Thinking before buying something is really important as, buying things you really don't need just increases your carbon footprint which is unfair for our environment as well. Spending over your budget also can lead yourself into difficult situation. It can also put you in financial issues too so that's why making the decision "is it worth it" or "do I really need it" is a good thing to think about before making a purchase.

I feel like humans want to buy things that are their wants and cause them to impulsively buy an item but that really is just a waste of money and increases your carbon footprint and if you keep impulsively buying things it could lead to overconsumption. Some good ways to be mindful about your purchases are to have a checklist and ask yourself questions to see if you really want it or not.

As teenagers we must reflect about our wants and needs, because unnecessary things will increase our carbon footprint to unhealthy levels which will lead to destruction of our earth and all living organisms. Overspending on only wants can lead to financial troubles, so spending wisely will benefit you and your bank account. Indulging in your wants can provide a sense of satisfaction and joy. however it is crucial that you find a balance between both a want and a need. Brands like amazon, nike, apple, are constantly developing new ways to hook in new shoppers and ways to get you to buy with tricks and tactics that influence your behavior is ways that you do not realize. Life on earth is not just about buying and spending but to live the life you are given to its fullest. Because in the end whoever dies with the most money and the most items do not win.

People never seem to think about what their purchases could do to the environment or will they even use them at all. People should actually think if they need something when at the check out line. All people should get to get items that they enjoy but that should not come at the cost of Earth.

I agree, people do not think about the consequences to their actions.

I agree with this, people are not thinking about what they're buying and how that will impact other people and organisms. I think treating yourself to something unnecessary once in a while is a good thing, like a treat if you pass a test or a reward for doing something difficult. As a society, we can struggle to think about how our actions that we are taking now are going to affect others in future generations. If you want to buy something just because it's cheap, think about if you are actually going to use for a long time. Otherwise it would end up adding to our landfills.

Shopping can be fun, but it can also be very harmful to the earth. Not to be offensive, but parents who spoil their children just buy whatever their children want, not thinking about the consequences. They buy them toys that they barely play with, clothes they never wear, throwing it all away in the trash. They don't think about where those things are going, possibly dumped out into the ocean, or strewn on the ground in a desolate place. But what about animals who live there? We need to think about what are actions cause us, even if they're not immediate.

Yes I agree that so many people just buy whatever they want but in the end they just end up throwing it away or never using it. To stop this I think that people could be more mindful about what they buy or maybe if they have clothes that they never use they could donate it to a charity or to goodwill.

I've actually never thought about it that way and I have to say I agree with you. We really need to put thoughts into what we buy if we also think about shoes that we buy that we sometimes don't wear can be wasted. I'm sure there are many more I will now be thinking more about what I buy  when I shop.

I agree with you because I think some animal may eat and get stuck in it .That is not good for the environment , our sea is gonna yo be with trash.

For me, I think I'll try to only go shopping for unnecessary things once every 1-3 months. (Is that still a lot?)

I agree and we have to think before we buy

People never seem to think about what their purchases could do to the environment or will they even use them at all. People should actually think if they need something when at the check out line. All people should get to get items that they enjoy but that should not come at the cost of Earth.

Also, I will try not to eat too much processed foods, and more organic, fresh foods.

I agree it has been a problem on youtube videos I see with YouTubers where the buy random stuff to look cool  and do nothing with it but some give it away like useful things !!

That's pretty cool!

Yes i agree, we should only be buying things that are needed. Especially with our clothes we should just be getting the necessary clothes for a week and buy new items when needed. Or even hand me downs are also good to get from relatives or even friends. I believe whenever you buy something i think everyone should just think about it first like how often are you going to use this item? Or is this something i actually need or could i save this money for other things like food.

Yes I agree buying new stuff lots has a huge impact on our earth. Maybe as a population when we are wanting a new clothing item we can look is thrift stores and buy second hand. This will help us reuse thing instead of getting thrown out.

i completely agree with this, buying new clothes or toys we don’t really need is really wasteful and not a good idea for our environment. especially if it is something you know you don’t need and will rarely use but are just but buying it for the sake of buying something. a great way to stop doing this is going to yard sales or getting hand me downs or even going to thrift stores, this can help our environment because less waste will be getting thrown into land fill and more things getting reused. another great thing to do is sewing your own clothes, even though the idea might seem daunting at first it really isn’t too difficult once you learn how. trucking clothes or making your own is also a great idea for saving your money to be able to buy things you really need later.

is it a want or a need bruh.

A want or a need and deciding between both can be a struggle for many people. A want is something that will enhance our quality of life and is not required to live. Food, Water, Space, shelter, these are needs that are requirements for survival and our own well-being. A want may improve your life and make you feel good or better once you have it but it will not stop you from starving or give you enough shelter or space to live in. Understanding the differences between these two can better deepen our choices that we make. Balancing wants and needs is crucial for overall happiness and decision making

i thunk that a lot of people buy objects and never use them, this is really a waste, so if you have to buy something make sure it's really useful.

i agree

I agree that if you buy something and don't use it why wast your money.

Yes always think before buying stuff because you might end up not using it, and it becomes a waste.

I agree because most people will see adds and buy it but not use it.

I agree

I agree because some people think it looks cool but they just never use it or they just leave it to get dusty and rusty and that is not good so you just throw it away all the time and your family might just always do this and it is bad for people so I suggest to only buy what you need like food or water and some toys.

I agree, that happens to me a lot. I buy things but I don't really use them. Just think about if you will use it before buying things.

I agree

I definitely agree, I need to work on this myself. When me and my family go shopping, I am always so tempted to just buy the first thing that I like in the store. Most times, the things that I want are snacks in single use packages. I have to remind myself that we have delicious food and snacks at home.

You can always reuse it on other stuff like crafts,costumes,DIY,home stuff,parties,or sell it.

I agree. If I ever don't use something I usually give it to a relative or donate so it  can be used as intended

I also agree because many items we want but not all we need, so we should try to limit ourselves to how much we buy.

I agree, if you accidently buy something and you can't return it, you could give it to a thrift store or sell it.

Huge Problem for me I buy a lot stuff I don't need so I been working on this.

I agree, there is a good amount of people who buy stuff that they just see and WANT instead of getting stuff that you WANT, get stuff that you NEED! There are a lot of people who can't even get stuff that NEED things such as food,clothes,water and other stuff that you NEED to survive in this world. Next time think about this post before you go out getting stuff that you don't necessarily "need" 

I personally agree to this. People might find difficulties to in purchasing things that look "cool" but not actually using them.

I have an idea that could help. Using the "48 hours" rule. After seeing the item you really really WANT to buy, you go home. For two straight days, if you keep thinking about the item nonstop, you must choose if it benefits you or not. If it benefits you and the environment, you may buy it. But if it doesn't benefit you, or you even forgot about the item, you shouldn't buy it.

I personally agree to this. People might find difficulties to in purchasing things that look "cool" but not actually using them.

I have an idea that could help. Using the "48 hours" rule. After seeing the item you really really WANT to buy, you go home. For two straight days, if you keep thinking about the item nonstop, you must choose if it benefits you or not. If it benefits you and the environment, you may buy it. But if it doesn't benefit you, or you even forgot about the item, you shouldn't buy it.

This is so true. We need to normalize not being influenced by the internet to buy things we won't use. We should only buy things that we need and less things that we only want.

I agree. Many people buy things that they dont need just because of trends. Even I buy things that I don't need.

I agree wholeheartedly. It is important in an increasingly consumerist world to learn to know when you need something vs when you want something. Being able to decide what is good and what isn't saves me money in the short-term, and saves the environment in the long term.

Yes, I often find myself getting ready to spend money just because I have it. I was in this situation yesterday, and I had to stop and think, "Am I actually going to use these, or do I just think they look cool?" In the end, I saved my money, and one less useless thing was bought.

I completely agree! I think i’m guilty of getting something unnecessary here and there but this is a big problem. Buying unnecessary things like cheap toys, mass amounts of meat, and clothes you’re never going to wear. Things like cheap toys are fun for a moment but especially as you get older you’re truly not going to use that and it’s gonna go in the garbage and into the ocean. Things like mass amounts of meat from costco can be helpful for some people because it’s cheaper and easier, but if you’re going to let half of that go bad then it’s really a huge waste for how much carbon footprint the process to make that meat just left. And i know many people who buy clothes they don’t wear but if you’re not gonna donate those and just throw them away then it’s such a waste, and what did you get out of it? maybe a tiktok post and a haul for your friends but you won’t even remember it in a year, and the environment will live with that possibly 200+ years.

Thats a really good point. I sometimes buy things I dont need and never use them. I think we all need to think before we buy things and ask ouselves "do I really need this"?.

Most of us humans are addicted to electronics nowadays because they control our everyday life; but what if we could limit our time on electronics. How can we do that? One way we can break our addiction from electronics is to be more active. For example, taking time out of your day to get some exercise in, whether its working out doing weights by yourself or signing up for gym classes getting daily exercise is very beneficial. Another example could be to go on walks or bike rides. Going on walks or even jogging can help take your time off electronics and can help you appreciate the world more. Ultimately, it's hard to break an addiction, but the more effort you put in to try to break it, the easier it will get over time.

Wow! you hit it right on the nail, I sometimes catch myself just unusually using my telephone even when I know I should be I am learning that its okay to not use it some times and not over use it when I don't need to. Thank you so much I definitely will.

