The other morning, I authored a post on here about diverting our consumerism to more natural products, more organic products, greening our buys, etc. etc., but according to a recent Washington Post article, my musings seem at first seem misguided or bad advice. However, after reading the whole article, I can say it wasn’t bad advice and I agree with the article… for the most part.

Here’s a snippet:

Which is why, when wannabe environmentalists try to change purchasing habits without also altering their consumer mind-set, something gets lost in translation.

Polyester = bad. Solution? Throw out the old wardrobe and replace with natural fibers!

Linoleum = bad. Solution? Rip up the old floor and replace with cork!

Out with the old, in with the green.

Obviously no true environmentalist would suggest replacing every aspect of your life with new, natural versions, that’s a waste. But there are products we use everyday and we have to replace often, like food, cosmetics and cleaning supplies. I have always lived by the mantra: ‘If you have it, use it’ meaning don’t just throw something away to buy something new. Case in point: decided to start using more natural commercial cleaners, or better yet, baking soda and vinegar instead of softscrub? Well, don’t think you’re doing the environment a favor by just throwing the whole unused bottle away, it has already been produced and will end up back in the environment anyway, so use the rest, don’t waste it. Besides being a waste of money, it’s a waste of resources.

Which leads me back to my original post. To clear up my earlier rant, the point is if you’re going to buy particular products anyway, opt for ones that are more natural and devoid of harsh, un-green chemicals. And if you’re looking for a new shirt or pair of jeans anyway, look for one using organic cotton or at least something more environmentally friendly.

Treehugger also point out some glaring errors in the authors writing, among some poor jokes, but in the end also agrees with the general sentiment of the article: we should be consuming less. I agree, but we should also be consuming smarter.