November 18, 2023 - Maria Lisa Polegatto
Quote credit: McCloy, 2023; Photo credit: Polegatto, M.L. (Belfry, Cape Breton, NS)
Reflective Journal: My Journey Through Consumption,
Consumerism and Materialism
Consumerism and Materialism
A part of education, learning and implementation includes walking your talk so others see examples and solutions to ongoing issues, including climate change, pollution, current issues, production of products. Welcome to my post on my journey through consumption, consumerism and materialism.
While we see products online and in local stores, we do not always know the whole process of how items are produced, shipped, and delivered to us. We often just see the finished product. We also don't even realize the overwhelming number of products we encounter daily. Consumption of items is about more than just buying an item. Consumerism can be obvious or have the illusion of us making the decision on what, where, why, how, and when to buy. Materialism is an epidemic on the planet overwhelming nature and species to the point of exhausting natural resources.
While we see products online and in local stores, we do not always know the whole process of how items are produced, shipped, and delivered to us. We often just see the finished product. We also don't even realize the overwhelming number of products we encounter daily. Consumption of items is about more than just buying an item. Consumerism can be obvious or have the illusion of us making the decision on what, where, why, how, and when to buy. Materialism is an epidemic on the planet overwhelming nature and species to the point of exhausting natural resources.
We will look below at a period of a regular consumer, me, with observations, learning, growing, and reflecting on the process. I hope on your journey you will be more aware of your role being a consumer in today's economy and environment. We are already overrun with too much unsustainable consumption, such as plastics. Do we really need more products or rather more sustainable products that do not interfere with the survival of nature and species, including ourselves? I have included some articles, observations and suggestions throughout this blog for your consideration.
 |  |  |
Design credit: Polegatto, M.L. (Canva free photos)
First, a list of some terms and examples that will be mentioned in this blog post:
- Cocooning - this term refers to people staying home using technology to reach out to the world, such as online shopping at home, i.e. Amazon and Wayfair.
- Collaborative Consumption refers to increasing collaboration or cooperation instead of individual consumption to avoid waste and environmental damage, i.e.: Airbnb, food co-op, school bus, flea market, garage sale, second hand shop, shared workspace, Uber.
- Ethical Consumption refers to the careful choice of products based on items produced without damaging the environment or without being produced by persons forced for labor in unsafe conditions, i.e. organic, locally made, second hand shops.
- Good Life refers to the philosophy Greek philosophers such as Epicurus focusing on the "pursuit of a tranquil life" and replacing food that has travelled much distance to get to us being replaced with local food and the sharing of "simple pleasures with other people can trigger a more mindful pursuit of the good life" i.e.: farmer markets.
- Hyperconsumption is a term referring to "excessive or non-functional consumption", i.e., malls, casino.
- Illusions of Choice refers to the illusion of similar products by various brands varying outside of exterior elements. 10 brands monopolize products produced globally. For example, different cars may be made by the sale manufacturer so the engine is the same inside a different exterior body.
- Individualism refers to consumption to satisfy a sense of self notwithstanding any negative effects environmentally or not following the leader, i.e.: buying a dream home in the country but producing more gas emissions due to longer driving distance required.
- Relocalisation refers to the thought of globalization being overstated and negatively affecting the environment and instead the desire to turn to localization, i.e.: buying locally grown or made such as at farmer markets.
- Voluntary Simplicity refers to living with less due to a conscious choice to avoid waste, i.e. clothesline instead of electric dryer, walking or biking instead of driving, composting
Quote credit (McCloy, 2023), Design and photography: Polegatto, M.L. (Belfry Gut)
Reflective Journal
So, let's start our journey over the upcoming days below. I try to be a frugal and consciousness consumer but I'm always learning new ways to be a better consumer with my choices keeping in mind the environment and ultimately all life on earth.
October 20, 2023, Friday: Vacation Day And Afternoon Craft Show
I am in a craft show where people are invited to buy from a group of local vendors to support local entrepreneurs and crafters which is a form of collaborative consumption and ethical consumption. Doing crafts brings me joy and meditative relaxation in doing them and then needing an avenue to sell them as space is limited at home. It also cuts down on carbon emissions from having these crafts shipped in from far away places.
Photo credit: Polegatto, M.L. Purchase:
I switched to purchase of 18.9 litre water jug instead of several smaller 4 litre jugs and then return for another 18.9 litre jug. It is both cheaper and more environmentally friendly. For the round 4 litre bottles, I usually cut off the top and used the bottom for clear storage in my home workshop. I wish I was able to do the 18.9 litre jug sooner but injury from car accident prevented me.
I switched to purchase of 18.9 litre water jug instead of several smaller 4 litre jugs and then return for another 18.9 litre jug. It is both cheaper and more environmentally friendly. For the round 4 litre bottles, I usually cut off the top and used the bottom for clear storage in my home workshop. I wish I was able to do the 18.9 litre jug sooner but injury from car accident prevented me.
Photo credit: Polegatto, M.L. Sale:
Crafts. I have been moving to using recycled pieces of furniture and redoing them so there is less waste in the world. Wood is a valuable commodity, and we need more living trees instead of more trees being harvested for more furniture. Yes, I'm a tree hugger :) Many of the items are locally made which is a form of ethical consumption for consumers.
Crafts. I have been moving to using recycled pieces of furniture and redoing them so there is less waste in the world. Wood is a valuable commodity, and we need more living trees instead of more trees being harvested for more furniture. Yes, I'm a tree hugger :) Many of the items are locally made which is a form of ethical consumption for consumers.
Observation: I took paper bags for customers purchase; however, I never used them as customers had their own reusable bags. I noticed other crafters were using paper bags also for customers.
Online Ads are hard to miss when you are on social media. Amazon and Wayfair are two examples, below of hyperconsumption and cocooning. I have never purchased from Wayfair but have purchased items from Amazon and DoTerra that I can't get locally here. While it gets me products I need to realize there are carbon emissions from these products being shipped to me from airplanes and trucks. Is it really worth the effects on the environment for a specialized product or better prices. Are we saving today but costing our future? Yes, every part we take is a little bit the environment needs. All the people on earth that are taking positive steps for the benefit of the environment add up.
Online Ads are hard to miss when you are on social media. Amazon and Wayfair are two examples, below of hyperconsumption and cocooning. I have never purchased from Wayfair but have purchased items from Amazon and DoTerra that I can't get locally here. While it gets me products I need to realize there are carbon emissions from these products being shipped to me from airplanes and trucks. Is it really worth the effects on the environment for a specialized product or better prices. Are we saving today but costing our future? Yes, every part we take is a little bit the environment needs. All the people on earth that are taking positive steps for the benefit of the environment add up.
 |  |  |
Online shopping is a form of cocooning by using technology to shop at home such as Amazon, 2023; Doterra, 2023; Wayfair, 2023. (Photo credit: Polegatto, M.L.)