The newest technology could be both a want and a need. If you're a "bratty kid" that wants the newest technology to be in trend with the others, it's a need. But if you actually need the newest technology, for example for your job as an adult, it could be an important need.

I strongly think that having the newest technology is a want and not a need. If you already have a device that works perfectly fine you don't need a new one.

Attempting to keep up with the trends on what technology is best as an adolescent is not considered a need, however I agree that updated technology is a necessity if an individual is an adult and needs those upgrades in order to continue their professional work.

I think you meant to say that the "bratty kids" need for the newest technology is a want. I completely agree with the statement that having the newest technology isn't always necessary because at the end of the day, it leads to waste of the "older technology" in order to make room for the newer ones. I think that in areas such as the health field, it is an absolute need for their technology to be consistently up to date and renewed. Areas of expertise such as this one will benefit the entire community if they have access to these technologies.

I agree with your statement because most people this generation just want the newest technology to fit in with the others. With that being said, I think people that deserve the newest technology are people that need it for their jobs. Sometimes old technology can become too slow so that is why people with important jobs need the best technology that they can get.

Hey, I agree with what you're saying. And I'm also curious as to how big is the average carbon footprint in your region?

There is a big difference between desire and need.
Desire is that thing that we want, but it is not necessary.
Need is that thing we cannot live without (for example water, gas, bread, etc.)

I'm completely agree. A big part of our footprint comes from our carbon emissions and what we do within our homes, and your information can be used on other topics to discern the difference between the two words you have listed above. And maybe spread even more awareness to what we do in our spare time and overall lives.

Consumerism is definitely one of the biggest problems of our society. Whether it's wanting the newest clothes or technology, we have the mindset of always needing more. To combat my personal problem with it, I have started dividing my wants and needs. I don't count the majority of foods as a want, along with healthcare or basic necessity items. My wants are typically categorized into materialistic needs. Something that has personally helped me is converting the price of items into how many hours I'd have to work to be able to afford it. If I feel like it's not worth my work, then I find it's easier to walk away form the item.

https://www.becomingminimalist.com/consumer-isnt/

some people exaggerate with shopping which is a desire not a necessity, there are many things they don't need but they still spend a lot of money on things harmful to the environment

some people exaggerate with shopping which is a desire not a necessity, there are many things they don't need but they still spend a lot of money on things harmful to the environment

People do not seem to ask themselves if something is a want or a need before buying it. People often impulse purchase, and later realize they are not entirely interested in the thing they bought. For example, fast fashion is a large reason landfills are overflowing. Companies find less fortunate individuals to exploit and hire to work for miniscule wages. With the price of wages low, these companies are able to produce their products at an extremely low rate. This is appealing to people because of course someone would rather spend less money than more money. People often purchase clothing to fit into the newest trends, which in this day and age, change daily. With these rapid changes, the clothing bought to fit the trend is no longer useful. This leads to over "34 billion pounds of used textiles" being throw into the landfills in the United States alone. This also opens up the conversation that people should be who they want to be, not just someone who follows societal standards. If someone is able to establish themselves, they may not have the urge to purchase something just to fit in. We as humans have the ability to produce products that are safe for the environment and control our spending, yet we refuse to put the Earth's health over our wealth.
https://www.bu.edu/sph/news/articles/20 … vironment/

Fast fashion fuels overconsumption by encouraging lots of cheap purchases of trendy clothing, leading to
a ton of  waste. This way of living and thinking makes you choose quantity over quality, contributing to pollution and unethical labor conditions.

These days a lot of people buy things that they don't need just because they like them or they buy something that are very cheap and they use them only once then they threw them away. This is due to fast fashion, but if we want to save our planet we have to change our mind and start also thinking the consequences before buying. We can reuse cloth, in our school we have a room that is called "VINTED CLASS" where we can swap clothes.

Yes I agree with you that we always buy stuff but never use it like maybe we buy a peice of clothing but only use it once so then we are just wasting materials and if you think about it you are also wasting your money.

I also agree that we buy stuff, but then only use it once. For example; the people that will celebrate Halloween, most people will buy there costume and wear it on Halloween, but never wear it again.

I agree there are a lot of people that just buy things for the show factor and not thinking about what they really need.

But when you wear a Halloween costume only once, you can sell it for someone else to use.Another way To save money you can use some of your old costume for new things on your new costume.

You could get your clothes from a thrift store or get hand-me-downs.

I find it hard because I never reuse my halloween costumes and I feel like i'm wasting a lot

You could donate those clothes that you have grown out of

I agree we have to put the planet first before our wants and needs. Donating clothes to places like good will or the salvation army is great way to have your old clothes re used!

Hi i am Cody Hsu i think people shouldn't waste food because some people are hungry.

Absolutely, not wasting food is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it helps to reduce environmental impact by saving resources like water and energy used in food production. Secondly, it is economically prudent as it saves money spent on purchasing and preparing food. Thirdly, it aligns with ethical considerations by acknowledging the global issue of hunger and food insecurity. Finally, minimizing food waste promotes a more sustainable and responsible approach to consumption, benefiting both people and the planet.

I agree with you, you make some really good points.

Interesting

I agree if you don't waste food it'll help because then no food gets wasted and your points are very explanatory

yes that is a do not do right there! and did you know it watse monney

We really don't need to waste food. ex. have a big meal and then not finish it.

of course. that is very true. wasting food is not acceptable. if you do that you are  not helping the beautiful planet. think about all the people that are not as lucky to have good food, so if you waste your food it would not be helping the world and even people.=)

i eat to little food

every time we go out for dinner we normally end up having leftovers and my mom will NOT toss it out so we will either eat it for dinner the next day or give it to a homeless person:)

Hi Cody, I agree with you! Food is such a precious resource that many people take for granted. There are people out there who are starving or don't know when their next meal is going to be. So not wasting food is very important!

There are people in the world that can't afford to buy things and if u just waste money on things you don't really need then you are just being selfish. Only buy things you need. Not want.

Yes I agree, we shouldn't be selfish and buy things we only NEED.

things with meaning and usefulness are essential in our daily lives. But at the end of the day were humans so if were going to get something we want we better use it. And if you don't like it see if it can be returned.

THRIFT STORE

If you want buy something but you don't know if you really need it or only wanted, just wait few days and if you still thinking about that, maybe you need it

I agree because I have that problem because one time I thought of buying something so I got it but I didn't need it at all

I agree. I think that it is best to only buy something if you need it or know that you will use it often. Don't buy something just to have it

Yeah, I agree to you should always see if you really need something before buying it, because you don't want to buy something that is not going to be used a lot.

Some things you need to survive and some thing we just really want. But we don't need thoughs things.

we don't need everything we want

I agree to a degree, but some wants might help the fight for climate change, would you agree that there are some exceptions to your statement?

Wants and Needs are very different considering what is a necessity to live or compared to luxuries. Needs are an essential to live. Such things like a home, transportation, food, clothing, etc. You can cut back on some carbon footprint for needs by cutting down on things like transportation. For example, on a nice day maybe you can take a walk to school or ride bike instead of driving. Another example could be rather than going somewhere to eat like a restaurant you could cook something homemade at your own house. Most of people’s carbon footprint comes from transportation. People like to ride dirt bikes, or side by sides, etc. for fun. If you find other things to do besides things with motors, you could bring it down way more. Through this you can even cut back needs, because even our needs aren’t fully a necessity. Everyone has wants, as we are human. We want to go places such as the mall, the movies, the fair, etc. But there are some alternatives to make our world a better place. For example do you really need to go to the mall? Think about do you really need more clothes? You buying more clothes causes them to produce more, causing more pollution. As opposed to going thrifting, which will decrease carbon footprint and pollution. You and your friends want to hang out to go to the movies. Why not instead go to someones house and use a projector to watch a movie? If we all work together to cut back on our carbon footprint, we can make the earth healthier. Such simple things are possible.
Need or Want? | BioEd Online

I agree that we should not use things with motors for fun and we only use them for a time when needed.

I agree, so many families just buy toys that they play with for like, only like 2 days and then leave them in the corner to gather dust. I believe that people should only buy something if they have been wanting it for a long time, and rarely buy toys. Instead, people should focus on buying food and things that they really need.

What is the difference between wants and needs? In my opinion, wants are things that I can live without, but needs are things I can’t. For example, water, food, clothes are obvious needs. But what about those shoes that you want, do actually need them? If you have no shoes then yes, but what about those shoes sitting at the back of the shoe closet. Buying whatever you want and getting sick of it is just a waste of money and material. Prioritizing needs over wants ensures efficient resource allocation. Indulging in wants without consideration can lead to wasteful consumption. Being mindful of consumption habits not only benefits finances but also reduces environmental impact and promotes sustainability. Therefore, before indulging in a want, assess its alignment with needs and values.

I agree. Things that are essential to life, such as food, water, and shelter, are called needs. Conversely, desires are items we would want to have, including toys, new technology, and more. Most of the items we purchase, including pricey clothing and other items, wind up in a landfill. Anything that we use and eventually breaks or grows too tiny ends up in a landfill. Over 92 million tons of apparel end up in landfills, according to the report. This is due to fast fashion. Fast fashion is very common these days and shops like ZARA, H&M, and TOPSHOP are the biggest producers of it. This is why we have to consider when we buy clothes. Be reasonable. Don't buy clothes every single day.

