Do Ethics Even Affect Your Life?
Yes, believe it or not,There is an expectation in today’s world for us to be more conscious about our environmental impact. I understand how difficult it can be to live sustainably and responsibly within modern U.S. culture. It’s so much easier to feel overwhelmed and just say “I really don’t care,” and get on with life as usual. Yet despite what those dissonant voices in your mind might say, you are here because you DO care and there is power in that. Caring is really the main ingredient for healthy and responsible living. And since you already have that concept down, let’s dive into a few ways you can start making a positive impact:Purchasing Clean + Fair Trade Products
Shopping Slow Fashion
Supporting BIPOC Communities
They say “cleanliness is next to godliness”... I’m not entirely sure who they are or what that really means, but it seems that having less things around to collect dust allows room for more play and joy. And there’s no need to discard half your belongings to achieve this. An easier approach is to introduce a higher quality in what you bring into your life, as opposed to purging. Maintain your space by purchasing high quality items that are made to last. Zero Waste Outlet is a great place to find products that provide the best value for the long-term. By changing your consumption habits
you create a ripple of positive impact for the planet
The Fashion Industry is one of the biggest culprits in global waste and pollution. Oftentimes, garment factories are influenced by insane demands and pressure to mass-produce at price expectations from leading brands in first world countries. This cycle contributes to hazardous working environments in sweatshops and 13 million tons of textile waste each year, 95% of which could be reused or recycled.Thankfully, many companies have adopted better practices to offset this issue. More up-and-coming brands are introducing fresh and stylish ways to promote slow and ethical fashion to the market. Reformation is one of many fashion labels pioneering sustainability practices in the industry today. They are a great example of beautiful everyday clothing, but not at the cost of degrading the people making them or the planet. Slow fashion companies are continuing to invest in protecting workers, fair wages, and improving their environmental impact. As everyday consumers, the changes we all make do add up, which drives change in the fashion industry. We can speak up for the planet and still be stylish. So when you’re browsing your return to the office wardrobe, consider purchasing outfits from an environmentally conscious label.Let’s not forget that social justice isn’t exclusive to the types of clothes we wear. Many still aren’t aware that marginalized communities continue to be the most vulnerable to the impact of the pandemic. Lockdown mandates and the economic downturn have exacerbated the social disparity within these communities.Supporting Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour (BIPOC) owned brands like The Good Tee is a small step that can go a long way. Or consider reading about or getting involved with organizational efforts like Rise Against Hate. Listening to your friends and family members within these communities can also provide a better understanding of BIPOC solidarity and what that means for them. As future leaders and participants of society, it is crucial for us to engage and make time for action towards existing oppression. However, I understand that knowing where or how to start can be intimidating and uncomfortable. “You can choose courage or comfort, but you cannot choose both”
- Brene Brown
Nothing of value is earned by half-hearted measures, and there are no simple “tips” or “hacks” to become an ally. So I recommend we educate ourselves and put in the conscious effort to become good allies. If you are interested in learning more about allyship for marginalized groups, you can find more on “Becoming a Better BIPOC Ally”The pursuit of a conscious and ethical lifestyle can feel a lot like a battle. The world is full of things that need to be healed. And because that need exists, there’s an opportunity for refreshing growth on an individual and global scale. Showing that we care not only improves our life and the lives of those around us, it initiates the change we hope for. All movements start with a thought or a feeling and they evolve into discussions and congregations of people pursuing the same goal. Don’t give up on that spark of compassion inside of you. The first few steps are always the most difficult, but your ripples will be making waves soon enough.