How to Practice Sustainable Consumption

credit: @thredup

credit: @thredup

by Zara Khan

How many times have you wanted to buy that top and then you are reminded the only reason you like it is because you have something similar sitting in your wardrobe back home. That resistance to not buy it - this is good - this is practicing sustainable consumption. Why? Because buying less in general is a good idea - for your wallet and the Earth.

Here are 3 ways to be move towards being a sustainable consumer.

Shopping at consignment shops, thrifting, and using websites like ​Depop​ and ​ThredUp​ to buy your clothes. Second hand clothes are a great option because they reject fast fashion and encourage recycling. We love that for our planet.

Here’s the most simple way to move towards being a sustainable consumer. Just wear your clothes nine months longer - it’ll reduce your carbon footprint by 30% according to Hasan Minhaj’s ​Patriot Act​ research.

Now think more out of the box, be creative. The problem is that with our fast-paced society your clothes can become out of fashion in just a matter of months - sometimes even days. The solution is simple: redefine fashion norms. Norms are meant to be broken - using thrifting and your old clothes, we can bring back authenticity. It is okay to wear used clothes and old clothes. No one should tell you that your clothes are “out of fashion.” Defying the social constructs of fashion is essential to making a difference.

If you move towards any of these approaches, you are making one step towards being a sustainable consumer. Always make the conscious effort to be conscious of what you consume!

*Updated April 9, 2024


MARC JACOBS