Wants and needs vary, a simple definition is needs being things you must have to survive most which fit under the criteria of food, rent/mortgage things that are necessities. While wants are simply things you want to have could be a game console, a new tv or some snacks. The separation between wants and needs is that the more necessities or needs that you have the more money or time/effort you have to put into it which in some cases causes more pollution which isn't good. Aswell as adding to that with your wants, the more wants the worse it can be. So ultimately your wants and needs can affect your pollution and your carbon footprint. They can affect it with things such as lights.Also anything that affects energy can add to your footprint. As well leaving a tv on and running adds to your footprint which in some cases are wants like when you want to watch tv and then your done and leave it on it constantly adds up more and more and other things like food the more snacks and stuff you buy just because you want it also adds to your footprint. As well as your purchases this adds as well and driving around. All these things add to your footprints and can be affected by how you use them for your car. Maybe you have to drive to work but after you want to go to McDonalds, that's a want that affects the pollution. Maybe you're at the grocery store and you see some clothes that you want that affect your carbon footprint.

I 100% agree. Wants and needs are completely separate things. While food, water, oxygen, and shelter from the elements are things that we could not live without, there are so many things that we use that are unnecessary. In California, USA, the average person uses 1,191 kgs of CO2 on purchases alone. I use 119 kgs of CO2 alongside my purchases. I know that a lot of those purchases are unnecessary and I also know that it will be higher when I have to pay for everything myself, however, this is just to show the high level of wants vs needs in the world, specifically the USA and my own state.

I think that there is a part of me that wants to fuel my want, and another part that tells me to not be wasteful. I 100% agree that needs are what should be prioritized and that we should be mindful of every purchase we make, but there are some times where being frivolous is good if regulated. I think even if purchase causes waste, we can still balance the slightly unnecessary buying habits and the waste that we produce, maybe just to twice a year or something like that. Knowing that a balance between these two is the ultimate want, It begs the question- Which should/can we choose first, the fulfillment of human want, or the necessity of global cleanliness? I think that this is what the world is struggling to work past. the general public, governments, people in power, i feel, have been taking the easy route. they have been focusing on themselves and what directly affects them or their group in this moment, which is not always what we should be thinking about. they have only scraped the surface of what it means to have a balance of the two in the last couple years, and even through all the protesting and attention that this movement is getting, it just isn't enough. I know that once the necessity of global cleanliness has caught up to the people in power who chose to step aside, who chose to deal with other matters first, will be then facing a problem that they cannot handle. this is what scares me.

I agree as well. Nowadays, with social media constantly advertising new products and steadily generating new trends everyday, our consumption numbers have gone up significantly. This has caused our carbon footprint to increase. Content creators are constantly displaying a plethora of new clothes and “trendy” items they purchase consistently and influencing their thousands of followers to do the same. In my own personal experience, I see influencers on social media buy frivolous pieces of clothing that are an example of fast fashion. According to Merriam-Webster Dictionary, fast fashion is, “an approach to the design, creation, and marketing of clothing fashions that emphasizes making fashion trends quickly and cheaply available to consumers.” In other words it is cheap, poor-quality clothing, made quickly to keep up with the trends being perpetuated by social media. This clothing is not sustainable because of its poor quality and because it is a part of a trend that will most likely “go out of style” within the next few months. Once one trend fades, another is created and the cycle continues. People will continue participating in fast fashion to keep up with the trends, just to throw away those clothes in the subsequent months. All this clothing is being quickly produced and just as quickly thrown away takes a humongous toll on our carbon footprint. Giving into these trends and purchasing unneeded clothing is leading to wasteful consumption.

I agree with everything that has been said on this thread but I would like to add the aspect of how influencers can cause us to make "impulse purchases". When we see someone we really like to watch advertise a product on social media it causes us to have a more biased take on the product, as if one of our own friends had recommended it, we feel like because this "internet famous" person owns and loves this product, and since they are recommending it then it must really be a good product. But their praise may cause us to cloud our view of if the product is actually worth it or not. Many influencers just advertise products for the money even if they don't like the product and see it as a useless item. I would recommend everyone having their own unique checklist as to what is worthy to buy and what is not, and just because an influencer praises something doesn't mean it should meet your checklist. By making these impulse buys just because we saw it online and it is easy to order through amazon, we waste our time, the workers time, our money and precious resources which are limited to this world. Every time we make an unnecessary purchase we have a bigger impact on the earth because of the carbon footprint from that item being made, transported, and then dumped into a landfill. We need to cut these purchases out of our lives.

I concur. The things we need to survive, like food, water, and shelter, are known as needs. On the other hand, the things we desire, such as toys, new gadgets, and more, fall under the category of wants. Unfortunately, most of the items we purchase, including expensive clothing, end up in landfills. Anything we use that eventually breaks or becomes too small is also discarded.

I definitely agree. Purchasing things you don't need, such as clothes and other products, to merely stay "on trend" is wasteful and has a bigger impact than you think. The transportation and shipment involved in each purchase contribute to these carbon emissions. From the resources used in the production to the emissions generated during transportation, each step contributes to its overall environmental footprint. According to BBC.com, "The fashion industry is responsible for 8-10% of global emissions." Most of this impact comes from raw materials such as cotton, synthetic materials, oil, and chemicals from dyes. These wants are nonessential, while our needs are crucial to human survival in today’s society. These needs include food, water, shelter, and healthcare. Prioritizing these necessities is vital for people to live fulfilling and dignified lives.

I completely agree with your distinction between wants and needs. It's so important to recognize that while we might desire certain items, they often aren't essential for our well-being. The example of shoes is perfect; having a few pairs is practical, but accumulating more than we need just leads to waste—both financially and environmentally. Prioritizing needs over wants is a wise approach that encourages more responsible consumption. By being mindful of our habits, we not only make better financial choices but also contribute to sustainability efforts. It's crucial to pause and assess whether our purchases truly align with our values and needs. This way, we can reduce waste and make more intentional decisions that benefit both ourselves and the planet.

Yes I completely agree that we are spending a lot of money on things that we want like candy, toys etc. I think we should be spending money on things that we need like food, water, clothes , and shelter. Sometimes we spend to much on something like clothes, you need clothes but you don't need so many that your whole room is covered in them, or shoes you need a few pair but not so many that your shoe rack is overflowing with them.

I think that there are many things that we need to survive, but we have many things that are not absolutely necessary. For example, many things that almost everybody has in their home could be removed in order to help the environment. A gas stove is a perfect example. People have these because it is much too inconvenient to light a fire and put a pan on top every time, but stoves are a large carbon contributor. I think that people have a natural desire to make things more convenient and quicker but do not realize the impact that it has.

I do think that a lot of things that people buy are unnecessary, but I think the bigger issue is how it is being produced and runs. I think that just getting rid of whatever you are using (like a stove) to make a small impact on your carbon footprint would be a huge inconvenience to many people. And its not to say that we can't slightly inconvenience ourselves to help save the environment, but I think if companies changed how and what they produced, we could have a systemic change rather than a personal one.

Clothing and purchases are a huge issue relating to carbon emissions. Not only do factories release harmful gasses into the air, but it is hard or almost impossible for the materials used to decompose. According to airly.org, factories emit lots of pollutants into the air, a main one being green house gases, which mainly consist of carbon dioxide. Especially this day in age, keeping up with the trends is super important, but at what cost? People need clothes, but many purchases people make are just wants to have more. But, the more people buy, the more impact it has on our environment. 10% of carbon emissions are due to fast fashion industries. This really has me thinking, is my next purchase worth it? What do you think? Next time I will try to think before I buy.

Something that I try to keep in mind when buying clothes is if I will actually wear them more than once or if its just fast fashion. I try to thrift when I can and also buying clothes that I can wear for a long time like a nice pair of jeans. A shop I really recommend for clothes that will last is uniqlo. Their clothes are pretty expense but I have a t shirt from them that has lasted for a couple years without wear and tear. They are very good for base layers as well. I think the investment is worth it to not have to keep buying clothes.

there are many times i buy things that i don't need. i end up not using these items and sometimes they are thrown away. i need to stop buying things i dont need so there is less waste.

There is a big difference between the wants and needs. Stuff like water, shelter, food, clothes, etc. Needs are flashy shoes, high end computer, the newest phone or devices. Buying excess wants can lead to waste of resources and cause pollution because of the creation of our wants. Needs are the things we need to survive in our life. Wants can cause extra things that we don't need which becomes a waste. Having a lot of waste can cause unnecessary pollution to our Earth.

Pollution is the largest environmental cause of disease and premature death. Pollution causes more than 9 million premature deaths, the majority of them due to air pollution. That’s several times more deaths than from AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria combined. Air pollution is the leading environmental risk to health, causing 7 million premature deaths each year. This is equivalent to the number of people that have died from COVID-19 since March 2020. Pollution of all types hinder development outcomes. Air pollution, exposure to lead and other chemicals, and hazardous waste including exposure to improper e-waste disposal, cause debilitating and fatal illnesses, create harmful living conditions, and destroy ecosystems. Pollution stunts economic growth, exacerbates poverty and inequality in both urban and rural areas, and significantly contributes to climate change. Poor people, who cannot afford to protect themselves from the negative impacts of pollution, end up suffering the most. More than 95 percent of deaths caused by air pollution occur in low- and middle- income countries. In individual countries, the economic burden of pollution associated with premature mortality and morbidity is also significant, equivalent to 5 to 14 percent of countries' GDPs. Recent evidence points to the similar devastation caused by exposure to harmful chemicals, such as lead. In 2019, more than 5.5 million adults died from cardiovascular disease arising from lead exposure. 90% of these deaths occurred in lower- and middle-income countries. In the same year, children younger than 5 years of age lost 765 million IQ points. Lead exposure costs countries $6 trillion, equivalent to 6.9% of global GDP. It is critical to address pollution because of its unacceptable toll on health and human capital, as well as associated GDP losses. Pollution management can also make substantial contributions to climate change mitigation through actions such as reduction of black carbon and methane emissions, which contribute to both air pollution and climate change. In addition, pollution management can enhance competitiveness, for example, through job creation, better energy efficiency, improved transport, and sustainable urban and rural development.

https://www.worldbank.org/en/topic/poll … 20combined.