October 21, 2023, Saturday: All Day Craft Show
 Photo credit: Polegatto, M.L. | Purchase and examples of ethical consumption:
|
 Art/Photo credit: Polegatto, M.L. | Sale: Items such as
|
Observations: Rainy downpour off and on all day long - possible effect of climate change in action from human destruction of nature.
Some crafters were doing sustainable crafts including use of recycled items such as driftwood from beachcombing and cleaning up shorelines and birch bark found in nature. The venue had garbage cans but not for recycling.
I include on my table cards from the Canadian Sea Turtle Network (CSTN) and at least two people over two days took a card. One being a retired fisherman that had seen a leatherback sea turtle wash up on local shoreline. The other was a lady who walked the beaches. I find engaging others is rewarding to help save species and encourage people to get outside more :) I always feel refreshed and revitalized after time spent in nature.
Supper at a restaurant: plastic items (food container, fork, knife) and foil wrapper. Upon leaving there was only organic bins open for trash, so I asked and an appropriate bin for plastics was provided. Note: I am hopeful educating people about proper disposables is effective. There was no bottle bin, so I took that home with me to properly dispose of. Upon getting home I recycled items from the day and put items in the recycle, paper and plastic bins. I agree with recycling but would also like to see more innovation in finding ways to be sustainable. People do not like change and change is only possible when there are options to replace unsustainability.
Some crafters were doing sustainable crafts including use of recycled items such as driftwood from beachcombing and cleaning up shorelines and birch bark found in nature. The venue had garbage cans but not for recycling.
I include on my table cards from the Canadian Sea Turtle Network (CSTN) and at least two people over two days took a card. One being a retired fisherman that had seen a leatherback sea turtle wash up on local shoreline. The other was a lady who walked the beaches. I find engaging others is rewarding to help save species and encourage people to get outside more :) I always feel refreshed and revitalized after time spent in nature.
Supper at a restaurant: plastic items (food container, fork, knife) and foil wrapper. Upon leaving there was only organic bins open for trash, so I asked and an appropriate bin for plastics was provided. Note: I am hopeful educating people about proper disposables is effective. There was no bottle bin, so I took that home with me to properly dispose of. Upon getting home I recycled items from the day and put items in the recycle, paper and plastic bins. I agree with recycling but would also like to see more innovation in finding ways to be sustainable. People do not like change and change is only possible when there are options to replace unsustainability.
I drive by this sign almost daily at the gas station at the Prince Street mall but never really looked at it until today. (Photo credit: Polegatto, M.L.)
October 22, 2023, Sunday
Purchases:
- SPCA Thrift Store - craft supplies in ethical consumption.
- Value Village - check for any items I can recycle for art - nothing today. I don’t need to buy for the sake of buying.
- Running Man grocery - mandarin oranges in plastic cups - I can reuse the plastic cups for paint holders and the cardboard box for holding paint bottles. Dog treats in plastic bag - I placed the bag in plastic bin when I got home. We need more sustainable options than plastics. Plastic is a great invention but it feels like it has taken over the world.
 SPCA Thrift Shore craft purchase (ethical consumption). Photo credit: Polegatto, M.L. |  Plastic fruit cup used for a paint holder for crafts (photo credit: Polegatto, M.L.) |
Home:
News report on radio: Politicians are looking for food to not be taxed. I smell an election promise coming. What we need is food prices to lower so all people can afford to eat, less big pharma in our food and more home-grown gardens so climate change can relax so we can grow food without it flooding out, blowing away or being too hot out with heat warnings. It's a vicious cycle we are seeing more of as climate change increases its effects. Do you know what foods are taxed?
Observations: The rain had stopped but restarted as we headed to the ocean, so we decided to return for another trail which was closer. My dogs got to run faster, and we used less gas so less emissions for the atmosphere and hiking in nature is always revitalizing (voluntary simplicity).
- Pick tomatoes that ripened in the garden to eat instead of buying produce. Climate change did help the tomatoes with lots of rainwater this summer and they are still actively growing. I use my garden as my own market. One of my dreams is to have a year round green house to grow all kinds of foods.
- Use of reusable straw. I cut up plastic straws so they can't harm wildlife. I once saw a video of a straw being pulled out of the nose of a sea turtle once and it really changed my mind on some of the conveniences we have that negatively affect wildlife.
- Research ideas for tin cans to reuse instead of trashing them. I have used tin cans prior and decorated them with twine prior for different sizes to use to hold craft supplies such as paint brushes, tools, etc. Buying items can be reduced by reusing items instead or being creative in what we use an item for. Many items have multiple uses.
- Take plants inside to grow over winter: more oxygen in the house, less consumerism next year to buy more plants.
- Sweep up leaves on patio deck to add to compost area. Leave the leaves on the ground as small species live in them over winter and leaves contain nitrogen which is good for the ground. Less soil required to purchase next year.
- It is getting dark earlier so I moved more solar lights to the front of the house for solar lighting instead of consumption of electricity. Power is a product we consume a great deal of.
- Reading and watching videos to learn more education and ways to do better for Mother Nature.
News report on radio: Politicians are looking for food to not be taxed. I smell an election promise coming. What we need is food prices to lower so all people can afford to eat, less big pharma in our food and more home-grown gardens so climate change can relax so we can grow food without it flooding out, blowing away or being too hot out with heat warnings. It's a vicious cycle we are seeing more of as climate change increases its effects. Do you know what foods are taxed?
Observations: The rain had stopped but restarted as we headed to the ocean, so we decided to return for another trail which was closer. My dogs got to run faster, and we used less gas so less emissions for the atmosphere and hiking in nature is always revitalizing (voluntary simplicity).
 Ethical consumption = reusable straws (Photo credit: Polegatto, M.L.) |  Tin can recycled to storage. (Photo credit: Polegatto, M.L.) |
October 23, 2023, Monday
I looked at some of the flyers in my mailbox this week. Today is a no purchase day. I am enjoying relaxing at home and while I am not out in the hustle and bustle of shopping, ads to sell products are on the television too. I can switch them off by watching a movie instead to relax into another dimension.
 |  |  |
Canadian Tire, 2023; The Globe and Mail, 2023; Fast Furniture, 2023 (Photo credits: Polegatto, M.L.)
October 24, 2023, Tuesday
Purchase:
Sobeys CBU Students day today so today is grocery day. Sale signs are shown in one measurement, i.e., lb, but the weight is calculated on the package in kg. Signage makes the product appear cheaper. I found this misleading.
I saw an article today explaining why chicken is cheaper in the USA than Canada. "Canada subsidizes farmers by protecting them from competition and allowing them to charge higher prices" (Lev, 2023). I'm not against subsidizing farmers, the people that grow our food, but competition can lower prizes for consumers and with food prices rising, we need solutions not price hikes.
