When I write these posts and sometimes talk about the different processes a product must go through to get to us, I’m doing a lot of educated guessing. I actually think it would be awesome to have a show or a book that really took an audience on the actual journey–the entire journey– that a product goes through to get to a consumer. So many mind-numbing shows out there; let’s start creating and demanding ones that add value to our world.
I think something that shows a product’s journey from start to finish (and even its afterlife) would be a priceless addition to a child’s library or a mandatory school program, but also extremely important for the public at large.
Unfortunately, I often carry a feeling of guilt when I think of all a product has gone through. I think of the travel pollution and the natural resources used and the factory pollution into our air or waterways. I cringe when I see boxes piled on doorsteps or walk into a big box store, as I think of the negative impact all these products have had on our environment. I know I’m in the minority on this, but I do seriously carry a load of guilt whenever I buy or receive something.
BUT, I think a far better approach, really, for whatever side a person is on—feeling this tremendous guilt or not thinking about it at all–is for us to look at all of what products go through to get to us and use that as a way of gaining a greater appreciation for them. When we can really value all that something went through to be made and assembled and transported, then we can feel a connectedness and a gratitude we might not otherwise know. And only then, will we really be aware of its value.
Instead of saying things like, “Well, it didn’t cost much, so it doesn’t matter if it breaks.” or “I couldn’t find the one I had, so I bought another one.” or “A newer model came out, so this one isn’t good anymore.” Hopefully, we can instead know the true cost and true value of each product. We will appreciate what we have. Buy higher quality items from companies with fair and good manufacturing practices–Demand that, in fact. Mend and fix broken items, instead of throwing them out. Share with our friends and neighbors, so we’re not each buying our own high-ticket items that sit unused for most of the year. Gaining appreciation for our food and products is one of the keys to making a big difference in helping our world.
By simply becoming more aware of our products’ journeys, we will start building this appreciation and changing our habits. Your actions can and will make a difference!