Overview
“The wealth of the nation is its air, water, soil, forests, minerals, rivers, lakes, oceans, scenic beauty, wildlife habitats and biodiversity… that’s all there is. That’s the whole economy. That’s where all the economic activity and jobs come from. These biological systems are the sustaining wealth of the world.” – Gaylord Nelson, activist, politician and founder of Earth Day
In the United States, and across the globe, our markets are exploitative. We cut down trees faster than they can grow and mine the Earth until there is nothing left. Why does this happen? Everything we buy requires natural resources: trees, water, coal, minerals, all. The demand for these natural resources is higher than what the Earth has to offer. Our dollar has more power over the fate of our planet than we may believe. Every choice matters, so let’s be conscious consumers! Making decisions that have an overall positive impact on the planet takes many forms.
Conservation. First and foremost, buy fewer things. Consuming less means conserving natural resources and preserving them for generations to come. Invest in quality items that will last, which saves money and time. When something breaks, try fixing it before tossing and always repurpose or upcycle “trash” into something useful! Remember, less is more, especially when supporting the planet.
Use your dollar. Wherever possible, purchase ethically and sustainably-made products. There are plenty of businesses working to create quality products with global benefit. Many elect to become Certified B Corporations or 1% for the Planet members — or both! 1% for the Planet businesses commit to giving back 1% of total sales directly to environmental nonprofits. Yvon Chouinard, co-founder of 1% for the Planet and Patagonia, describes membership as “a cost of doing business on this planet. It’s not philanthropy— it’s an absolute necessity for us living on this planet. It’s the opposite of doing nothing.”
Keep it local. Local spending is critical for local economies; it keeps neighbors employed, taxes paid, businesses open, and communities alive. In times of financial hardship, many local businesses are in danger of closing for good, while most large corporations will manage. Supporting local businesses during the pandemic bolsters community resilience. Corporations play a huge role in perpetuating climate change and injustice. In fact, only about 90 companies are responsible for about two-thirds of total global carbon emissions. The responsibility to effect change does not at all solely rest upon individuals. However, if we use, consume and waste less, reuse, shift behavior, and pressure businesses to act, we will see how individual actions lead to sizable collective impact. Prioritizing sustainability in daily life is possible with planning, intention and smart budgeting.
THINK
Buying local goods is extremely important for local businesses and economies. While it may seem “easier” to go to big box stores, doubling down on shopping locally matters — and it can be easier and cheaper than you may think!
ACTIVITY
Find some local stores — whether they sell food, jewelry or something else — and search for products you need or purchase regularly, as well as low or comparable prices.
- For example, calculate the price of ingredients for cookies or a casserole at a local grocer versus a large supermarket.
Talk with family about whether shopping at these local stores could still fit within your budget.
Don’t forget to post about the challenge and your learnings/doings on social media and tag us on Facebook @TurningGreen, on Twitter @TurningGreenOrg, and on Instagram @TurningGreenOrg and use #TGClassroom.
THINK
Buying local goods is extremely important for local businesses and economies. Often-times it is easy to go to big box stores, and we miss out on opportunities to shop local. However shopping locally can be easier and cheaper than you think!
ACTIVITY
Try finding some local stores near you whether they sell food, jewelry or something else. See if you can find a way to shop local and still have low prices.
- For example, you could try going and seeing what the price of ingredients for cookies are at a local grocer versus a large grocery store.
Talk with your parents about whether shopping at these local stores could still fit within their budget.
Don’t forget to post about the challenge and your learnings/doings on social media and tag us on Facebook @TurningGreen, on Twitter @TurningGreenOrg, and on Instagram @TurningGreenOrg and use #TGClassroom.
THINK
Thousands of businesses with significant power are working to achive positive global impact. One way corporations commit to reducing inequality, lowering levels of poverty, working toward a healthier environment, strengthening communities, and creating high quality jobs with dignity and purpose is by becoming a Certified B Corporation. B Corps use profit and growth to yield positive impact for people and the environment, as well as the economy.
ACTIVITY
To get started, watch this video to understand the positive potential for business. Now, browse the B Corp website and 1% for the Planet directories to become familiar with companies that stand for change.
Research one B Corp or 1% for the Planet member. Better yet, see if you can find a local “B-1,” both certified B Corporation and 1% for the Planet member!
Share at least two ways it benefits people, the planet, and the economy with family and friends, and post about it on social media, tagging @TurningGreenOrg and other relevant accounts.