Amazon return packages clearance sale on social media is a form of hyperconsumption. It's hard to tell what scams are sometimes. I tried googling this and it did not come up. It is bad enough when I buy items I need let alone getting a pallet of items I don't even know what they will be - no purchase. As prices rise in the current economy, we need to be diligent against scams which seem to be on the rise.
I found some old man's beard on a tree tonight when walking the dogs (voluntary simplicity). Thank you, nature, for some free ethical consumption medicine. We need to learn more Indigenous knowledge of nature’s free medicines and resources instead of supporting the rising costs of big pharma and plastic waste it produces with bottles of chemicals that can help and sometimes harm.
Sobeys CBU Students day today so today is grocery day. Sale signs are shown in one measurement, i.e., lb, but the weight is calculated on the package in kg. Signage makes the product appear cheaper. I found this misleading.
I saw an article today explaining why chicken is cheaper in the USA than Canada. "Canada subsidizes farmers by protecting them from competition and allowing them to charge higher prices" (Lev, 2023). I'm not against subsidizing farmers, the people that grow our food, but competition can lower prizes for consumers and with food prices rising, we need solutions not price hikes.
Amazon return packages clearance sale on social media is a form of hyperconsumption. It's hard to tell what scams are sometimes. I tried googling this and it did not come up. It is bad enough when I buy items I need let alone getting a pallet of items I don't even know what they will be - no purchase. As prices rise in the current economy, we need to be diligent against scams which seem to be on the rise.
I found some old man's beard on a tree tonight when walking the dogs (voluntary simplicity). Thank you, nature, for some free ethical consumption medicine. We need to learn more Indigenous knowledge of nature’s free medicines and resources instead of supporting the rising costs of big pharma and plastic waste it produces with bottles of chemicals that can help and sometimes harm.
 Weekly special in price per lb but packaging shows price per kg., Sobeys, 2023 (Photo credit: Polegatto, M.L.) |  Old man's beard found on walk tonight = nature's free medicine. (Photo credit: Polegatto, M.L.) |
October 25, 2023, Wednesday
Purchase:
Reading the newspaper this morning - which I usually try to avoid due to doom and gloom, I noticed two (2) ads:
1. Chase the Ace which my team participates in. While we don't always think of lottery as consumerism or gambling, with the current economy, rising prices and interest rates, ticket sales may be a glimpse of hope, but only if you win and there is no guarantee.
2. Interest rates. I work in real estate law and while rates are rising, they are not near levels pre-covid. When I tell clients my first interest rate was 12% and that was a good deal, the first time home buyers are surprised given current rates. Bank of Canada announced today they are holding prime at 5%. Interest rates were as low as 1.89% during covid. This allowed people to spend more on home values and bidding wars; however, I have never seen rates that low in my history. Rates rose into 20% in the 1980s.
I was driving around looking for ideas of consumerism and took a picture of the Casino as a form of hyperconsumption today. I work too hard to spend my money gambling so I seldom go in unless it is to eat.
- Lawton's discount day: I don't need anything there so I will skip that tonight so there is no purchase of unnecessary items. Sometimes the best defense against shopping is just to abstain from doing it.
- Bulk Barn discount day: dried apricots and ginger.
Reading the newspaper this morning - which I usually try to avoid due to doom and gloom, I noticed two (2) ads:
1. Chase the Ace which my team participates in. While we don't always think of lottery as consumerism or gambling, with the current economy, rising prices and interest rates, ticket sales may be a glimpse of hope, but only if you win and there is no guarantee.
2. Interest rates. I work in real estate law and while rates are rising, they are not near levels pre-covid. When I tell clients my first interest rate was 12% and that was a good deal, the first time home buyers are surprised given current rates. Bank of Canada announced today they are holding prime at 5%. Interest rates were as low as 1.89% during covid. This allowed people to spend more on home values and bidding wars; however, I have never seen rates that low in my history. Rates rose into 20% in the 1980s.
I was driving around looking for ideas of consumerism and took a picture of the Casino as a form of hyperconsumption today. I work too hard to spend my money gambling so I seldom go in unless it is to eat.
Casinos are a form of hyperconsumption (photo credit: Polegatto, M.L.)
October 26, 2023, Thursday
No purchase day today. Instead I researched and came upon a visual on the illusion of the choices we have as consumers. While there are many products on the shelves, online or orderable as delivery, there are top producers of these brand products as noted in the picture below. Did you realize so much of the products we consume are created by so few companies? Does this change any of your consumption habits or thoughts? Are we building profits or would we prefer to support nature instead?
Illusions of Choice (Good Stuff, n.d.)
October 27, 2023, Friday
No purchase day today. Instead we are spending time going for a short drive in the neighborhood so the dogs get a change of scenery and some mental exercise. While we are putting gas emissions in the environment, it is getting too dark to walk by the time I get home from work. Tilly is my co pilot in the front seat with Bella riding in the back seat and sometimes they both steal the front seat together and refuse to move. Spending time with family is more important than consuming more products.
The flyers arrive in our mailbox each week so we take them inside to add them to our recycle bin. We have used them in the past for various reasons, including in the garden, to wrap items in, to protect surfaces when painting. I rarely read them now when they arrive to avoid the temptation of acquiring material things I do not need.
The flyers arrive in our mailbox each week so we take them inside to add them to our recycle bin. We have used them in the past for various reasons, including in the garden, to wrap items in, to protect surfaces when painting. I rarely read them now when they arrive to avoid the temptation of acquiring material things I do not need.
 |  |
Tilly: left; Bella: right - my two voluntary simplicity copilots (photo credit: Polegatto, ML.)
October 28, 2023, Saturday
Purchase:
Bargain Binz today to see what the deals for $3.00 are. I, like many others, walked from bin to bin and found some deals. I got items I did not go for but useful. The feeling was more of an flea market or auction with buyer frenzy. There were only at most a few of the same items so more frenzy to buy it as there was no coming back for an item. People were leaving with bags of items buying for deals of collaborative consumption.
Volunteer:
Fright Night at Two Rivers Wildlife Park. Cape Breton Search and Rescue are doing security at the event so I am on the list to go tonight. It is a beautiful day and night. Dressed in CBSAR gear, headlamp and boots, we spent the night in the woods on the trail with no purchases. It was a great night in the fresh air. There was a great amount of work put into the trail to set up for the event to last for three weeks. More than 1400 people of many different age groups came through nature tonight having fun while outside. While tickets were sold to attend the event, the event did not have any Vendors at the event, only fun. Voluntary simplicity walking in nature instead of going to the mall. Also, similar to a local festival, this is a form of relocalization with local live music and trail adventure.
Observations:
Fright Night at Two Rivers Wildlife Park: Proof that you can have a great time while outside in nature. Also proof that volunteering in nature is also a great time.
Bargain Binz today to see what the deals for $3.00 are. I, like many others, walked from bin to bin and found some deals. I got items I did not go for but useful. The feeling was more of an flea market or auction with buyer frenzy. There were only at most a few of the same items so more frenzy to buy it as there was no coming back for an item. People were leaving with bags of items buying for deals of collaborative consumption.
