Educação Financeira Consumismo X Consumo consciente

Understanding Consumerism

Introduction to Consumerism

• Tostão introduces the topic of consumerism, highlighting the vast amount of consumption produced daily and its implications on a global scale.

• Distinction is made between consumption (necessary for survival) and consumerism (excessive and alienated consumption), tracing its roots back to the Industrial Revolution.

The Impact of Consumerism

• A survey from the Acato Institute reveals that 76% of Brazilians do not practice conscious consumption, influenced by societal associations of consumerism with happiness and satisfaction.

• Companies are criticized for promoting unnecessary consumption through persuasive advertising, prioritizing profit over social responsibility.

• The consequences of consumerism include environmental degradation (waste production, pollution) and social issues (loss of relationships based on material possessions).

Becoming a Conscious Consumer

Defining Conscious Consumption

• Eboleto introduces alternatives to reduce excessive consumption, emphasizing the importance of becoming a conscious consumer who considers environmental and social factors in purchasing decisions.

Principles of Conscious Consumption

• A conscious consumer evaluates products based on their impact on human health, animal welfare, fair labor practices, as well as price and brand reputation.

• Key principles include reducing waste, recycling materials, and reusing items instead of opting for disposable products.

Practical Steps Towards Conscious Consumption

• Suggestions for consumers include planning shopping trips effectively and supporting companies that prioritize social and environmental responsibility.