It really depends on what the want is.  For example, electric cars (Teslas) are made to lower the amount of carbon emission out of cars.  But the trade off is that when the lithium for the batteries is mined, then it emits 15 tons of carbon as well.  Sometimes it is alright to pollute if it will help the earth in another way but most of the time we should not pollute our planet for our material wants.

Needs are something that every person has, and as time goes on these needs will be completely different from 100 years ago. Everyone needs water, shelter, and food, but as time goes on it becomes more necessary for adults to have things such as smart phones and cars in order to keep their other basic needs. While these things do cause extra waste they still are necessary for people to have in a modern society. So to combat this it's important that people make use of these things for long periods of time making sure they use their phones for multiple years and possibly utilize electric cars in order to reduce their carbon output.

Clothing and fashion are two of my biggest interests, yet what is happening behind the scenes? According to NRDC anywhere from 4-8.6% of carbon emissions are from clothing production. I love to go thrift shopping and try to reuse clothes as much as possible, due to the fact that the fast fashion industry is a significant contributor to the climate crisis, responsible for as much as 10% of global carbon dioxide emissions; and waste nearly 97 million tons of clothing. Are these trends so important that you should value them more than mother earth? NO! Next time you walk into a store to purchase a clothing item, think of how much carbon has been emitted to create it. Is it really worth it?

Clothing is one thing I truly enjoy, but at what cost? I love shopping but after my class took the carbon footprint calculator I realized clothing is such a huge contribution to carbon emissions. According to NRDC anywhere from 4-8.6% of carbon emissions are from clothing production. I talk about how I love to buy second-hand or used clothes however as much as I would like to think I mostly thrift, I have many new clothes from stores that contribute to fast fashion. Are these new clothes really something I need to be getting? Finding clothes from thrift stores is much more friendly to the environment because you are actually taking out of the 92 million tons of clothing thrown away each year. When I'm out shopping I often think "buying just one top won't hurt the environment" but in actuality the amount of people that have the exact same thought as me is what causes extreme rates of carbon in the atmosphere. Next time I'm at a store and I want to buy a shirt, I really need to think about carbon emissions that have gone into our atmosphere due to the production of this clothing item and how many clothing items have been produced along with it.

Clothing is one thing I truly enjoy, but at what cost? I love shopping but after my class took the carbon footprint calculator I realized clothing is such a huge contribution to carbon emissions. According to NRDC anywhere from 4-8.6% of carbon emissions are from clothing production. I talk about how I love to buy second-hand or used clothes however as much as I would like to think I mostly thrift, I have many new clothes from stores that contribute to fast fashion. Are these new clothes really something I need to be getting? Finding clothes from thrift stores is much more friendly to the environment because you are actually taking out of the 92 million tons of clothing thrown away each year. When I'm out shopping I often think "buying just one top won't hurt the environment" but in actuality the amount of people that have the exact same thought as me is what causes extreme rates of carbon in the atmosphere. Next time I'm at a store and I want to buy a shirt, I really need to think about carbon emissions that have gone into our atmosphere due to the production of this clothing item and how many clothing items have been produced along with it.

Recently my whole grade took this footprint calculator, and the following question was then asked all around the school; "what was your footprint"? While it may be easier to joke about how high or low someones score it is important that we actually think about these numbers and how they affect the world around us. Looking at my score I was struck by how the averages compared to my personal numbers. I will admit that many of my choices are not based on how eco-friendly they are, but more based on how convenient when it comes to transport and how cute when it comes to shopping. Both of my parents work is surrounding climate change, so growing up I was constantly being encouraged to make the choice that was more climate friendly. I often ignored this, if my friends parent offered me a ride home I was going to take it, or if I thought a shirt was cute it was a given I was going to buy it, even if I didn't NEED that ride or shirt. In the future I will strive to base my choices more on how it affects the planet.

When you hear the words wants and needs, they seem very different. But in reality, things between them typically get mixed together when thinking about it. From Difference Between Needs and Wants (with Comparison Chart) - Key Differences, “needs point out something you must have for survival. On the other hand, wants refer to something that is good to have, but not essential for survival.” For example, everyone needs to eat and drink but choosing to eat healthy or to eat junk is a want. People typically mix eating junk food to be a need because they “need to eat food”. But they don’t need to eat junk that is bad for them. They can choose to eat organic and healthier foods that are better for them and the environment around them. Besides just the basic want of not eating healthy, people may choose to eat certain foods over others due to price. A lot of foods that are organic are more expensive than foods that aren’t.
    There are many more examples that fit both wants and needs. But there are simple steps people can take to do things that are healthier and better for the environment. For food, you can eat low on the food chains, choose organic and local foods that are in season, and buy foodstuffs in bulk when possible using your own reusable container. You can also reduce your food waste by planning meals ahead of time, freezing the excess and reusing leftovers, and compost your food waste if possible. For clothing, don't buy fast fashion, buy vintage or recycled clothing at consignment shops, and wash your clothing in cold water. For shopping, buy less stuff, bring your own reusable bag when you shop, opt for a laptop instead of desktop, and look for energy star products. For home, do an energy audit of your home, change incandescent light bulbs, and switch lights off when leaving the room and unplug electronics that are not being used. Also turn your water heater down, install a low-flow showerhead, and sign up to get your electricity from clean energy. For transportation, drive less, avoid unnecessary braking and acceleration, take care of your car, and consider purchasing a hybrid or electric vehicle. For air travel, avoid flying if possible, fly nonstop since landing and takeoffs use more fuel, go economy class, and offset the carbon emissions of your travel. All these steps in the paragraph are from The 35 Easiest Ways to Reduce Your Carbon Footprint – State of the Planet (columbia.edu). All these steps are things you may want to do that go with your needs but there are better ways to fulfill the needs you are needing.

We all have something that we want and some things that we really need. Some examples of needs are shelter, food, clothings and a lot more. However, there are lots of things that aren't necessary but we still buy it. Yes, we need shoes but we don't need to buy twenty pairs of them. We might need phones but we don't need to buy a new phone every time a new phone got released. There are a lot more things that are just wants and not really necessary. We are causing a lot of pollution on things that we don't really need. We can reduce a lot of carbon footprint by buying less wants. Wants and needs aren't just for buying stuff. Do we really need to go to everyplace by car? We can also reduce a lot of carbon footprint if we take transportations like buses, MRT, or we can reduce even more by just walking. By doing these things, we can produce a lot less pollution.

I agree with you. It's important to understand the difference between what we really need and what we just want. If we cut down on non-essential purchases and choose ways of getting around like walking or using public transport instead of driving, we can help reduce pollution and protect the environment for the future. Even small actions can make a big difference.

Wants are things that make the experience of human life better, they are not necessities. Whereas needs are necessities to live. An example of a want is going on vacation, you do not need to go spend a week somewhere but people want to. This type of want increases peoples carbon footprint by a lot. Needs can also constitute as want, for example we need food, but we don’t necessarily need fast food multiple times. According to Budgeting Needs vs Wants: A How-to Guide your needs should always come before your wants, but that is not how it always goes. People would rather have fun and spend more money than stay home and only buy the essentials. Human beings typically have a tendency to confuse wants and needs. While we need a pair of shoes, we don’t need 12. Another example could be technology; technology nowadays is essential to schoolwork. However, we do not need to replace technology everytime something new comes out. A lot of people have privileges that they do not even realize, so some of their “needs' ' are really just wants but they have never had to live without them, so it has become part of their way of life. To improve our carbon footprint we need to learn how to differentiate wants and needs. We also need to learn to place limits on certain needs and not go overboard. We could do this by making Wants vs. Needs an issue and places it into the mainstream media. We should prioritize this all around the world, not just in our community. Ways we could do this is by putting it on billboards, getting the government to talk about it. Along with getting to younger audiences by making this a more prominent thing in schools that gets talked about frequently. While we teach about reducing our carbon footprints, we must also learn to do it ourselves. In the future we must strive to make our impact on planet Earth better!

