Before You Buy that New iPod…

I just stumbled upon this 20 minute film about consumerism in America and its effects on the world we live in. I know it’s a bit long for our point-and-click age, but I urge you to take the time to check it out. The Story of Stuff talks about the things we buy – where they come from, what cost they have to the Earth and the people on it, and what happens when we are through with them.

After downsizing massively to move overseas, and then downsizing again to live in our small city loft, this really hit home with me. I get caught up in the consumer race as much as the next person. I enjoy shopping (in small doses) and I like having nice, new things. But the truth is, we need to stop and think about the cost of those shiny, new items, and I’m not talking about the price tag. We need to think about the total cost of the goods we buy.

After checking out the film, have a look at The Story of Stuff website, for more information and more films about consumerism and the stuff we think we need.