Why Some People Might Be Against The Idea of Sustainability

Let's talk about something difficult. Why are some people against the idea of sustainability, and how should we respond? 🤔🌿

The Idea of Elitism

"Only wealthy people can afford to live sustainably (shop from sustainable brands, etc)"

• Sustainability is about rethinking our relationships with the things we consume. NOT about if you can buy highly priced yoga pants made from recycled water bottles.
• Most sustainable practices don’t require any purchases at all and can actually save you money. Wearing what you already have in the closet and reusing traditionally “single use” plastic items is a great way of living more sustainably.

It Won't Make a Difference

"It's only one piece of plastic. Why can't we leave it to the next generation to clean it up?"

• Every single piece of plastic ever made still exists in the world in some form.
• Choosing to refuse plastic cutlery or a plastic bag from the store will prevent at least one piece of plastic from sitting in the landfill or ocean for over 100 years. Millions of us choosing to do the same will prevent millions of plastic from being in the environment.

All or nothing

"If you care so much about the environment, why aren’t you living perfectly zero waste?"

• Most of us understand that we will never reach the idealized version of “zero waste” that has been constructed. However, we’re still trying. Why?
• Because we understand that every single action counts, and we’d rather aim for a more positive future than settle for the status quo.

Fear of Getting Started

"There's so much to do to get started! Plus, I can't give up my favourite skin care brands."

• By starting, you acknowledge the severity of the issue and the fact that you are now going to try to do something about it. Don't worry about changing your lifestyle overnight! Instead maybe focus on one habit first.
• Also, any habit is hard to change. If you aren’t ready to give up your favourite makeup brands, maybe start your eco journey in the kitchen and buy a wooden scrubber and go from there!