes of walking around the store I usually end up with a dress mindlessly thrown over my arm. It's so easy to fall into that 'mindless consumer' role, even in op-shops. Before I make any purchases I always stop and ask myself these questions.
Before buying apparel
- Will I be able to wear this a minim of 30 times?
This is a great question to ask- it has stopped me buying many a unsustainable fashion item. You can extend the number of wears based on the cost of the item.
- Do I really need this item, or am I just attracted to it because it's similar to something I already own?
Often when I'm walking around a store I'm attracted to striped clothing. I'll pull out a striped shirt and think ' wow I love this, I'll wear it loads more than 30 times .' That's when I stop and ask myself a second important question - is it similar to something I already own? Yes, I already have two striped shirts like this at home which I love. I definitely don't need a third.
- Is this a timeless item or a unsustainable trend item?
Sustainable fashion expert Lucy Siegle explains , “Fashion consumers are slaves to the micro trends."
I'm guilty of this consumption faux-pas myself. I purchased a rather ridiculous, but 'on trend' crop-top after seeing it on a few of my favourite celebrities. I didn't slow down past the first two questions and was hypnotised by the items appeal, not its (non-existant) practicality. It is hanging in my wardrobe now, until I can pass it on to one of my more fashion forward friends or post it on TuShare .
Reduce what you buy and always ask: Do I really need this?
Estimated CO2 Saving: 17kg per month (200kg per year)
You can reduce your overall consumption by questioning all significant purchases and resisting impulse buying. Before purchasing, give yourself at least a day or two to cool off.
Join the Sharing Economy
80% of Australians have things in their homes that they would be happy to share, this number raises to 86% if you have children.
By sharing assets we no longer want we can make a real difference in the family budget, play a more active role in the community and do something positive for an environment by reducing the amount of unwanted goods going to landfill.
Join the sharing economy with TuShare today by clicking here: Join the 1 Million Women sharing hub
