The concept of “sustainable consumption” can, in a way, be seen as a paradox, as “sustainability” involves conserving resources, while “consumption” often implies using them up. All forms of consumption impact the environment, but sustainable development does allow for a certain level of environmental impact. Thus, striving for sustainable consumption is both possible and necessary. However, further research is needed to define what this kind of consumption might look like and how it can be achieved.
Achieving environmental goals requires a combination of technological advancements and behavior change. Improving product efficiency is important, but sufficiency strategies (in Swedish) [13] are also crucial. Reducing the demand for certain products and services is as essential as making them more efficient. This approach is necessary to avoid the negative rebound effects that often occur as a consequence of efficiency improvements alone.
About author:
Göran Finnveden
Program Director and Professor in Environmental Strategic Analysis at the Department of Sustainable Development, Environmental Sciences and Engineering (SEED), KTH, Stockholm
My research is focused on sustainable consumption, circular economy and methods for environmental and sustainability assessments of different types of products and systems. In the program I am the director and also leading a project on sustainable consumption and macro-economic effects.
