Practicing mindful purchasing is a brilliant contribution to making a difference, and also a great place to start when it comes to living a green life. 

We see social media flooding with advertisements about sustainable cosmetics and products supporting global issues. In some ways, the growth of conscious products on ethical e-commerce platforms is exactly what the world needs. The world needs more brands that promote local artisans, transparent supply chains, toxic-free products, and sustainable product packaging.

 But like with any mainstream sensation, as the popularity of sustainability grows, the deviation of the main goal or the dilution of the notion of conscious living can also arise. 

It is no secret that greenwashing is an emerging concern celebrated by the big players of the clothing industry offering the latest fashion. The meaning of the powerful terms like fair trade certified, eco-friendly packaging, or 100% organic is melting into controversies and is frequently used interchangeably as marketing jargon. As a result, it has jeopardized the authenticity of the genuinely conscious products, making them seem like another unceremonious promotion.  

Is Conscious Living Limited To Just Mindful Shopping?

We’re constantly looking out for the next hot, upcoming brand and the new products they have to offer. It is not hard to fall into the temptation of purchasing the buzzing trends. The buying more is more mindset affects almost every shopper, and there is no shame in that, even if it means arguing the benefits of recyclable fashion vs. fast fashion.

Consider the limitation of conscious living if it is applied only to purchasing clothing products; how limited it would be for individuals who desire to live consciously but lack the financial means to do so. The expensive price tags of products that are sourced sustainably and manufactured with integrity are not shocking news. And that is arguably fair, given the effort of going the extra mile— producing high-quality, sustainable products while respecting the environment enough to employ ethical marketing principles. But yes, dollars do not rain from the sky, which is why conscious living defined solely by conscious shopping is not a comprehensive description.

From Brand-Focus To Change-Focus

Environment and Social Issues Walk Hand in Hand                                                                                 

Conscious living or green living must be addressed keeping in mind the environmental and social issues. Conscious consumerism is about working in concert with a framework that delves into social challenges, connecting the world in relational ways, and holding ourselves liable for our conduct (proactively taking responsibilities). The finest of the sustainable packaging companies are masters at this, and they inspire us to do the same. It is admirable how certified B Corp brands go beyond offering sustainable products. They encourage consumers to employ ecological sustainability at the grass-root level for the greater good through educational blogs and campaigns on different green labels, sustainable packaging ideas, and other pro-sustainability topics.

Taking Action: 

Hold yourself accountable within the social justice framework, because failing to do so can lead to a disruption of local markets. Sustainable packaging companies must practice ethical supply chains. Fairtrade certified brands must also make efforts to reduce their carbon footprint. We must not accept fashion brands that promote negative body image. And most of all, conscious living must connect us with reality, the actual world, one where we can interact and bond with a real person in real life. 

The Coexistence Of Conscious Consumerism & Social Justice

If we were to weigh our actions against the consequences, branding conscious living as more than conscious shopping is also an understatement. We should push ourselves and the conscious community to strive harder.  If we join hands, we can spread globally the recognition of noble organizations tackling inequality and environmental degradation through fair trade certified eco-friendly items and sustainable packaging solutions. We can encourage one another to explore the books that explain the impacts of global warming and climate change. We can trade event dates where we can give away old garments as donations. These are some of the many approaches to exchange brand recommendations and practice sustainable or green living. 

Conclusion 

Instead of being idolized for well-curated wardrobes and homes, let us choose to be acknowledged for spreading global awareness and honoring the environment. There will be no stopping us if the world as a whole decides to become the dream team to achieve the mission of living green. 

Be committed to taking up challenges, reaching out to people outside of our social circles, and addressing global problems we are yet to comprehend. There is beauty in the journey if we realize that social reform is the roadmap to conscious existence. If everyone does their part as thoughtful, dedicated citizens, we can most definitely transform the world. And this cannot have been stated any better than Mahatma Gandhi— you must be the change you wish to see.

It is clear that conscious living encompasses far more than conscious consumption, so let us win this fight together by quitting the first mistake of limiting ourselves to just eco-friendly shopping and instead go further and beyond.