Volunteer:
Fright Night at Two Rivers Wildlife Park. Cape Breton Search and Rescue are doing security at the event so I am on the list to go tonight. It is a beautiful day and night. Dressed in CBSAR gear, headlamp and boots, we spent the night in the woods on the trail with no purchases. It was a great night in the fresh air. There was a great amount of work put into the trail to set up for the event to last for three weeks. More than 1400 people of many different age groups came through nature tonight having fun while outside. While tickets were sold to attend the event, the event did not have any Vendors at the event, only fun. Voluntary simplicity walking in nature instead of going to the mall. Also, similar to a local festival, this is a form of relocalization with local live music and trail adventure.
Observations:
Fright Night at Two Rivers Wildlife Park: Proof that you can have a great time while outside in nature. Also proof that volunteering in nature is also a great time.
Fright Night Ad (Credit: Two Rivers Wildlife Park, 2023)
October 29, 2023, Sunday
No purchase day today.
We switched from doing CSTN beach patrol to hiking closer to home in nature with the dogs. My vehicle had a flat tire and I don't want to go too far for risk of the tire blowing out. My favorite places are in nature. We saw so many fungi (see pictures below) in the forest on trees, ground and rocks, trees downed by Fiona Hurricane, heard squirrels chirping, traffic in the distance, pretty leaves, and acorns. We took many pictures as we walked. While all who wander are not lost - we were now lost and called for rescue. A great day of voluntary simplicity in hiking in nature except for getting lost.
Observations: While I was tired and sore, a day in nature was beneficial and refreshing to see the beauty and recharge. Voluntary simplicity turned education.
We switched from doing CSTN beach patrol to hiking closer to home in nature with the dogs. My vehicle had a flat tire and I don't want to go too far for risk of the tire blowing out. My favorite places are in nature. We saw so many fungi (see pictures below) in the forest on trees, ground and rocks, trees downed by Fiona Hurricane, heard squirrels chirping, traffic in the distance, pretty leaves, and acorns. We took many pictures as we walked. While all who wander are not lost - we were now lost and called for rescue. A great day of voluntary simplicity in hiking in nature except for getting lost.
Observations: While I was tired and sore, a day in nature was beneficial and refreshing to see the beauty and recharge. Voluntary simplicity turned education.
Hiking and photographing nature is one of my forms of voluntary simplicity or sense of self by hiking/walking and spending time in nature enjoying its beauty. (Photo credit: Polegatto, M.L.)
October 30, 2023, Monday
SPCA today to look for any items for ethical consumption to do crafts and recycle items - no finds today. I did notice SPCA has new signs for discount days for students and seniors.
Observation: Doing this journal has made me realize how over stimulated we are with offers to sell almost everywhere you look in society, except when I go deep into nature. No wonder nature is so refreshing. Not only is it relaxing, stimulating with green light instead of blue light and alive and teaming with life of species, it is free and is not in constant pursuit of selling itself for profit. Nature only wants to live.
Observation: Doing this journal has made me realize how over stimulated we are with offers to sell almost everywhere you look in society, except when I go deep into nature. No wonder nature is so refreshing. Not only is it relaxing, stimulating with green light instead of blue light and alive and teaming with life of species, it is free and is not in constant pursuit of selling itself for profit. Nature only wants to live.
 |  |
SPCA Thrift Store is an example of collaborative consumption. (Photo credit: Polegatto, M.L.)
October 31, 2023, Tuesday, Halloween
Purchase:
Sobeys CBU student day today. I noticed several signs to encourage shoppers to purchase:
I remember as kids, for Halloween trick or treating we had my grandmother’s wig and a red quilted suit that one of us wore on Halloween. I can still remember wearing it when it was my turn. The wig was itchy, but the suit was warm. Often we had snow Halloween night going with our snowmobile suits on.
Sobeys CBU student day today. I noticed several signs to encourage shoppers to purchase:
- Buy items to get items free sign
- Scene card for free points but you need to purchase product to get points
- Scene card plus Scotiabank Visa = 2 times the points
I remember as kids, for Halloween trick or treating we had my grandmother’s wig and a red quilted suit that one of us wore on Halloween. I can still remember wearing it when it was my turn. The wig was itchy, but the suit was warm. Often we had snow Halloween night going with our snowmobile suits on.
 |  |  |
Sobeys, 2023 (Photo credit: Polegatto, M.L.)
November 1, 2023, Wednesday
Today is Lawton's discount day but I don't need anything. I'm not going so I am not tempted into buying something.
I stopped at Bargain Binz on the way by since it is $4.00 day today. I looked at all the bins but had no desire to buy anything. Just because you find a deal, doesn't mean you need to buy it. We have enough demands on us already, such as cost of heating.
Power consumption is a growing concern globally.
There are forms of collaborative consumption like school buses, below, that we often do not realize are a form of products we consume for travel.
While grocery shopping is essential, there is a choice and Cash & Carry is not just for members but nonmembers also and offer cheaper prices. With the cost of essential items is rising, we can still do our part to shop smartly.
I stopped at Bargain Binz on the way by since it is $4.00 day today. I looked at all the bins but had no desire to buy anything. Just because you find a deal, doesn't mean you need to buy it. We have enough demands on us already, such as cost of heating.
Power consumption is a growing concern globally.
There are forms of collaborative consumption like school buses, below, that we often do not realize are a form of products we consume for travel.
While grocery shopping is essential, there is a choice and Cash & Carry is not just for members but nonmembers also and offer cheaper prices. With the cost of essential items is rising, we can still do our part to shop smartly.
 Buses = Collaborative Consumption. Photo credit: Polegatto, M.L. |  Cash & Carry is similar to a grocery store (collaborative consumption). Photo credit: Polegatto, M.L. |
November 2, 2023, Thursday
Shoppers discount day today: I don't need more water yet so I am going to skip going today.
There is not much chance you have missed one of the large screens around Sydney with Ads broadcasting and changing as you drive by or sit and wait for the traffic lights to turn green. While you are not shopping online in the traditional way on this screen in a hyperconsumption way, these screens display local businesses. The screens can also be a distraction but after being there for so long now, I barely notice them anymore.
There is not much chance you have missed one of the large screens around Sydney with Ads broadcasting and changing as you drive by or sit and wait for the traffic lights to turn green. While you are not shopping online in the traditional way on this screen in a hyperconsumption way, these screens display local businesses. The screens can also be a distraction but after being there for so long now, I barely notice them anymore.
Large Screen at Prince Street, Sydney displaying Ads. Photo credit: Polegatto, M.L.
I was in Home Depot tonight and I noticed the Black Friday deals have started. I didn't buy anything tonight. I did look online to see what the rest of the deals in the store are.
