Drivers of consumption

• needs (body and soul)

• self esteem

• social recognition

• inclusion

• status

• a buzz

It makes no sense to criticise consumption

Only way is to address the needs and drivers with alternative fulfillment

Ideas for alternative fulfillment

• reduce inequality and poverty

• address media stigmatisation of poverty

• public spaces to build community

• carry out community activities

• appreciate diversity of people ⇒ inclusion

2Consumption rethought

Consumption does not equal buying

self providing (“prosumer”) makes people appreciate

• quality

• time

• sovereignty

• skills

• sharing/locality/mesoform of socio-economic relations

self-providing makes happy and frames sufficiency in a positive narrative

Services to humans are o.k.

The value chain thing

• awareness is needed

• shorter chains are better

• it would be good if people have choice and knowledge on provenience of products and processes

Products should

• be durable

• be repairable

• have no inbuilt obsolescence

• have high quality

• are worth appreciating and handing down

• fulfill ecological and social standards