Social impact of consumption choices

Competence Area

Embodying Sustainability Values

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Key messages

Every consumption choice has a social impact, affecting issues like child labor, fair wages, and local economies. Being a conscious consumer means making informed choices that support ethical practices and responsible brands. Our choices have unseen consequences in developing countries (poor worker protection, low pay), the environment (pollution, resource depletion), and our social culture (materialism, inequality). Consumption is not just an economic act, but also a moral and social one. Individual choices, no matter how small, can inspire broader change and help build a fairer, more equal, and sustainable world.

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Learning Objectives

Define what it means to be a conscious consumer and understand the social implications of consumption choices. Identify how consumer choices can contribute to fighting child labor, supporting fair labor, and promoting local economies. Recognize certifications and practices that indicate ethical and sustainable production, such as Fair Trade, BSCI, and SA8000. Understand the unseen consequences of overconsumption on developing countries, the environment, and social culture. Learn practical steps to become a responsible consumer, including researching products, choosing quality over quantity, and reusing/recycling items. Be able to identify and support initiatives and movements that promote ethical and sustainable consumption.

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Follow-up activity

No

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Instructions to introduce the topic and deliver the video/presentation/micro resource

Begin by asking the audience: "Every day, we make countless purchasing choices. Have you ever considered the impact these choices have beyond just getting the product?" Introduce the concept of "conscious consumption" and state that the session will explore the social impact of our choices. Emphasize that "Every euro you spend is a vote for the kind of world you want to build". Briefly mention that the resource will delve into various aspects, from labor practices to supporting local communities. Play the "Social impact of consumption choices" video/presentation. After "Supporting Local Producers," discuss how buying local strengthens communities and reduces pollution. When covering "Real-World Examples of consumer impact" (Fast Fashion, Everyday Food Choices), encourage participants to share their own observations or experiences related to these industries. Emphasize the "Unseen Consequences" to underscore that "Consumption is not just an economic act—it's a moral and social one too".

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