Climate change and the shortage of natural resources have been a debate for decades. While some people took the matter seriously and began reducing their carbon footprint, others shrugged it off. However, as time went on, the deterioration of the environment, increased natural disasters, and decline in health and wellness encouraged even more people to make changes for the better.
Purchasing Power Evokes Change
While there are several environmentally friendly concepts to consider, consumers quickly realized that there was power in their purchasing decisions. If more people were willing to invest their hard-earned money into products and services offered by sustainable businesses, the increased demand would prompt the rest of the world to follow suit. Ultimately, small and large brands began investing in sustainable materials and practices, reducing their carbon footprint.A New Interest
Though states, cities, local communities, and businesses did more to invest in eco-friendly living, the number of places doing the right thing paled in comparison to destinations that ignored this serious matter. Then, seemingly out of nowhere, the demand for environmentally friendly products and zero waste stores. Continue reading to discover the top reasons.The Pandemic
In March 2020, the federal government declared the coronavirus a national pandemic. Establishments were temporarily closed, activities were postponed or canceled, millions of people lost their jobs, and everyday life changed significantly.Although this was a significant transition for humans, many aspects of the environment benefited from this much-needed break. There were reports of improved air quality, injuries and deaths among wildlife like deer decreased, and water quality got better. Seeing these results happen encouraged consumers to adopt more eco-friendly practices.
Social Media
Social media has long evolved from a platform where users can keep in touch with friends and family into a space where people can support social causes like saving the environment. Users now have the means to share their stories, post facts, and even provide relevant data from reputable sources with millions of people instantly.Whether they want to discuss wildfires and increased natural disasters or share the benefits of buying reusable cotton rounds and bamboo toilet paper, they have an opportunity to do so. These posts are shared with others generating widespread knowledge and support that encourages others to think twice about the products they use and businesses they work with.
Affordability (Longevity)
Consumers aren’t only looking for brands that offer products and services that align with their values and beliefs. Factors like quality, affordability, and longevity also come into play. As sustaining a decent life gets increasingly challenging, purchasing high-quality yet affordable products is essential. What has been discovered is that eco-friendly products tend to check all the boxes.Although it might cost a bit more to buy a sustainable product initially, the quality is often better than other options. As such, the products last longer, reducing the need to have to make another purchase too soon. For instance, a reusable water bottle costs more than disposable options, but it lasts longer. It not only means the consumer won’t need another container for a while, but they can save money on water by simply refilling the bottle as needed.
Health And Wellness
Health and wellness interests have increased since the COVID-19 pandemic. Everyone is encouraged to do what they can to reduce their risk of contracting the virus (or at the very least, minimize the symptoms if they did get sick). More than dieting and exercising, people began to take a close look at everything from food and clothes to personal care and household cleaning products.Anyone interested in improving their health and wellness knew that they had to make the switch to eco-friendly products. Since these items are made from organic, natural ingredients and free from harmful chemicals and toxins, they became the preferred choice.
Not too long ago, the idea of climate change and global warming seemed minuscule. These days, however, the impact of human activity on the environment is more evident. As such, people are doing more to make a change. At the top of the list is using their purchasing power to encourage the continued development of sustainable brands worldwide.
