Human Behavior Toward Climate Change: Unraveling Consumerism and Environmental Responsiveness

Climate change has become a pressing global issue that demands urgent resolution. While many natural factors contribute to climate change, evidence indicates that humans play a significant role in accelerating this process. In this narrative, we will explore how modern human consumption behavior, marketing messages influencing purchasing decisions, and the tendency for unnecessary shopping (consumerism) all contribute to worsening climate change. Additionally, we will offer suggestions on how purchasing quality products and supporting environmentally friendly producers can be part of the solution to this problem.

Climate Change Due to Human Behavior

Climate change results from increased greenhouse gas emissions, such as carbon dioxide (CO2), which accelerate global warming. Human activities, such as burning fossil fuels for transportation, industry, and energy use, are the primary causes of this increase in emissions. Additionally, deforestation caused by human activities reduces nature's ability to absorb CO2 from the atmosphere. Thus, humans are directly responsible for the increased greenhouse gas emissions that cause damaging climate change.

Modern human consumerism, driven by a culture of continuous consumption promoting the ownership of new items and excessive consumption, also exacerbates climate change. Modern society is often trapped in a cycle of impulsive shopping and tempted to buy things they don't really need. This leads to increased production of goods, which in turn raises CO2 emissions during the production, packaging, and distribution processes.

Enticing Marketing Messages to Buy Products

Industries use enticing marketing messages to influence consumer behavior and encourage product purchases. Advertising campaigns that emphasize social status, the latest trends, and instant gratification often overlook the environmental impact of producing and disposing of these goods. Consumers are often tempted to buy new products simply because advertisements make them feel that owning these items will enhance their social status.

The behavior of buying unnecessary things is another issue contributing to climate change. Many people are caught in a "buy now, think later" mindset, without considering the long-term impact of their purchases. Items bought without careful consideration often become waste that ends up in landfills, contributing to waste accumulation and environmental pollution.

The Role of Online Shopping Apps in Accelerating Global Warming

The rise of various online shopping apps has become an additional factor accelerating climate change. Although they make it easy for consumers to purchase items quickly and easily, there are hidden environmental impacts from online shopping activities.

Firstly, the delivery of goods by courier services increases greenhouse gas emissions. The fleet of vehicles used to deliver items to consumers' homes often runs on fossil fuels, contributing to higher CO2 emissions compared to traditional shipping methods.

Additionally, free or cheap shipping policies often offered by online shopping apps encourage consumers to make more frequent and impulsive purchases. This results in an increase in the number of packages shipped, which in turn raises transportation activity and CO2 emissions.

Furthermore, the excessive use of single-use packaging in shipping goods is also a major issue. Many online shopping apps use additional packaging to protect items during shipping, contributing to the accumulation of plastic waste and increased environmental pollution.

Therefore, while online shopping apps provide convenience for consumers, we also need to consider their environmental impact. Choosing to reduce the frequency of online purchases, opting for more environmentally friendly shipping options, and supporting producers who use eco-friendly packaging can help reduce the carbon footprint of our online shopping activities.

Suggestions to Buy Quality, Durable, and Environmentally Friendly Products

To reduce the impact of consumption on climate change, it is important to choose quality and durable products. By selecting products made from quality materials and environmentally friendly production processes, we can extend the product's lifespan and reduce the need for repeat purchases. Additionally, choosing products designed to be recyclable or repairable can help reduce the amount of waste generated.

Besides choosing quality products, it is also important to support producers who adopt environmentally friendly practices in their production processes. Choosing to buy from brands committed to reducing their carbon footprint, using recycled materials, or supporting environmental conservation programs can help promote positive change in the industry. By choosing to buy from environmentally conscious producers, we can provide financial support to responsible and sustainable business practices.

In conclusion, climate change is a complex global issue that requires collective action from the entire society. By recognizing the impact of our consumption, choosing quality and durable products, and supporting producers who adopt environmentally friendly practices, we can play a role in reducing our carbon footprint and protecting the planet for future generations.

Bogor, May 20, 2024