In the Dollar Stores both Halloween and Christmas decorations are in full bloom. Holiday products are coming available sooner each year. While I was looking at craft supplies, I was noticing the products that are plastic versus those that would be more sustainable for ethical consumption.
Tonight I noticed this art and craft show in Halifax on Facebook. This is a form of ethical consumption and relocalization. Free admission is a nice feature to bring people in to shop locally handmade items. Many of the items in craft shows are unique and support local crafters. While the craft supplies can be imported, the work is done by people we may already know.
In the Dollar Stores both Halloween and Christmas decorations are in full bloom. Holiday products are coming available sooner each year. While I was looking at craft supplies, I was noticing the products that are plastic versus those that would be more sustainable for ethical consumption.
Tonight I noticed this art and craft show in Halifax on Facebook. This is a form of ethical consumption and relocalization. Free admission is a nice feature to bring people in to shop locally handmade items. Many of the items in craft shows are unique and support local crafters. While the craft supplies can be imported, the work is done by people we may already know.
(Photo credit: Polegatto, M.L.)
November 3, 2023, Friday
I am losing the desire to shop but am enjoying this project as a form of a scavenger hunt to find signs, sales, ideas around town and online of consumerism. Being more conscious of consumerism and the effects it has on ourselves and the environment is a wake up reality.
Today the rain stopped to go into the garden for a walk and enjoy some sunshine. I checked on the tomatoes still growing, the compost bins and herbs growing. I love grocery shopping in my own backyard where the only cost is going outside in nature and reaping the rewards of harvest.
I did stop at Bargain Binz for the $2.00 day tonight on the way by from work but didn't buy anything. There were many consumers with arms full of deals.
Today the rain stopped to go into the garden for a walk and enjoy some sunshine. I checked on the tomatoes still growing, the compost bins and herbs growing. I love grocery shopping in my own backyard where the only cost is going outside in nature and reaping the rewards of harvest.
I did stop at Bargain Binz for the $2.00 day tonight on the way by from work but didn't buy anything. There were many consumers with arms full of deals.
 |  |  |
left: sweet million tomatoes, middle: herb, right: compost (photo credits: Polegatto, M.L.)
November 4, 2023, Saturday
Being an individual and having a sense of self is important and rewarding. I love being a beachcomber (individualism) and walking the beaches with my dogs (voluntary simplicity) instead of staying at home and shopping online (cocooning) or going to the mall (hyperconsumption). i haven't been inside a mall for months. I can't actually remember when I walked in the mall last.
Today we decided to skip out of town and enjoy nature. We did stop along the way for the convenience of hot coffee and snack along with a fill up of gas before travelled though town, past the Farmer's Market (relocalization, ethical consumption) and drove out of town. Living in the city has many conveniences for consumers but being deep in nature is a priceless necessity.
Today we decided to skip out of town and enjoy nature. We did stop along the way for the convenience of hot coffee and snack along with a fill up of gas before travelled though town, past the Farmer's Market (relocalization, ethical consumption) and drove out of town. Living in the city has many conveniences for consumers but being deep in nature is a priceless necessity.
 |  |  |
Gas station: left; Mall: middle; Farmer's Market: right. (Photo credit: Polegatto, M.L.)
The dogs were excited to go for a drive and land at the beaches we visited to do beach patrol, clean up pollution and mostly take in the smell of the sea air, hear the rocks rolling as the waves crash upon the shore and see the marvels in nature. The wind was in high force and surf was displaying white frothy bubbles as the dogs ran and played. After we checked the shores we ventured to the cranberry patch and were lucky to find it dry and ease to pick. While farmers markets are a great way to get local produce from local people, I have to say I have always considered the good life as consuming free berries and the revitalization of nature.
 |  |  |
Bottom: Belfry Beach: left; Morrison Beach: middle; cranberries: right. (Photo credit: Polegatto, M.L.)
November 5, 2023, Sunday
We often see consumerism as going to the mall and shopping but consumerism also includes our bigger purchases we can see as necessities, such as the purchase of a car, a house, a mortgage renewal, an investment, life insurance. Bank of Canada voices concerns about variable rate mortgage products -Bloomberg News.
This is a no purchase day as I am relaxing watching a movie, playing ball with my dogs and making decorations for Christmas and an upcoming craft show.
This is a no purchase day as I am relaxing watching a movie, playing ball with my dogs and making decorations for Christmas and an upcoming craft show.
 Handmade Xmas decorations - icicles that don't melt :) (Art/photo credit: Polegatto, M.L.) |  Craft made with recycled jeans - binder. (Art/photo credit: Polegatto, M.L.) |
November 6, 2023 Monday
No purchase day today. Work and then Cape Breton Search and Rescue meeting tonight.
During the day I was looking around at the items in my office and at home and realizing all of this stuff we use is all purchased, even the municipal water. We came into the world with nothing, leave with nothing but in between we accumulate so many products that are essentials, such as food, clothing, shelter, and then there are other items we think will make us happy to purchase and add to our home and many do add value to our lives, such as silverware to eat with and a bed to sleep in. But when you really look our lives are made up of acquired stuff that either gets passed around after we die or goes to the dump. Nothing we want, desire or cherish is a forever item any more than we are.
We are more like nature. It grows, it lives, it dies, it decomposes. And depending on your beliefs, we keep our soul, the vital essence of ourselves that is our life force that joins with the force that ignited the spark within us to live again. Is that not divine enough for us? And I do realize we like our clothes, keeping warm, to have a safe place to live and sleep at night. Have we lost touch with nature or really ourselves in competition to keep up with the Jones or in this economy just to live? For me, I've gone back into my frugal little bubble to spread joy, love for nature and animals and my family, making what I can, recycling and concentrating on being a better human than I was the day before - all of these things are free. Happiness comes from inside, not from products. Except if you're my dogs - then it comes from food, being in nature, and bouncy balls! :)
During the day I was looking around at the items in my office and at home and realizing all of this stuff we use is all purchased, even the municipal water. We came into the world with nothing, leave with nothing but in between we accumulate so many products that are essentials, such as food, clothing, shelter, and then there are other items we think will make us happy to purchase and add to our home and many do add value to our lives, such as silverware to eat with and a bed to sleep in. But when you really look our lives are made up of acquired stuff that either gets passed around after we die or goes to the dump. Nothing we want, desire or cherish is a forever item any more than we are.
