Today, environmentally conscious behavior is becoming incorporated into consumerism culture. Everywhere we turn we see "The Best Vegan Diet!" or "Buy This Free Trade, Vegan, Sustainably Sourced, Dye Free Sweater - Only $899!" It has become a trend, a subgroup of "Woke" culture, an attempt to seem "with the times" and relevant.
Corporations have created eco-friendly seeming contributions, but continue to prove time and time again that they do not care about the actual issue of the climate crisis, rather, they are out to seem "good" to consumers. Starbucks released a new strawless lid to reduce its plastic usage, which included more plastic than the old lid and straw combined. This proves that Starbucks was not actually interested in the health and safety of this planet but rather in its skyrocketing sales.
Activism for the conservation movement reached its peak when I was in 7th grade, in 2019. Greta Thunberg and other young, relevant leaders took to the streets every Friday as a part of the #FridaysForFuture movement, demanding action from governmental figures. Even I was moved by their words and attended a few protests myself to do my part.
Here's an excerpt from the Detroit Free Press:
And yet, we see less and less screentime afforded to these young activists, even if they continue to advocate. I am guilty of doing this as well, not having attended a protest or spoken at an event in a few years. Once in a while, after a climate-change-induced natural disaster, we see an uptick in environmentally friendly actions, but it falls off again.
This is not to overshadow the impact that the "trend" of environmentally friendly behavior has had, including the expansion of public transit in European countries and more eco-friendly clothing and food options. However, it is important to remember that the climate crisis is a long-term issue that will continue to destroy humanity's future if long-lasting, impactful action is not taken.
I love your take on the consumerism that comes with saving the planet. I feel strongly about reducing the usage of plastic and I try to take measures in my own house, but every alternative does lead to some company profiiting - like using metal straws instead or reusable bags, and the companies are definitely aware of this. Also I think it's super cool that you attend protests - we should definitely go together to one!
ReplyDelete- Divya Dwarakanath
I agree on part that many companies don’t care about the environment and only appear as environmentally friendly to overturn more profit. I like that you included personal experience and admitted to things.
ReplyDeleteI love how you made the connection between the environment and consumerism. Especially the example with starbucks and their new strawless mug. Many people love their coffee and drinks but they don't realize that they are basically being used for profits at the risk of the environment.
ReplyDeleteThat person you quoted seems way smarter than you. (just stating facts ik it can be hard to come to terms with, but your cuter) You make a great point about loosing interest when mainstream media or trends no longer think it's cool to be a activist. As much as it may not be our intention to forget about these things we have a tendency to not pay attention to the things that others also don't care about. We as a society need to work together to improve our response to the pitfalls of this world.
ReplyDeleteDuddeeeee I got confused I thought this was Shorty's blog.... Your smarter she's cuter (that's not to say that you aren't cute, it's an unfair competition Tinkerbell or the person who bullies my handwriting)
Delete