Reflect on the Chain of Consumption

Increasing demand for energy, food, water and other resources has resulted in resource depletion, pollution, environmental degradation and climate change, pushing the earth towards its environmental limits. With humans now consuming more resources than ever before, the current patterns of development across the world are not sustainable. 

Specifically, the increased demand for food and the impact that has had on the way food is produced, processed, transported, consumed, and wasted is important. By reflecting on our own role in the chain of consumption, we are able to take action steps necessary to further reduce our carbon foodprint. By changing our own lifestyle choices on a personal level, and then collectively on a community level, we may start to influence the rest of the chain.

Here is a good starting point of questions that you can begin to reflect on:

• Where do the minerals come from that are used in my electronics? 
• How are they produced? 
• Who are the workers that produce this item? Were they paid ethical wages?
• Can I buy the same thing locally?
• In what ways can we improve our ecological footprints?
• What are some effective ways to reduce material consumption in everyday life while maintaining livability?
• How can the issues of sustainability be brought forth on a local level?