Minimalism and Downsizing

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Written By Anonymous

In order to respect planetary boundaries, it’s important that we all begin to look at our energy use, consumption habits, and the underlying psychology behind our excessive consumption. 

I’ve been working towards transitioning to material minimalism and responsible buying because, as a climate activist, I want my actions to respect planetary boundaries. I also want to know what respecting planetary boundaries feels like, what sacrifices are required, and what is gained. 

Cutting back on consumption takes constant practice, self analysis, and I make mistakes all of the time. I am trying to only buy what I need, but so often, I am frivolous and end up shopping online, going to the store, or trying to “keep up” with friends, family & people around me.

Even though our individual carbon footprints are negligible in the grand scheme of things, our collective buying habits can push the market towards sustainability and environmental protection and normalize minimalist and sustainable living which is critical to ensuring that earth remains habitable. 

Until we collectively figure out how to produce and consume in ways that do not overuse earth’s finite resources, as part of a circular regenerative economy, we will need to find ways to cut back on consumption and energy use. 

Here are a few things you can try out:

Shopping

Decluttering: Begin sorting through all of the items you own and selling or donating items you no longer need. Selling and donating will keep items circulating and less likely to go into a landfill and can alleviate stress by creating a simpler life and living space. 

Gift Economy: Instead of buying new, consider giving and receiving used goods. The Buy Nothing Project can help you get started! Neighborhood tool sharing is another way to avoid unnecessary purchases. 

Buying sustainable & reusable products: Opt for spending more on products that you can reuse, will last, and are made of renewable and sustainable materials like glass, metal, and wood like a reusable travel mug.

Practicing Self-Control: Learn to say no to unnecessary purchases. When tempted, remind yourself that owning less simplifies life, reduces stress, and benefits the planet. Having other hobbies and interests to focus on that replace shopping may also be helpful. 

Buying Choices: Be intentional about the products you buy and what companies you support. For example, it’s possible to avoid leather products due to the ethical concerns associated with its production.

Sustainable Purchasing: If you can afford it, opt for organic food, buy organic clothing, and purchase goods that are made from sustainable and renewable materials like wood, paper, bamboo, and certain metals. 

Researching Companies: If you have the time, research the carbon footprint and labor & production methods of companies you buy from.

Online Shopping: Try putting things in your Amazon cart (or Walmart or whatever other companies you shop with) but only purchase them once a month. This cuts back on deliveries, and will also give you time to figure out what you really need. 

Media Mindfulness: Avoiding advertisements and social media can reduce the pressure to conform, consume, compare, and purchase the latest trends. 

Housing and Transportation

Housing: If you rent, here are some ideas to cut back on consumption and energy use. 

If you are a first time buyer, consider buying or building a smaller house that requires less energy and can be built with fewer materials. Smaller living, ADUs, eco villages, and tiny house communities are beginning to become more popular.

If you own a large house, consider downsizing to a smaller house that meets your needs but requires less energy to heat and cool, and will allow you to buy fewer household items.

Transportation and Travel: If you live in an area where public transit is readily available, consider going without a car. It will simplify your life and save you money that you’d otherwise spend on gas, insurance, and repairs. 

If you live in a suburban or rural area and need a car, consider supplementing driving with public transit, normal or electric bikes, carpooling, and walking when you’re able. When it’s time for a new (or a new used car) opt for a vehicle that causes less environmental harm.

Avoiding airplane travel and vacationing closer to home is also a great way to lower emissions. 

Investments

Banking and Investing: Affluence, in general, has been linked with higher energy use and a higher carbon footprint. A lot of our investments support fossil fuel companies and other companies that cause environmental and social harm. Consider banking with green banks, and if you have extra money to invest, making socially and environmentally friendly investments. 

More on banking without fossil fuels. 

I think this is unlikely, but it is possible to transform our energy and consumption habits in order to respect planetary boundaries and ensure that earth remains safe and habitable for all. 

You can learn more about minimalism here:

Anonymous
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