Sustainable consumption: nearing the tipping point?

If everyone in the world consumed at the average rate we do in the UK, we would need three planets, not one, this report cautions. And time is running out. Scientists say we have just ten years to take the action necessary to move to ‘one planet living’ and prevent catastrophic climate change. The great thing about I will if you will is that it puts consumers – the general public that is – back at the heart of this action, by connecting consumer drivers with the big sustainability issues.

The report’s approach is empowering because it sets out simple steps and actions that remind people that even as individuals they can and do make a difference. It also recognises that the government needs to create ‘a supportive framework’ that makes it easy for people and companies to make sustainable choices.

However I will if you will has a classic Catch-22 at its heart – what if they won’t? Are we nearing the tipping point at which public support is strong enough for governments to bring in the sorts of reform and regulation at the scale required to ensure the long-term sustainability? Time will tell, but time is short.

I will – if you will

The Sustainable Consumption Roundtable published its final report on May 1, I will if you will. The roundtable, a joint effort of the Sustainable Development Commission and the National Consumer Council and co-chaired by SABMiller’s Alan Knight, concluded that consumers are ready and willing to make ethical choices but need strong leadership from government and business.

Among other recommendations, the report calls on government to collaborate with businesses in expanding the markets for high-impact products such as energy efficient lighting, low-carbon cars, and low-energy home entertainment.

Former environment secretary Margaret Beckett welcomed the report, saying: “This is an issue for us all; business, industry, individuals and government all share a responsibility to use our power as consumers to reduce our impact on the planet.” Contact SDC 020 7238 4995 www.sd-commission.org.uk