We are more like nature. It grows, it lives, it dies, it decomposes. And depending on your beliefs, we keep our soul, the vital essence of ourselves that is our life force that joins with the force that ignited the spark within us to live again. Is that not divine enough for us? And I do realize we like our clothes, keeping warm, to have a safe place to live and sleep at night. Have we lost touch with nature or really ourselves in competition to keep up with the Jones or in this economy just to live? For me, I've gone back into my frugal little bubble to spread joy, love for nature and animals and my family, making what I can, recycling and concentrating on being a better human than I was the day before - all of these things are free. Happiness comes from inside, not from products. Except if you're my dogs - then it comes from food, being in nature, and bouncy balls! :)
Photo credit: Polegatto, M.L. (Belfry, Cape Breton, NS)
November 7, 2023, Tuesday
Today is Sobeys 20% off for CBU students’ day. I love deals so I was paying close attention to the sale stickers. Keep in mind not all sales are good deals. I noticed the smaller box on sale of Raisin Bran and Michelina’s were more expensive than the larger box not on sale overall. The Mr. Noodles at Sobeys was more expensive than similar product at the Dollarama at 3 pieces for $1.00.
In the newspaper today was the Glace Bay Minor Hockey winner of over $60,000.00. Now that’s a good deal if you can buy the winning ticket. The paper also made note of Taylor’s Swift’s new recording song and while it was not an ad to sell the song, it may entice people to buy to listen to the song since the hype is so good about her new recording.
In the newspaper today was the Glace Bay Minor Hockey winner of over $60,000.00. Now that’s a good deal if you can buy the winning ticket. The paper also made note of Taylor’s Swift’s new recording song and while it was not an ad to sell the song, it may entice people to buy to listen to the song since the hype is so good about her new recording.
 |  |
Sobeys, 2023 (Photo credit: Polegatto, M.L.)
 |  |
Sobeys, 2023 (Photo credit: Polegatto, M.L.)
 |  |
Cape Breton Post, 2023 (Photo credit: Polegatto, M.L.)
November 8, 2023, Wednesday
After working late tonight I was happy to find a similar bin to reburish at Value Village to make another cow design potato bin I previously made and sold. I need a whole herd of these to spread the love of cows around. I also found a handmade bed suitable for a cat or dog bed that I am going to paint for my next craft show and a tissue box cover (ethical consumption). Sometimes you need to see beauty in recycled things that still have lots of life left in them.
 Cow bin, photo/art credit: Polegatto, M.L. |  dog/cat bed and tissue cover, photo credit: Polegatto, M.L. |
November 9, 2023, Thursday
Today I took pictures in the Cape Breton Post of a craft show as an example of ethical consumption. I also found an add for $2,000 off hearing aids and while that sounds like an awesome deal, I don't know what the cost of a hearing aid is to confirm if this is a true deal. I was walking (voluntary simplicity) today on Charlotte Street and took a picture of Port City Grocery which I have shopped at (relocation, good life) - unfortunately it is temporarily closed.
Tonight, I need more water and it is Shopper’s Senior discount days. Although the lifting is a bit much for me, the deal is better. As a consumer, taking health chances for a better purchase is a sad state of the economy and what consumers feel is necessary.
Unfortunately in the Cape Breton Post today, I see that Canada falls short of carbon emission reduction targets :(.
Tonight, I need more water and it is Shopper’s Senior discount days. Although the lifting is a bit much for me, the deal is better. As a consumer, taking health chances for a better purchase is a sad state of the economy and what consumers feel is necessary.
Unfortunately in the Cape Breton Post today, I see that Canada falls short of carbon emission reduction targets :(.
 Cape Breton Post - Ethical consumption example (Photo credit: Polegatto, M.L.) |  Port City Grocery, 2023 - ethical consumption example (Photo credit: Polegatto, M.L.) |  Cape Breton Post (Photo credit: Polegatto, M.L.) |
Cape Breton Post Nov 9, 2023 - Carbon Emission Reduction Target = not reached :( (Photo credit: Polegatto, M.L.)
November 10, 2023, Friday
Today was a no shopping day. I saw the following flyer at work for Charlene's Nutrition Centre. 27 years in business is a great accomplishment. A testament to the support of consumers.
Observation: I walked downtown (voluntary simplicity) doing errands at work and noticed people walking and standing on the street curbs looking at their phones. I could not help but wonder if they shopping online?
Observation: I walked downtown (voluntary simplicity) doing errands at work and noticed people walking and standing on the street curbs looking at their phones. I could not help but wonder if they shopping online?
Charlene's Nutrition Centre, 2023 (Photo credit: Polegatto, M.L.)
November 11, 2023, Saturday
Remembrance Day is today. A day to stop and reflect on the lives that fell for our benefit to have freedom. I took the picture of the article in the Cape Breton Post this week. I have many relatives that have served through the years in the Army and Navy. This is definitely a no purchase day.
Cape Breton Post, 2023 (Photo credit: Polegatto, M.L.)
I saw an article on a Bill today to have producers make products that consumers can repair. Products were made when I was growing up as forever items with lasting quality. Today items are made with plastic parts that once are broken can not be fixed. It is part of the problem with the over consumption of the same items to replace ones that are poorly produced. We need to return to production of lasting products people need only buy once. We also need innovation to tackle recycling products that do not disintegrate such as rubber tires.
Quote credit: McCloy, 2023, Photo credit: Polegatto, M.L. (Morrison Beach, Cape Breton)
Alternative Ideas For Sustainability
Working on this blog would not be complete without offering some solutions and/or alternatives to the global over accumulation of products that is negatively affecting the planet.
These are just a few ideas I do. Can you think of more solutions? Feel free to share your solutions below this post in the comments.
- Find alternative uses for products.
- Get creative with products by reusing them in crafts.
- Plastic containers for fruit cups can be used as paint holders when doing art.
- Shred and compost your paper scraps.
- Used coffee grounds can be used in plants and compost.
- Recycle your food scraps.
- Go to second hand stores and find items you can use instead of buying new.
- Refurbish your furniture with new paint color or stain.
- Reuse wood pieces that you are discarding for new projects.
- Make a compost area in your backyard to make your own garden soil.
- Plant a garden to grow your own food.
- Grow plants specific for species in your area, ie butterflies, bees, birds, instead of having to travel long distances to nature to see these species.
- Think about your purchases and whether you really need them when buying.
- Grow your own fruit trees to produce fruit instead of buying.
- Pick berries in nature.
- Mason jars are versatile to use around the home and they are reusable.
- Make your own unique crafts and items. Homemade crafts are great gifts.
- Have no phone use times during the day and/or night.
- Buy from local farmers and artisans.
- Buy sustainable products.
- Join a group that supports sustainability.
- Go beachcombing and pick up trash on the shores.
These are just a few ideas I do. Can you think of more solutions? Feel free to share your solutions below this post in the comments.
Quote credit: McCloy, 2023; Photo credit: Polegatto, M.L. (Coxheath, NS)
It has been an interesting adventure looking into consumerism, consumption and materialism. I see a pattern. I shop for discount days and my dogs. My dogs and I are happiest when we go on voluntary simplicity hiking even when we go on long carbon emission drives to get to the wild of nature. We as consumers need to take a good look at what we are buying and why. Consumption of food is a necessity, and the cost is rising. Consumption of unnecessary items is also rising along with the cost of the items and the cost to our environment. Materialism is more about the stuff that only makes us happy for a fleeting moment until we can find another item to replace that. Instead of shopping for happiness, we need to realize happiness is inside of us. For me, happiness is in nature, spending time with the beauty of the natural world, the sounds of wildlife, my dogs happily playing and sleeping soundly on the drive home. Hopefully when I retire, I can move to the country so I need not drive a long distance dispensing carbon emissions into the environment but rather hear the sounds of waves crashing upon the shores.
