We can all help protect the environment by becoming responsible consumers and supporting businesses that follow environmentally friendly policies. If you watch TV, you may notice an increase in television commercials that emphasize environmentally conscious decisions by manufacturers in terms of "going green." New government policies are also starting to mandate more environmentally conscious practices such as reducing car emissions, creating and incorporating products that promote energy conservation, and investing in renewable energy sources to reduce consumption of fossil fuels. Are you willing to be an ecologically friendy consumer? In this Discussion, you will consider what your role is and can be in becoming a responsible consumer to help support the environment and the sustainability of future generations.
To prepare for this Discussion:
- Review the three Web sites-Caring Consumer, Practical Environmentalist, and Pristine Planet-on environmentally friendly and ethical businesses, located in the Learning Resources.
- On these sites, determine what businesses, on a local, national, or international level, you already know of or recognize that follow environmentally friendly practices, what those practices are, and how they improve the environment.
- Reflect on how you can develop consumer habits that meet your needs while simultaneously protecting the environment.
An explanation of at least three changes you can make to your daily routine to become a more responsible consumer. How easy or difficult might you find it to make these changes? Provide at least three businesses that follow environmentally friendly policies. Alternatively treat three unfriendly businesses. Discuss why you believe these businesses are or are not eco-friendly.