As we all head into a new year of promise I thought it was an appropriate time to revisit the Non-Consumption Train list again. In our household we don’t always live by the list but it is becoming more and more part of our lives.
- Is this purchase something I need?
- Do I already own something that will serve the same purpose?
- Can I borrow one instead of buying new?
- Can I make something that will serve the same purpose?
- Can I buy a used one?
- Would someone be willing to split the cost and share this with me?
- Can I buy or commission one made locally?
- Can I buy one that was made with environmentally responsible materials?
- Can I buy one that serves more than one purpose?
- Can I get something human powered instead of gas or electric?
- Can I compost or recycle it when I’m done with it?
- What is the impact on the environment of the full life cycle of it?
- Does the manufacture or disposal of it damage the environment?
http://www.care2.com/greenliving/get-on-board-the-non-consumption-train.html
My favourite question at the moment is “Do I already own something that will serve the same purpose?” It is amazing how asking that one question can significantly reduce the need to shop.