7 Consequences of consumption

Before you start

Main focus

Decisions about what we buy, use and discard have short- and long-term social and environmental consequences.

Why it’s relevant us

As global citizens, we are connected with all people living on Earth and hold responsibility for the wellbeing of future generations.

Inquiry questions

• What determines our purchasing decisions?
• What do we need to know to make our purchasing more socially and environmentally sustainable?
• How can we influence more sustainable manufacturing, consumer and waste disposal?

Key terms

• Artisan mining
• Conflict mineral
• E-waste (electronic waste)
• Fair trade
• Global citizenship
• Information and communications technology (ICT)
• North–south gap
• Transnational companies (or corporations)

Let’s begin

When we buy something, we need to consider more than just how much it costs and what we will use it for. We also need to think about and understand the impact of our purchase on other people’s lives and the environment. Where was the item made? Who made it? In what workplace conditions was it made? What is the short- and long-term impact of this on the environment? How did the item get to us? What will happen to the item after we have finished with it? What alternative items are available?