What is the cost of our consumption?

Our passion for consumption also has a downside: What are the consequences of our growing consumption?

Graphic:Polygraph Design

Mountains of waste are growing; we are consuming more and more natural resources and emitting more and more greenhouse gases. At the same time, an increasing number of people in disadvantaged countries also wants to enjoy prosperity. However, it would take over three earths’ worth of resources for the 7.5 billion people worldwide to live like we do in Berlin.

Less is not easy

Growth as an idea is firmly implanted in our minds. Whether in your own career, your circle of friends or your bank account: more is a sign of success. This often conflicts with many people's desire to live more sustainably. Usually, the good intentions remain. In research, this phenomenon is referred to as the value-action gap. There are many reasons for this.

THINKING SPACE HUMAN

BEHIND THE SCENES OF CONSUMPTION

In the 20th century, consumerism reached the masses: many items that had once been luxuries – be they vehicles or clothing – became commodities for everyone. The trade and distribution of goods...