While wants and needs are very different things, the line between them can sometimes get blurred. For example, we need to eat, but we may want to eat some foods over others, foods that might be more expensive or harder to come by. There is also the distinction of what we feel the need to do rather than what we actually need to do. For example, we may feel the need to drive ourselves to school, work, or extracurricular activities, when there are so many other, more sustainable transportation options to use if we even really need to get there at all.
When it comes down to it, the only things we, as humans, really need are food, water, shelter, rest, and breathable air. Everything else, from modern conveniences and appliances to fast fashion to social media, is all an add-on. Because of our society today, however, we have greatly heightened the importance of these “add-ons”, shifting our perspective of these wants into needs. To truly only have what we need, we would have to alter our society as a whole.
However, once we recognize this, there are several steps we can take to slightly tone down our wants, and incorporate them more into our needs. For example, buying organic and locally sourced food, especially food that is in season, can show support for farmers using a smaller carbon footprint. Walking and/or biking instead of driving, and using public transportation as much as possible helps reduce your carbon emissions greatly. While social media can obviously be fun, reducing time spent on electronics impacts your carbon energy footprint a great deal. And even though fast fashion can come with social pressure and it may feel necessary to buy all new clothes, thrifting and making do with what you already have is a very beneficial choice for the environment. Even small things, such as buying larger tubes of toothpaste instead of a ton of travel-sized tubes to reduce plastic waste, buying deodorant in a non-plastic container instead of using your favorite brand that comes in plastic, and saving snacks such as chips in a one-serving-sized plastic bag for special occasions, and instead eating less heavily packaged, healthier food that will do a better job filling you up and reduce the packaging waste.
It’s never easy to sacrifice wants, and it can be hard at times to distinguish them from needs in the moment, but if we all tried doing just one thing to cut down on our unnecessary indulgences, our world, and our society, would be wanting and needing less from us.

Wants and needs are very different from each other because a want is something that you do not need but you desire to have. A need is something that is needed for human survival. When it comes to spending, a need should be 50% of your budget and a want should be 30% of your budget. A want is something that can improve your quality of life. Wants may be helpful or make life easier but unless you die without them they are not considered needs. A need includes food, water, clothing, shelter, and medical care. Needs are those items that are required for life and do not change with time. As opposed to, wants are those items that are desired by an individual either right now or in future. Therefore, wants might change over time. Some people choose wants over needs because they have a self centeerd outlook on life. They are self indulgent, pleasure seeking and unrestrained when it comes to satisfying their desires. Needs are secondary and only come into the picture if they provide personal pleasure or satisfaction. Understanding the difference between wants and needs frees us from unnecessary burdens and begins to align our lives with more lasting fulfillment. Before we buy stuff that we want, consider these questions: Do I need it? What do I gain from this? How much does it cost? With these questions, it will help you decide whether or not you should buy the product. Adding limits to what we want, we can make the world a better place. Having the latest technology is typically considered a want rather than a need. While technology can enhance productivity, communication, and entertainment, it's not essential for basic survival or well-being.

https://study.com/
https://www.becomingminimalist.com/
https://www.forritcu.org/
https://www.nerdwallet.com/

Its possible the newkids on the block

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I agree that you should have a budget on the amount you spend on the things you want but we all only live once and what's the point of not having what you want. Spending half your money on the necessities also seems a little excessive. You could just lower how much you're buying of everything in general. You said that a want is just meant for personal pleasure and based on that if you don't buy your wants you'll just be bored. Wants and needs don't have to carry burdens unless you make it have one. I would say that asking the questions like if you need it or how much it costs would create more of a burden just live life. I see where you're coming from with the new technologies but the consumers will buy it no matter what because it's “better”. Also with that everything that is a need can be too expensive like certain pieces of clothes. So like I said earlier, limiting how much is spent on needs can help. Also those questions should be the ones we think about because people really make dumb decisions in the heat of the moment. Some other people don't really think about those questions. Also thinking about how these things impact our lives, a want is sometimes needed for human survival. I disagree on how you said modern technology is a need because if you have an older phone or car it could create a lot of problems in your life. Like having to spend more money on your car which would increase spending on the carbon footprint. A need is not always something for human survival because you’ve gone so many years without something that is a need and not having it for a little more doesn’t really matter.
https://news.climate.columbia.edu/2018/ … footprint/
https://www.forritcu.org/needs-vs-wants … ifference/

When we are buying things, I think we have to consider if the "thing" you want is necessary. For example, air, water, food, or clothes are necessary for you. Things that you want, should not be bought often. I know humans like to buy thing they like, but this is causing the world to collapse.  So, after today consider if the "thing" you are buying is necessary or not. Start caring about our own world and make it to a better one!!!

Sorry, typo. It should be Necessary.

Many people say they need to have something in order for them to be happy, but need is something we need in order to survive like food, water, air, shelter, and warmth. Buying a car or phone isn't a need, we won't die even if we don't have them. Want is extra things to keep us happy and comfortable like a transportation to go. If we can sort out what we actually need and what we just want, we can save many resources not buying unnecessary products like plastic toys, models, etc. We don't need a Lego set in order to live. For example, if we can save our money buying Lego the plastic pieces might become trash and end up floating in the ocean or laying there in a garbage dump. If we think buying little things won't hurt the planet, each small purchase adds up until we kill many habitats and ecosystems. We have to start thinking to do the right thing and buy important things that can really help you when you buy it.

I agree, sometimes we feel like we are just buying something little, but if everybody thinks this way and we keep buying them, it is going to create a lot of pollution. We should really think about whether what we are buying is really necessary. We don't need thirty pairs of basketball shoes.

We all want things we can’t have whether it’s clothes, traveling, etc. Wants and needs are very different. Needs are the things we need in life such as a roof over your head, water, and food. Wants are things we don’t necessarily need but buy for our own entertainment. To fix our limitations for wants, we must know if we need to buy it or not. Before we buy stuff that we want, consider these questions: Do I need it? What do I gain from this? How much does it cost? With these questions, it will help you decide whether or not you should buy the product. Adding limits to what we want, we can make the world a better place. Overconsumption occurs in a lot of countries with the excessive use of something.
Overconsumption is one of the causes of bad climate change and environment damage. Overconsumption can worsen greenhouse gas emissions and cause bad pollution. Which is why thinking before we buy something can help the world become a better place. After all, this is our home.

Exactly. Think before you do something that can be harmful to our precious yet dying planet. You might want something, but you might not need it. This is the case where you decide: Do you want to buy something that's unnecessary just because you saw it, liked it, and wanted to buy it? Or do you want to help reduce carbon footprint and save the Earth? Of course, you can still reward yourself with small gifts, but I hope we can all focus on saving the Earth. In other words, we are just preventing our greedy actions from destroying our planet.

Having the latest technology is typically considered a want rather than a need. While technology can enhance productivity, communication, and entertainment, it's not essential for basic survival or well-being. Access to technology may vary depending on individual circumstances and societal expectations, but it generally falls into the category of wants rather than needs.

i want to say that alot of things now is a want than a need, the technology can produce and mke things humans want ,i woould say to be honest i would  agree that huans use needs to cover up their wants

so some things in the planet earth isnt needed for us when humans make it,so is it true we need it or is it jsut the fact that we want it? if we really need it does it effect the enviroment or if we want it does the enviroment realy need the things that we want but isnt needed. now technology can make things umans want but is it really a need?

wants or needs? DO WE NEED ALL OF IT?

What is a want and what is a need to you? For me, wants are things that aren’t necessarily something we have to have, instead it is something we desire. A need, on the other hand, to me, is something that is necessary for all human beings. That counts as water, food, clothing, etc… So, after looking at my carbon footprint, I realized that I can cut down on many wants. Things like using my electronics too much and buying things. Of course, clothing is crucial for human beings but, we don’t need to be buying excessive clothing. Sometimes, having too much is a waste because we might not even wear it at all. So, we should look through our closets once in a while and if we have excessive clothing or just anything in general, we can donate them to charity. Instead of wasting money on things for leisure, we should spend our money wisely, and buy things we actually need more of. It could even be spending our money on charities and donating to them. If yo don’t wanna spend money, then of course, as I mentioned, you can donate your things.

I think that the question you posed is and incredibly important question and a question that people should be asking more often. In so many conditions, people indulge in commodities that they "desire" or "want", usually consuming goods that are not necessary for their wellbeing. I think that it is great that you came to the realization that you can cut down on things that fall outside of your needs and it shows a level of maturity and control that many people need to learn. If people in general can cut down on the need to buy things (clothes, cars, electronics, beauty products, etc.) just because they want them, whether because they saw an ad or heard about it on social media, it would contribute to the continued fight against climate change and show that people are willing to buy products that they need and not just want. If this happened, there would not be as great a need to over produce cheap products and the impact on the climate and world in general would be amazing.

In my opinion, everyone can reduce his footprint if they be aware about what they need and what they want. Many objects seem necessary but it is not true.

I agree with you, only we only pay attention when we have an idea of what we are doing. As a student I don't pay attention to what I consume.

i am agree

I agree. In the modern era, it's very common for people to buy things not because they need them for survival or convenience, but rather because they "look nice" or are attractive to them in some other way. We must realize when this is happening, and try to cut back on purchases like these. That way the materials otherwise used to make these products can be diverted for more environmental purposes, and your money can be spent on something more essential to your everyday life.

Is traveling a want or a need? Well, that depends on how you want to live and what you prioritize in life. If you believe that the most important thing in life is to visit family and friends abroad, discover new things, and see many different places while experience different cultures, then yes, traveling is a need. However, if you believe that what you need is just basic things to make sure you survive such as things like food, water and shelter, then no, traveling is not a need for you. Cutting down on expenses and pollution can always be good, but if it's how you want to live your life, then do it! Some people may be willing to give up basic needs to be able to enjoy what they think is most important in life. Prioritizing also has to do with your living conditions and your financial status. If you have good living conditions and financial status, then you may claim that materialistic things are part of your needs, while others with poor living conditions and bad financial status may strongly disagree. Moreover, some may argue that non of these are their needs. All they need may be just love either by parents, family, friends or a partner. They would be willing to give up all they have for that particular person or group of people. So, really, there's no an actual how-to guide on whether something is a want or need. It all depends on what you want to prioritize, because after all it is your life. Cutting on expenses and air pollution is obviously preferred, but if you have really decided that is not what you want, then no one can physically force you to do it.

