GAP working group 2014 - Consumption

Results from the GAP (Group Assembly Process) Group Consumption at the Degrowth Conference in Leipzig 2014

Proposals for the Transformation > Reformation of the standardization processes (p.e. ISO) so that marginalized (especially in the global south) are more effectively involved. > Create time and space to build communities (= alternatives to shopping). > Mainstreaming of critical thinking across all school subjects towards consumption habits, social practices, social status and advertisement. > Discuss basic needs and fulfillment. > Teach different social-ecological models. > Expand teaching of self-providing. > Establish space for children to discover how to make/do things. > Create a marketing watch organization with an official mandate to restrict advertisement. Vision > Everyone should get the possibility of “full” awareness about consumption impacts. > Find alternative fulfilment for psychological drivers of buying. Controversial issues > One single sustainability label (“single score label”)? > Base education on communal decision of what is liked and needed? > Make advertisement spaces public so that everyone can publish ads? Ideas for Action > Ad-busting. > Spend a year without buying new stuff (contact: ben[at]goodmatters[dot]net). > Inform about manipulation practices. Open Questions for Research > Should advertisement only be restricted or prohibited entirely? > What can we learn from the tobacco case? > How can we make long-lasting and high-quality products the new normal? Stirring papers: > Self-providing as a motor for Degrowth > Good:matters. Empowering the Willing – Practicing the Transformation > Where does responsibility begin and end? More information and possibilities to engage!