While cocooning at home is akin to being a secret shopper, the waste on our planet is no secret. Getting out to enjoy the good life at farmer markets can cut down on carbon emissions and have fresher products at home in the pursuit of relocalisation and collaborative consumption. While we can enjoy individualism, we can still enjoy our lives while being sustainable with ethical consumption. That is not to say we can not do hyperconsumption with the illusions of choice in front of us. We simply need to make more informed choices on where our products are landing after our use. Instead of building piles of junk for the future we need to build relationships and connections with nature and species.
Do you notice the signs, billboards, Ads that are all around you everyday as to go to work, go for a drive, walk, bike, jog around town? Have you counted them to see how many you can count? I was surprised at how many signs are around me daily that I do not even intentionally pay attention to. After doing this blog, I have paid more attention to the offers to purchase items and am glad to be home in my pajamas relaxing instead of out shopping.
While cocooning at home is akin to being a secret shopper, the waste on our planet is no secret. Getting out to enjoy the good life at farmer markets can cut down on carbon emissions and have fresher products at home in the pursuit of relocalisation and collaborative consumption. While we can enjoy individualism, we can still enjoy our lives while being sustainable with ethical consumption. That is not to say we can not do hyperconsumption with the illusions of choice in front of us. We simply need to make more informed choices on where our products are landing after our use. Instead of building piles of junk for the future we need to build relationships and connections with nature and species.
Do you notice the signs, billboards, Ads that are all around you everyday as to go to work, go for a drive, walk, bike, jog around town? Have you counted them to see how many you can count? I was surprised at how many signs are around me daily that I do not even intentionally pay attention to. After doing this blog, I have paid more attention to the offers to purchase items and am glad to be home in my pajamas relaxing instead of out shopping.
Quote credit: McCloy, 2023; Photo credit: Polegatto, M.L. (Belfry, Cape Breton, NS)
Further Resources
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
| | |
| | |
References
Arnould , E., Thompson, C. J., Crockett, D., & Weinberger, M. F. (Eds.). (2023, September 27). Consumer culture theory paperback – Nov. 13 2023. Amazon.ca. https://www.amazon.ca/Consumer-Culture-Theory-Eric-Arnould/dp/1529609259
Discovering Earth. (2020, July 14). Good practices for sustainable consumption: JDUY planet (part 2). YouTube. https://youtu.be/qw4xmW-ZAFc?si=dVZMKSFfRG7kc4K
Elgin, D. (2010, January 5). Voluntary Simplicity Second revised edition: Toward a way of life that is outwardly simple, inwardly rich: Elgin, Duane: 9780061779268: Books. Voluntary Simplicity Second Revised Edition: Toward a Way of Life That Is Outwardly Simple, Inwardly Rich: Elgin, Duane: 9780061779268: Books - Amazon.ca. https://www.amazon.ca/Voluntary-Simplicity-Second-Revised-Outwardly/dp/0061779261/ref=asc_df_0061779261&mcid=e94bce54b5783bff831168fadd133831?tag=bingshopdesk-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=80401879906255&hvnetw=o&hvqmt=e&hvbmt=be&hvdev=c&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=&hvtargid=pla-4584001432717929&psc=1
Harris, M. (2021, December 28). All we want: Building the life we cannot buy Kindle edition - amazon.ca. Amazon.ca. https://www.amazon.ca/All-We-Want-Purpose-Consumerism-ebook/dp/B08HL63YR7
Hastings, G. (2022, April 2). Hyperconsumption: Corporate marketing vs. the planet: Hastings, Gerard: 9781032214702: Books. Hyperconsumption: Corporate Marketing vs. the Planet: Hastings, Gerard: 9781032214702: Books - Amazon.ca. https://www.amazon.ca/Hyperconsumption-Corporate-Marketing-vs-Planet/dp/1032214708/ref=sr_1_1?crid=92ZTJ0HWFQ8C&keywords=hyperconsumption&qid=1699904714&s=books&sprefix=hyperconsu%2Cstripbooks%2C319&sr=1-1
Hiller, A. (2023, April 11). Ethical consumption: A research overview: Hiller, alex, Goworek, Helen: 9781032160634: Books. Ethical Consumption: A Research Overview: Hiller, Alex, Goworek, Helen: 9781032160634: Books - Amazon.ca. https://www.amazon.ca/Ethical-Consumption-Research-Alex-Hiller/dp/1032160632/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1JS00QMT23EYH&keywords=ethical%2Bconsumption&qid=1699905092&s=books&sprefix=hyperconsumptio%2Cstripbooks%2C1548&sr=1-1
Home Depot Flyer (Nov. 2, 2023) >> explore all these ⚡special⚡ Canadian deals!. Flyerbox.ca. (n.d.). https://www.flyerbox.ca/home-depot/weekly-flyer-circulaire-from-thursday-02-11-2023-66064/
India, P. T. of. (2023, November 1). India’s power consumption grows nearly 22% to 138.94 billion units in October. Firstpost. https://www.firstpost.com/india/indias-power-consumption-grows-nearly-22-to-138-94-billion-units-in-october-13331012.html
Jeremy. (2023, April 28). Are groceries taxable in Canada? understanding when GST/HST applies on grocery purchases. Jeremy Scott Tax Law. https://jeremyscott.ca/gst-hst-on-groceries/
Let’s Change. (2017, February 20). 2030- SDG 12- responsible consumption and production- Ted Talks. YouTube. https://youtu.be/dR0dzsFxjXc?si=EDo5wx-gw9DNn30T
McCloy, J. (2023, July 7). 64 best quotes about sustainability (including inspiring, funny & short). Green Coast. https://greencoast.org/quotes-about-sustainability/
McNalty, S. (2023, November 9). Looking for a fix: Canadian bill boosts right to repair movement | CBC News. CBCnews. https://www.cbc.ca/news/science/what-on-earth-right-to-repair-canada-1.7023762
Mulligan, Martin. (2015). An introduction to sustainability : environmental, social and personal perspectives. Routledge, Taylor & Francis Group.
New Dream. (2011a, September 15). Visualizing a plenitude economy. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HR-YrD_KB0M
New Dream. (2011, December 5). The high price of materialism. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oGab38pKscw
Polegatto, M. L. (2023a). Photography. Maria Lisa Polegatto.
