Thoughts on how we can live in a more environmentally sustainable way by first redefining ourselves as "people" and "citizens," rather than as "consumers."
Consumers. It's such a common description of people these days, we hardly bother to think about the implications. But if we stop to look below the surface and consider what it really means, we might find it's time to redefine ourselves.
Do we exist just to consume? Not our basic consumption needs -- food, water, shelter, clothing -- but stuff. Because that appears to be the way in which people are most valued these days, as shoppers, buyers and spenders.
As consumers, though, we're not encouraged to make choices that are wise, sustainable, healthy or green. We're encouraged only to get out there and support the economy, to keep the great engine of commerce chugging along.
Of course, a healthy economy is important for everyone. But an economy based solely on consumption for consumption's sake is what's led us to where we are today: a world facing dire environmental problems that threaten plants, animals and people alike.
The solution is to redefine ourselves first as citizens of the Earth or fellow human beings. Then, whenever we need to buy something -- whether it's a loaf of bread, a new pair of shoes, a birthday present or a coffee-maker -- we can let our purchasing decisions be guided by that environmentally responsible perspective, rather than by a label others have tagged us with.