I think that traveling is something that pollutes a lot and it is more of a want than a need honestly, in my opinion traveling is good for your peace mind and disconnecting from
reality but when you travel quite a lot is not necessary and it pollutes a lot, so we should think more about the environment when traveling.

I both disagree and agree. Travelling can be a want, you want to go to Mexico with your family, or you want to go to Japan with your best friend. Those are wants. Travelling can also be a need though. People often travel for their line of work which then turns into a need. Sometimes you need to travel to make a living. So I see how flights can be a want and a need at different times. saying all this my opinion is that lots of flights can and should be avoided. Travelling for fun is great every once and a while, but if you look to help save the climate then avoiding flights should be a priority.

i both disagree and agree with you. i think that it depends on how you look at it. For example, some people consider traveling as a want because its something they enjoy to do because they like exploring and new experiences. however for others, travelling can be seen as a need, especially if it has to do with work, education, or essential purposes, like getting medical treatments or visiting family members. i think that it really just various from person to person with their individual circumstances. with all that said, travelling is something fun to do but if you want to help save the planet then i think you should consider how much your travelling and try and reduce it as much as possible.

I think that even if traveling is a want and not a need, it can be extremely helpful in seeing the bigger picture and having some perspective. Many people unconsciously assume that everywhere else in the world is making the same effort and having the same outcome as their country. When traveling, you often realize that some countries have done so much more to address the climate crisis. You may also see people and places that inspire you to continue fighting climate change, be it pristine or destroyed places.

I think that travelling can be both a want and a need. We travel almost every day whether it’s by bussing, driving, or flying on a plane for various reasons. Sometimes we’ll travel somewhere because we want to, which may include going on vacation or even driving to the beach. But most of the time when we’re travelling it’s for something we need to do. Like getting to work, buying groceries, or going to school. I’m sure there are ways we can travel somewhere which will be more sustainable, but in some cases it’s unavoidable. Some people don’t have access to public transport and they live in remote areas where it’s too far to walk.

For the most part I agree with this because as someone who has only really traveled for vacations and getaways, I can see how environmentally impactful (negative) this is, but I if I'm being honest, I tend to not think about it as much since I only focus on the fact I get to go and enjoy a holiday. But I also disagree in some aspects because ever since I moved to a different state, away from most family, I recognize that traveling is an essential aspect in my life, in order to see family and have those bonding opportunities I otherwise would not, I find it almost a necessity to fly home. Obviously when the cost is factored into it, I think most middle/lower class families would drive instead of fly, but honestly, most long-distance traveling isn't sustainable and isn't just going to suddenly disappear.

I think that travelling is both a want and a need. Sometimes we travel to gain access to things that are not in our country (i.e. clothes, certain shops, etc.). Sometimes, we travel to visit family members who we don't see often. If we visit a family member that we don't see because they have (example) a medical condition that needs to be taken care of, that seems more like a need compared to a want. Essentially, I believe that visiting another place just to purchase new things just shows that it is more of a want than a need.

I agree with you that traveling is a very big polluter, but I think that traveling is very necessary for a lot of people. I myself have family far away overseas and have to take 12+ hour flight to reach our destination. These are family members that are very close to us, and it is important that we meet them once in a while, but it is only about once every 1-3 years. While it is a fact that traveling emits lots of carbon into the environment, I think it is fine if done in moderation.

I agree, traveling indeed can pollute Earth. So maybe we should use more public transportation rather than private ones.

Sometimes what we want isn't what we need. If we buy less unnecessary things, then we can reduce our carbon footprint. We can also use that excess money to help people who can't even buy what they need. An example is how many women are obsessed with cosmetics when they already have enough. They just buy it for fun or to show off. But just think about how much money you can donate to the needy if you save the excess cosmetics money. So let's take action and reduce our carbon footprint together!

I think that traveling by plane pollutes a lot. In my opinion, it is good because you go to disconnect and get to know a new culture.

I think that travelling in some cases is totally necessary such as if you are visiting your family and they live overseas, but it also causes a whole lot of pollution. I dont think travelling by airplane is always needed.Such as in lockdown my family couldnt fly anywhere so we focused on driving around our province and it really opened up my eyes on how there is so much where you are and so much to see.You dont need to fly somewhere when there is so many places that people dont notice.

In my opinion travelling can be totally necessary if you need to visit family, or attend a funeral or wedding but the downside to these trips are planes create a lot of problems and pollution. In some scenarios travelling by plane is not always necessary. For instance the year when covid was around my family’s trip got canceled, so we drove to Ossoyoos and Kelowna instead. My experience was amazing and i saw how amazing places right here in our own province is.

I think that because traveling and planes is already done so much, we need to focus on making planes less of a polluter. From the little research I have done, there are fuels being tested that do not emit carbon. These are known as biofuels and if we are able to implement these, it would make drastic changes. Things like high speed rails and electric cars cannot travel over water, so planes are not something we can just get rid of. Families need to be able to visit each other and international travel helps bring humans together and sticking together is what we need to do to combat climate change.

I believe while traveling and modes of transportation like cars, boats, planes, etc. are massive contributors to many peoples’ carbon emissions, traveling shouldn’t be thrown out as a whole. Although it’s not all of the time, traveling is still a necessity sometimes. I believe humanity needs travel for many reasons, from economic trade to just simply seeing family; not to mention the amount of countries that rely of tourism to stay afloat. I think that if humans are so determined to become more advanced while at the same time reversing the effects of climate change, we should focus more on creating biofuel instead of cutting off all possibilities of traveling internationally. Traveling should definitely be cut back on if completely unnecessary, especially through air travel as it’s one of the main contributors to air pollution and has no alternative fuel to be even remotely eco-friendly.

Traveling shouldn't be looked down upon or discouraged, even though it and other forms of transportation such as cars, boats, planes, etc. are huge contributors to c02 emissions. Traveling is a necessary part of the human life. it gives us the opportunity to explore new places and cultures, learn new things, and make connections with people from all over the world, to take this way would be depriving the new generation of humans from a once in a lifetime experience. while the consequences of air travel are real I strongly believe we should be putting more effort into producing biofuel rather than removing all international travel.

In our society, there are always changing trends and micro-trends circulating. Many of these will only be popular for a few months or less. When we see something that's trendy, we often don't think about how long we will wear it or how long it will last. We may see something in store or online we like, but never wear it. It's important to know how clothes you like differ from the clothes you like on yourself and what you will wear it with. Sometimes you need to give yourself time to see if you will wear it in the long run.

replying to carbonara123 i agree and i feel like a lot of people dont understand how wasteful it is to buy fast fashion that bis trending because you only wear it a couple of times and then forget about it in the back of their closets, because it is no longer in style. we waste so much trying to make cheap, bad quality items that will eventually be thrown out because people feel they cant wear stuff after it is out of style.

I completely agree with this. Sure, it's nice to buy all the trendy clothes and be in style, but not everyone takes into account how much waste it causes. When you're planning on buying clothing, it's much more beneficial to invest into something more expensive that will last in the long run instead of something cheap that will only last for a couple wears. There are many brands that intrigue you with fast-fashion, but most things are poor quality and are meant to last as long as the trends do. These companies we're buying from don't care about the waste, they only want to make money. They know that once an article of clothing becomes popular on social media, people will go crazy to get their hands on them quickly. By purchasing  from them, we're giving more money to make more cheap clothes and cause more waste.  In my opinion, trendy clothes are most definitely a want.

I think trendy cloths would be a want instead of a need, because although cloths are a need, it being trendy is not. as a teen there is some pressure of keeping up with the trends, especially in cloths, and top clothing brands, but most of them are just mass-produced and after the trends have moved on to another type of clothing, that once trendy top you bought is now just a piece of clothing that you might not want to wear anymore due to another trendy top that is better. A lot of trendy cloths get dumped, and end up in the land fill, swell as create green house gas, contributing to climate change

I agree it’s a want. We are constantly being influenced to buy more. Clothes especially. The issue with trendy clothes is that they’re being produced at a mass amount, the factories that they’re made in produce a lot of pollution and the clothes that aren’t bought end up getting thrown out. We too throw out clothing when it’s not “trending” anymore. It’s so harmful to the environment because a lot of materials are used to make clothes and most of it ends up in a landfill.

I agree with Elaria that trendy clothes are definitely affecting the planet in a negative way, but as a teenager who's easily influenced by trends and other things seen on social media, it's hard to not cave into these trend clothes as it seems to now be society's norm. I think a good alternative to these trendy pieces is getting more pieces of clothing that you will continue to rewear after these trends come and go. It is hard to not purchase these trendy pieces when it does feel good to keep up with what's popular but another way to stay trendy is to thrift or make pieces yourself.

I agree with you, we are a society built on overconsumption. The waste of fast fashion is incredibly huge. The amount of clothing we purchase and throw out each year is absurd. Companies like SHEIN don’t help with this. Furthermore, thrifting is supposed to be the best way we can dispose of clothing but places like goodwill send their clothing to countries in Africa- which destroys their local economy and leads to piles of clothing on their beaches. (https://www.insideedition.com/mountains … hana-69935). We can reduce this by not buying fast fashion and instead buying in quality over quantity. Of course, this is dependent on your financial situation, but the earth, Ghana, and the employees being overworked making all the cheap clothing will thank you.

