December is a time for celebrations, joy, and giving. However, it's also a season when overconsumption can easily take over.
According to Wikipedia, overconsumption is defined as "a level of consumption exceeding normal needs or average consumption. Beyond a certain threshold, it becomes a factor in the overexploitation of natural resources that are often difficult, dangerous, or slow to replenish--or cannot be replenished at all."
This phenomenon, particularly prevalent during the holidays, can be avoided with greater awareness and more thoughtful choices. To learn more, here are two valuable resources:
- An educational article on overconsumption and its impact, provided by Quebec's Ministry of the Environment: Les aventures de rafale (only in french).
- A Netflix documentary, Buy Now: The Shopping Conspiracy, which delves into the practices of consumption giants.
Practical Tips for a Greener Holiday Season
Here are a few simple ideas to reduce overconsumption while still embracing the joy of the season:
- Make a gift list to avoid impulsive purchases.
- Choose meaningful gifts instead of feeling pressured to give for the sake of giving.
- Support the local economy by shopping from small businesses.
- Opt for gift cards for experiences, such as movie tickets, shows, restaurants, or spa treatments.
- Prepare homemade gifts, whether it's food or crafts.
- Create personalized holiday cards or handmade presents.
These small changes can make a big difference. Together, let's rethink our choices for a more sustainable future. Let's celebrate responsibly and keep the environment in mind!