The oncept of a Conscious Purchase in the Store - Essay Example

Precis: Good Stuff? The article Good Stuff written by the Worldwatch Institute is aimed at aiding consumers in making informed choices while purchasing, using and disposing of goods. The use of appliances has increased tremendously in the past decades with a higher penetration in developing countries. It is noble to check the rates of energy consumption when purchasing appliances and electronics such as refrigerators, dishwashers iron boxes and so forth. More power is saved when the appliances are switched off when not in use.

The article goes on further to explain to the reader more purchase decisions as described below. The article talks about how children are a bunch of joy and every parent would wish to provide safety to their newborns, and advices readers that when expecting a child, one should avoid purchasing products that would compromise the health of the child. Toys that contain polyvinylchloride could alter the normal functions of the child. Wipers containing alcohol may harm the delicate skin of the baby while non-degradable diapers could lead to a burden on landfills.

The mother is also advised to lessen the exposure to foods containing many chemicals such as those grown with fertilizers. Toxins and other harmful substances could be passed from the mother to the child. When purchasing beverages one is encouraged to purchase larger cans that can be reused instead of using a one-time can. Recycling of plastics and glasses saves a lot of energy and reduces pollution as well as landfills. The article further explains the use of cars, trucks and bicycles, which are all automobiles that aid in the movement of people and goods.

In developed economies like the USA, more than 60% of households own private vehicles. A private car consumes three times more fuel than a public vehicle. Automobiles are a major source of pollution, it is encouraging that countries such as Denmark have shifted gears and are urging the population to use alternative means such as walking and cycling (World Watch Institute 6). The manufacturing of CDs and DVDs consumes natural resources and energy. Since the introduction of CDs in 1983, tons of them have been produced but very few have been recycled.

Before purchasing this disk first, check out the information you require from the internet to avoid unnecessary build-up. Phones and computers are important gadgets as far as communication is concerned, however, they pose a great risk to the environment. Caution should be exercised when children are exposed to the use of mobile phones as they pose a health risk. When purchasing a computer look out for a manufacturer who takes them back when old at a fee to encourage recycling. According to the article, electricity production is the main cause of industrial air pollution.

To minimize the consumption of power switch off appliances that are not in use including lighting. Encourage the wider community to switch to green power, which is less pollutant (World Watch Institute 20) An existing slogan “You are what you eat”, encourages people to practice healthy eating habits. Most urban centres record high cases of obesity compared to remote rural places. The consumption of fast foods leads to the accumulation of unnecessary fats, salts and toxins (World Watch Institute 15) Economic activities such as mining and timber production pose a great risk to the environment.

Timber is used to manufacture furniture as well as paper. Learn to purchase stationeries that are recyclable to minimize the cutting of trees (World Watch Institute 23). Hardwood furniture from trees and cutting indigenous trees may lead to their extinguishment since they take many years to mature (World Watch Institute 16). It is encouraged that one buy soaps that do not contain triclosan and other antimicrobial agents. Work CitedWorld Watch Institute. Good Stuff. World Watch Institute. 2004. Print