From my perspective, phones are a necessity in the modern era due to their fundamental role in communication, access to information and various utilities. However, the choice of phone type may vary depending on individual preferences and needs. In short, they are essential, but personal choice plays an important role.

I agree with you. Certain Wants and needs are definitely different especially with something like a phone and like you said it Vareis on the person. On terms of supporting our environment, we often only focus on what we want and disregard what impact it might have on the environment.

I completely agree that phones are an essential part of life today as phones act as a very efficient method to communication, access to information, and a multitude of utilities. Phones are a very useful device due to their extreme multi-functionality. The main downside to phones is the way they’re made. Phones are made up from many components such as rare metals, and the process for creating each phone emits mass amounts of carbon. So although the production of phones is a major contributor to the world’s carbon footprint; they are very essential to modern day societies and should remain within them. Phones are most definitely a need, not just a want.

I agree, phones are a basic necessity in the modern human world because of how much our world depends on them. We need them for communication, for traveling, etc. Phones are the one thing that everyone will more then likely have in their life time because of how much we need them and use them. We also all want one because of social media and what not so it seems like phones are a want and a need but mainly a need.

Brands like ZARA, and H&M are some of the many brands that do what is known as “fast fashion”. If you have any social media you know very well that trends come and go a lot. These brands grab on to these trends and as soon as they are out of style, the clothes are thrown in a landfill and the cycle continues. You might say that not all brands do this but without proper research you might not know. Another point is that the clothes are not good quality and are made from plastic. In 2021 the fast fashion industry released almost 900 million metric tons of CO2. If that doesn’t tell you that something needs to change,  I don't know what else will. The next question you might have is “what is the alternative?” Well I have just the answer. Thrifting, getting hammy downs, and consigning clothes are all ways you can not participate in fast fashion. If you are worried about quality, there are plenty of higher end thrift stores all over and it not like all clothes at thrift stores are bad. Also, using clothes to their fullest and even repairing clothes yourself can help them have a longer life span. Overall, fast fashion is awful for the environment, and there are so many other, better options to get your clothes.

There are so many that we want. I would like to go shopping, get a new phone, buy new clothes and MAYBE some necessities but most of the things I want are not needs. I have the things I need and the more we buy, the more factories are producing our wants and using more fossil fuels. So in the end is it really worth it? I think the effect on our planet is much more important than all the things we want. So maybe next time, when you're shopping, stop and think for a second if it's a want or a need and how it just might affect the Earth.

Wants and needs are something we all struggle with especially high school students. Many students want an iPhone or AirPods, we don't need it but we would like to have it. These students also struggle with understanding their needs in school. Students think they need the best clothes to go to school but in reality, you need the best grades to pass. Students need good studying habits and school materials, not designer belts and brand-name jeans.

A large issue in carbon emissions is the demand and production of goods. Businesses make more to provide for the amount demanded by the consumers. This causes increase in waste and carbon emissions during this process increase as well, impacting the environment. However, what if we start to reduce our consumption and begin to question if we can begin to be conscious of how much we are buying. Some ways you can do this is to switch to reusable products, such as metal straws, water filters, and cloth bags. You can also support sustainable brands that use eco-friendly materials and practices. By doing this, less waste will reduce your carbon footprint and communities can start to become more environmentally friendly.

I agree and disagree with certain aspects of this person’s view on wants and need. I agree with their view on wants and need because I get how not every consumer needs more materials, food, and clothes etc. Even though the consumer doesn’t really need more materials and etc, I think i also disagree because some people eat and buy this things that makes them happy which help the world so it really just depends on the citation and the person.

My total carbon footprint is 16,522 and actions I will take to lower that number is to eat less meat and more fruit and to not get the latest technology so often. Having the latest technology is definitely more of a want then a need even though the newer tech tends to work faster and better. I get a new phone about every 2 years, but I don't believe it's necessary to get a new one constantly.

There are son many different ways for people to get protein provided by meat without actually eating meat that it is appalling that people chose to still eat the corpses of dead animals, and calling it food. Plant based meat is a much better alternative. It is healthier, better for animals, and in some cases, it tastes better. Now, there is a debate that some people make: Plant based meat is expensive! That brings me to another point, plant based meat costs should be lowered and readily available for everyone.

I agree. One of the primary sources of meat, beef (cow meat), is detrimental to the environment because the digestion process of cows produce a lot of methane that is released into the atmosphere. The US is also the country that consumes the most amount of beef by a long shot, so even switching to other meat sources like chicken, is a way to help our ecosystem and reduce the amount of beef production. Plant based meat is also another great option, although it isn't available to everyone, which is unfortunate. However, in the future, more affordable plant based meet would be an excellent solution,

I hope your mom buys plant based meat for family dinner and gets food poisoning and dies.

I can totally see what you are saying for this point and that killing animals contributes to climate a fair bit, but i believe that consuming meat is a personal choice and shouldn't be something we should shame others for doing. So many people get there income from selling meat and that is the only source of income, and putting them out of business would create even more homelessness in the world. But to touch on what i said at the start, it is a personal choice and the best thing you can do if you feel strongly about this is educating people about this (like you are doing) and sharing your perspective. Me personally i dont eat much red meat, but i do eat chicken and fish and i find that perfectly fine.

abmcfly, while I think Gatlin_696969 went a little to far, the consumption of meat is part of the cycle of life, while I think factory farms that kill thousands of animals a day are very bad, humanity has been sustainably living of animals since cave men with no problems until the industrial revolution, eating animals isn't bad, the industrial killing of animals is.
ps. there is no plant based meat that tastes nearly as delicious as a good medium rare steak.

While there may be many ways to consume food in a more sustainable fashion, most options are not realistic for the average family. With food prices rising, we have to consider that not everyone can afford a plant based, organic, whole foods meal on a daily basis. It is unfair to assume that those people are doing this with a total disregard for the planet, or that they simply cannot be bothered. Abmcfly, you argue that the cost of plant based meat should be lowered, but it really is not that simple. While I am not here to defend large corporations, I have to assume that they can’t change the price tags on a whim. While you may be in a position to have a plant based diet, it is important to remember that not everyone is, and to not imply that everyone who eats meat is a bad person fo doing so.

climate change is caused by many global issues, but humans are the main problem as we do not appreciate the earth when we use items that harm it. even though these materials are more convenient, they are destroying the earth as we continue to live today. One example is cars. cars use fossil fuels to operate, and these gases rise into the air and pollute the atmosphere. although cars are one of the best options to get around places, there are other ways of transportation that do not harm the earth, such as walking, biking, electric vehicles or even public transportation and carpooling so more people can get around using less gas. A car is a want because there are other options that people can use to transport. https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/201 … 713722001/ and https://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/s … ate-change

Cars can be a tricky topic. They have been very beneficial for transportation, but as it was said above, they use a lot of fossil fuels that pollute the Earth. One exception is electric cars. Electric cars are not harming the atmosphere through fossil fuels and are not using gas. The topic of cars can be difficult to convince people cause most don't want to resort to more harmless options like biking, public transit, and the costs of electric vehicles. I think a change that society can make regarding this is reducing prices of electric vehicles. This will encourage more people to buy electric if prices are similar to gas vehicles. Cars are very convenient for people and if we can convince more people to go electric, it can reduce our pollution into the atmosphere. Although cars are a problem, I believe they're a need.

I think that we need some type of transportation but cars aren’t really necessary, as long as we have busses or some type of transportation that can save some CO2 we will be good, a lot of the places that we go to aren’t walking distance, like work. Not everyone is going to the same place or on the same route so if your work is really far, you would have to wake up earlier than usual unlike if you took a car.

in my opinion cars were needs about 20 years ago but wants now. As they where needed to get around and travel but now that there are so many alternate ways of travelling such as taking the bus and transit there isn't so much demand for cars, Especially gas powered cars which have kind of been out phased due to electric cars. I understand the fact that electric cars cost a lot of money and some people might not have a place to charge them but if we are trying to make a difference on this planet walking or biking  makes a big difference.

I feel that cars are both wants and needs. For some people cars are a necessity, as in driving for work delivering certain items where public transportation wont be possible, driving long distances, and people that have certain schedules. On the other hand, cars can be a want for some people who like showing off their cars, and for those who drive for their own and other’s pleasure.

Now for most cases, having the latest and most up to date technology is not a need.  It is simply something that people want.  This is natural because we, as humans want to have what is currently "trending".  Unfortunately, when people get more and more of this harmful technology, it continues to hurt the environment and the person purchasing it.  When getting all the latest technology, it consumes resources that then release more carbon into the atmosphere.  The production of technology uses non-renewable resources and coal to generate electricity.  According to Exploros' How Technology can Harm the environment, "Carbon emissions get released into the atmosphere from cars, airplanes, power plants and factories."  this says that most of the carbon emissions are released from factories that produce things like technology.  So, to save our planet and our health, it is important to distinguish between the Wants and Needs in our life. 

