Finding Balance between Consumerism and Conservationism
Early pioneers of the green movement must be conflicted: Their message has been heard and the green movement has seeped into every facet of our lives, from cars to buildings to food. But with the movement’s popularity has come what many see as a hijacking of green sensibilities by people and companies who are trying to sell their products, many of which are either only marginally green or completely unnecessary. If the goal is to leave a smaller carbon footprint, to reduce waste, or to conserve energy or resources, we should buy fewer products, not more.
Let’s not start demonizing the corporations, especially those who have advanced conservationism through energy and fuel saving technologies, new environmentally-friendly products at lower prices, and new ways to recycle. It’s no coincidence that the popularity of the green movement increased dramatically when corporations began to adopt - and promote - green practices. Conservationism cannot be seen as the enemy of consumerism, but rather a lens through which to view it.
