Ethical shopping may seem like a difficult thing to get started with. Fortunately, by following a few simple tips, you can make a genuine difference and create a happier world, one purchase at a time.
How to Get Started with Ethical Shopping
Research the Materials Used in the Products
Cotton is a commonly used fabric but growing it can be unethical as it requires a lot of water and chemicals to grow. While organic cotton is a more sustainable choice, it would be a perfect combo fit with recycled cotton.
Organic linen and hemp require very minimal water and pesticides to grow and as a bonus, they are biodegradable!
Bamboo is fast-growing and requires very little water, pesticide, or labor making it ideal for shoppers on the hunt for sustainable options.
Beware of Shopping in Excess
Reducing consumption and spending can help you save money and is also beneficial to the planet.
The goal is to purchase things you need and keep spending to a minimum, which will reduce your ecological footprint. If you want to add new items to your closet and home, try buying through the second-hand economy. Not only will you be able to get products at a fraction of the price, but it keeps carbon emissions down when we reuse instead of buying new (because that requires new products to be made).
You can buy luxury goods in the secondhand economy through sites like The RealReal and everyday items through sites like ThredUp, OfferUp, Mercari, Poshmark, and Facebook Marketplace!
Buy from Trusted Brands
Many ethical brands are dedicated to sustainable production methods, embracing equity in human rights, and ensuring fair pay practices.
Most ethical shopping product guides recommend buying from brands that are certified by trusted associations.
Here are a few certifications you can look for to help you get started with ethical shopping:
- Cruelty-Free, by the Cruelty-Free International
- Organic by the Soil Association
- Fairtrade, certified by the Fairtrade Foundation
- Vegan by the Vegan Society
You can also look for companies that are B. Corp certified which means they take an approach that balances people and the planet with profits.
Avoid Wearing Brands That Do Not Comply with Standards
Researching how to get started with ethical shopping will often showcase brands or companies that don’t comply with worker safety and welfare needs, environmental concerns, and sustainable production methods.
There are dozens of lists that provide a comprehensive directory of brands and companies you may want to avoid buying from due to violations of ethical operating practices.
Ethical shopping and consumption transcend beyond just what and where you buy; it involves being an active citizen, keeping up to date with local and global issues, and getting involved in ethical consumer campaigns where you live.
Recycling your sneakers is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and support a circular economy. Our mission is to inspire the sneaker community to recycle and reuse quality pre-owned sneakers helping to keep the shoes out of landfills while also reducing the toxic chemicals that release into the air and soil.
Consider hosting a GetSneakers drive to commit to environmental accountability and sustainable practices.