Everything we buy has an impact on the environment, Buy Nothing Day highlights the environmental and ethical consequences of consumerism. The developed countries - only 20% of the world population are consuming over 80% of the earth's natural resources, causing a disproportionate level of environmental damage, and an unfair distribution of wealth.
As consumers we need to question the products we buy and challenge the companies who produce them. What are the true risks to the environment and developing countries? The argument is infinite - while it continues we should be looking for simple solutions and Buy Nothing Day is a good place to start.
No purchase necessary!
Saturday November 27th 2010 will be the next Buy Nothing Day (UK). It's a day where you challenge yourself, your family and friends to switch off from shopping and tune into life. The rules are simple, for 24 hours you will detox from shopping and anyone can take part provided they spend a day without spending!
People around the UK will make a pact with themselves to take a break from consumption as a personal experiment or public statement and the best thing is - IT'S FREE!!!
I have a problem with this day. First of all the concept assumes that some people buy something every day, or perhaps in the US everyday Mon -Sat. I find this hard to believe, unless someone is walking to the shops and buying their food fresh everyday, in which case why should they have to stop doing that?
ReplyDeleteSecondly this is an American idea, which assumes you have been going mad shopping for Thanksgiving, so is it such a good idea over here in the UK, and especially the last Saturday of November, just before the main Christmas rush starts in the shops?
I have regular 'buy nothing days' throughout the year, usually at least once a week and sometimes more often, but I often shop for the weekend on a Saturday and at that time of year hubby and I might decide to do our main Christmas shopping.
This day has annoyed me for some years and all the more so because it doesn't stop people from spending madly the week before and the week after.
I would advocate spending mindfully, within our means and with the planet and producers in mind all year round. I would also suggest shopping for what you need rather than shopping as a leisure activity and enjoying a walk in the countryside or time in the garden now and again.