Shotton, R. (2023, March 28). The illusion of choice: 16 1/2 psychological biases that influence what we buy: Shotton, Richard: 9780857199744: Books. The Illusion of Choice: 16 ½ psychological biases that influence what we buy: Shotton, Richard: 9780857199744: Books - Amazon.ca. https://www.amazon.ca/Illusion-Choice-psychological-biases-influence/dp/0857199749/ref=sr_1_1?crid=OFFEL08HPLS2&keywords=illusions%2Bof%2Bchoice%2Brichard&qid=1699904448&s=books&sprefix=illusions%2Bof%2Bchoice%2Brichard%2Cstripbooks%2C87&sr=1-1
The Illusion of Choice. Good Stuff. (n.d.). https://www.jamesgood.co.uk/blog/illusion-choice
What Can You Do. (2017b, August 25). SDG 12 responsible consumption and production. YouTube. https://youtu.be/KFkM-s6hBsM?si=1S9IL8AOdTbrspRk
Yahoo! (2023, November 3). Bank of Canada voices concerns about variable rate mortgage products -Bloomberg News. Yahoo! Finance. https://ca.finance.yahoo.com/news/bank-canadas-rogers-urges-shift-213652031.html
Yahoo! (2023, October 23). Grocery prices in Canada: Why chicken is so much more expensive here than in the U.S. Yahoo! News. https://ca.news.yahoo.com/grocery-prices-in-canada-chicken-price-us-215333586.html
Discovering Earth. (2020, July 14). Good practices for sustainable consumption: JDUY planet (part 2). YouTube. https://youtu.be/qw4xmW-ZAFc?si=dVZMKSFfRG7kc4K
Elgin, D. (2010, January 5). Voluntary Simplicity Second revised edition: Toward a way of life that is outwardly simple, inwardly rich: Elgin, Duane: 9780061779268: Books. Voluntary Simplicity Second Revised Edition: Toward a Way of Life That Is Outwardly Simple, Inwardly Rich: Elgin, Duane: 9780061779268: Books - Amazon.ca. https://www.amazon.ca/Voluntary-Simplicity-Second-Revised-Outwardly/dp/0061779261/ref=asc_df_0061779261&mcid=e94bce54b5783bff831168fadd133831?tag=bingshopdesk-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=80401879906255&hvnetw=o&hvqmt=e&hvbmt=be&hvdev=c&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=&hvtargid=pla-4584001432717929&psc=1
Harris, M. (2021, December 28). All we want: Building the life we cannot buy Kindle edition - amazon.ca. Amazon.ca. https://www.amazon.ca/All-We-Want-Purpose-Consumerism-ebook/dp/B08HL63YR7
Hastings, G. (2022, April 2). Hyperconsumption: Corporate marketing vs. the planet: Hastings, Gerard: 9781032214702: Books. Hyperconsumption: Corporate Marketing vs. the Planet: Hastings, Gerard: 9781032214702: Books - Amazon.ca. https://www.amazon.ca/Hyperconsumption-Corporate-Marketing-vs-Planet/dp/1032214708/ref=sr_1_1?crid=92ZTJ0HWFQ8C&keywords=hyperconsumption&qid=1699904714&s=books&sprefix=hyperconsu%2Cstripbooks%2C319&sr=1-1
Hiller, A. (2023, April 11). Ethical consumption: A research overview: Hiller, alex, Goworek, Helen: 9781032160634: Books. Ethical Consumption: A Research Overview: Hiller, Alex, Goworek, Helen: 9781032160634: Books - Amazon.ca. https://www.amazon.ca/Ethical-Consumption-Research-Alex-Hiller/dp/1032160632/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1JS00QMT23EYH&keywords=ethical%2Bconsumption&qid=1699905092&s=books&sprefix=hyperconsumptio%2Cstripbooks%2C1548&sr=1-1
Home Depot Flyer (Nov. 2, 2023) >> explore all these ⚡special⚡ Canadian deals!. Flyerbox.ca. (n.d.). https://www.flyerbox.ca/home-depot/weekly-flyer-circulaire-from-thursday-02-11-2023-66064/
India, P. T. of. (2023, November 1). India’s power consumption grows nearly 22% to 138.94 billion units in October. Firstpost. https://www.firstpost.com/india/indias-power-consumption-grows-nearly-22-to-138-94-billion-units-in-october-13331012.html
Jeremy. (2023, April 28). Are groceries taxable in Canada? understanding when GST/HST applies on grocery purchases. Jeremy Scott Tax Law. https://jeremyscott.ca/gst-hst-on-groceries/
Let’s Change. (2017, February 20). 2030- SDG 12- responsible consumption and production- Ted Talks. YouTube. https://youtu.be/dR0dzsFxjXc?si=EDo5wx-gw9DNn30T
McCloy, J. (2023, July 7). 64 best quotes about sustainability (including inspiring, funny & short). Green Coast. https://greencoast.org/quotes-about-sustainability/
McNalty, S. (2023, November 9). Looking for a fix: Canadian bill boosts right to repair movement | CBC News. CBCnews. https://www.cbc.ca/news/science/what-on-earth-right-to-repair-canada-1.7023762
Mulligan, Martin. (2015). An introduction to sustainability : environmental, social and personal perspectives. Routledge, Taylor & Francis Group.
New Dream. (2011a, September 15). Visualizing a plenitude economy. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HR-YrD_KB0M
New Dream. (2011, December 5). The high price of materialism. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oGab38pKscw
Polegatto, M. L. (2023a). Photography. Maria Lisa Polegatto.
Shotton, R. (2023, March 28). The illusion of choice: 16 1/2 psychological biases that influence what we buy: Shotton, Richard: 9780857199744: Books. The Illusion of Choice: 16 ½ psychological biases that influence what we buy: Shotton, Richard: 9780857199744: Books - Amazon.ca. https://www.amazon.ca/Illusion-Choice-psychological-biases-influence/dp/0857199749/ref=sr_1_1?crid=OFFEL08HPLS2&keywords=illusions%2Bof%2Bchoice%2Brichard&qid=1699904448&s=books&sprefix=illusions%2Bof%2Bchoice%2Brichard%2Cstripbooks%2C87&sr=1-1
The Illusion of Choice. Good Stuff. (n.d.). https://www.jamesgood.co.uk/blog/illusion-choice
What Can You Do. (2017b, August 25). SDG 12 responsible consumption and production. YouTube. https://youtu.be/KFkM-s6hBsM?si=1S9IL8AOdTbrspRk
Yahoo! (2023, November 3). Bank of Canada voices concerns about variable rate mortgage products -Bloomberg News. Yahoo! Finance. https://ca.finance.yahoo.com/news/bank-canadas-rogers-urges-shift-213652031.html
Yahoo! (2023, October 23). Grocery prices in Canada: Why chicken is so much more expensive here than in the U.S. Yahoo! News. https://ca.news.yahoo.com/grocery-prices-in-canada-chicken-price-us-215333586.html
Design credit: WordArt, Words input: Polegatto, M.L.
RSS Feed