Sources:
1. https://www.exploros.com/summary/how-te … technology.
2. https://www.trvst.world/environment/neg … vironment/

I think everybody should be on the same page for this. Latest technology is a want. There is nothing that can convince me that a person needs a new phone as soon as a company releases one. I've has my phone for about 4 years now, and it still functions perfectly fine. Sure, it doesn't have some features that newer phones have, but it has the basic texting, calling, social media, etc. A phone can last you for a good amount of time, and consistently buying a new one isn't doing the planet any favours. All because the new phone seems super cool with so many new updates, I'm sure it's not much different than the three models before it.

In these past 20 or so years, pretty much every person in the world has acquired a  cellphone. But, is it a want or a need? In my opinion, i believe it can be both. On one hand, in ancient times, the people didn't have phones and they lived perfectly fine lives, getting entertainment from books, art, music, dance etc. But on the other hand, we have technology that can give us all that entertainment without having to go anywhere or do anything, plus we have instant communication. We can just click a few buttons and send a message to anyone in the whole entire world.
In conclusion, our phones connect us like never before, which can be good or bad.

Although, objectively, phones are most definitely a want I would argue that within our current society, they are a need. Within our society, our phones/the internet connect us and have created a whole new culture that cannot just be taken away. People use their phones every single day and give us a way of self-expression, communication, accessing information, and much more. Without phones, the world would be so different that it is unimaginable, which is why I think that phones are definitely a need.

Hello, I am a student at the Historiador Chabas institute in Denia, Alicante.
In my opinion, the mobile phone is a necessity that has provided us with many advanced technologies. Nowadays everyone has a mobile phone, where this object becomes multipurpose since you can listen to music, use the map, read books on it and a thousand other uses. It is true that today the last generation is already based on all this, and it can imply a lot in our future intellectual development.
There are applications that steal from us and make it easier for us to do it directly or even stores where they lose workers due to technology. In conclusion, I agree that the mobile phone and the technologies notch connect us and facilitate us in good and bad ways.

Well, a lot of people think phones are a want, and in part it’s true, because if in the past anyone need it and they were able to live and evolute without them, nowadays we should be able too.
The fact that our society has learned how to live with them, makes things harder to stop using them.
Last but not least, using phones with moderation is not that bad so we need to be aware of our planet to not endanger it in excess.

I think that for a lot of people a phone is a need. Society is changing to be more technology focused. For some professions and lifestyles not having a phone is detrimental. Times are changing and will continue doing so. Sometimes change is great, women's rights etc. but change can also be bad, climate change etc. But I think that phones can be used for good. Phones can share information about climate change and also reduce the need for travel. Obviously, phones have ill side effects, but what doesn't? The use of phones will be a controversial topic for a long time, but a phone is a tool, which is not inherently good or bad.

i personally think that it can be both but i am leaning more towards a need. i think it is a need because for a young teenager like me, i rely on my phone for things like directions and to call others. i also find that i feel safer when i have my phone, like at late at night i feel more comfortable walking with a phone rather then not having one. therefore i see having phone as a need more than a want.

in my opinion phones are wants. Sometimes they're necessary such as when you need to call someone for help  or you need to search something up but they are also made to be as addictive as possible and they have allowed people to hide behind a screen and belittle others which have definitely altered peoples lives . Back when tech wasn't as prominent, no one needed to worry about coming home to see people making fun of them, but now it's an extra thing to worry about. Phones are definitely very useful and handy but they also bring lots of distraction and chaos.

I believe that phones are either a need or want depending on your age. For younger kids (elementary aged) phones are mostly used for games and messaging friends which is nice and good to have, but is definitely not a necessity. Whereas when you get older (high school) teachers tend to rely on phones a fair bit for online educational games like Kahoot, answering quizzes online, and a big thing is teams. Our school uses teams to communicate all our assignments and reminders. And you could use a laptop or ipad but having a phone makes it a lot easier and is more accesible. So thats why i think it really depends on your age.

I believe phones have become more of a need rather than just a want. Phones have become essential for communication, staying in contact with others, and accessing information on the go. I think that a lot of people see phones as a need but also as a want. For example kids ranging from grade 6-12 want the newest I phone to try and fit in with the cool kids or having the newest update but in reality you can have an iPad, computer, or laptop that can do all the things a phone can do. In conclusion of what I've been saying so far phones now a days have became more of a need than a want.

Yes, I feel that phones are a need and not a want.For example, people rely on there phones a lot because they help make our lives easier, let us communicate with our peers and family and a phone does more work than a computer, camera and calculator. I feel for me, I rely on my phone for everything and without it I would be so lost. You also brought fact on how people in olden days didn't need phones and technology. Our world has changed a lot since the olden days and  there are many more crazy things that are happening in our world and without our phones I feel that we would bye unaware on what's happening and what we can do. To end this off, I feel that phone sae a want and not a need.

I think phones can be both a want as well as a need. Phones can be wants especially for younger kids, just wanting to get a phone for games and, to “look cool/older” but I don’t think most younger kids need phones especially if they aren’t using it to contact with there parents and or other safety reasons in needing a phone. Although phones, can be wants for some people phones are a need. For me, my phone is a need because I have to walk to and from places sometimes, and need a phone in case of an emergency, for example if I get lost or I need to contact someone about something. Those are my reasons on why I think phones can be wants and needs in different situations.

I think that many of the things with which we waste a large amount of carbon are simple desires, which are not necessary to live, we simply buy it or use it in order to improve our quality of life even if it is not a primary need.
Do we really need all the things we buy? As teenagers it is difficult for us to distinguish between needs and desires, but we can try.
If we were more aware and less selfish with the environment we would stop doing things like: reducing unnecessary purchases or reducing the consumption of meats or ultra-processed elements. That these are simple wishes.

si no irene

There are many things in life that are wants and needs, but there is a big difference between the two. A want is something that you want, like travelling and entertainment. Needs are things that are necessary for living, like food, water, clothes and shelter. Needs are what your body needs to function properly. Wants are things that your body doesn't need to function.

That's very true. A lot of people will only think of what they want and need, not what the planet needs. They might wnat to go on vacation every few months, but they don't think about how the planet needs to be treated properly. Needs are things like water and food, and preferably shelter, and it is horrible because some people can have all of their needs and all of their wants, where as some less fortunate people can't even meet all of their own needs. I think a lof of people need to think of the bigger picture, and not just what will make them happy for the next week. There's plenty of things that you can do in place of the things that they want that will impact the environment less in a negative way.

I totally agree with you there is a big gap between wanting and earning. nd also need are something very important and alot of people think that if they do somthing good for the world everyone will start doing the same but that is not how it works.

@KenH I totally agree with you! Wants and needs are definitely different. On terms of supporting our environment, we often only focus on what we want and disregard what impact it might have on the environment. For example, we spend a lot on clothing, and we don’t tend to think about its impact. Today the fashion industry is responsible for 10% of our global emissions. A recent survey revealed that many women agree that an article of clothing worn 1-2 times can be considered “old”. We really need to take a step back and consider the consequences of our actions. When we buy so much clothing, we waste a large range of resources and cause numerous negative impacts on our environment. As a society we have to be aware of our choices and should think about our wants vs our needs.

What you say is true, since today many families and many people can afford to travel, spend their whims and look out for themselves, but this is true that for a small part there is greater pollution and we do not see many times for what the planet needs just because we feel like it and the "for once nothing happens" really does happen.

And personally they could see improvements on the planet and less pollution from airplanes if, for example, flights of less than 45 minutes were eliminated or if we made airplanes that do not pollute as much.
At the same time, pollution from cars, motorcycles, and motorcycles could be reduced if we did not go to a place that is a 5-minute walk away, so taking the motorcycle instead of walking, and if we all make a small change in the end it could be improved the pollution of the planet

We want to eat pizza and play video games. We need to save the earth. We want to take the short trip to the kitchen garbage. We need to bring it all the way out to the recycling. We want to buy those sick new Nikes. We need to stop. Think. Make the right call.

Do you know how many kilos of CO2 it takes for one phone to be made? According to 8billiontrees.com, it takes about of 80 kg of CO2 emissions to make a phone. This is just the process of mining the materials and exporting them, manufacturing them in factories, and transporting them to companies. After it has been bought, it will emit more CO2 when it is connected to the internet and is being used. With this amount of carbon being used just for one phone, imagine how much CO2 has been emitted because of all the phones around the world. According to researchers in McMaster University, the total carbon emissions of phones are currently 125 megatons per year. So is there any ways to lower our carbon emissions through our phones? Yes, there are many ways to reduce this amount. One way is that we can reduce the screen time of our phones so that less WiFi is used and less co2 is emitted. Another solution is to stop upgrading our phones every year because of the release of new models. Data  shows that newer iPhone models emit more kgs of carbon than older models. Using our phones for an hour every day causes 63 kgs of carbon emissions yearly and using it for 10 hours a day emits 86 kgs of carbon. Reducing screen time and not buying new phone models  will not only be beneficial to us, but also to our planet.
Works cited:
https://8billiontrees.com/carbon-offset … 0processes.
https://reboxed.co/blogs/outsidethebox/ … -reduce-it

Do we really need all the things we buy? As teenagers, it is difficult for us to distinguish between needs and desires, but we can try.
In my opinion, people cannot live without satisfying their personal desires, because this action produces them happiness, but they can realize when they cross a limit that they impose on themselves. For example, we can make a list of wishes, the objectives of which we can tick off in turn, every month. Thus, we will have time to think if we still need all those things, such as a new phone or an mp3 player every year, buying only the strictly necessary and being happy.
In life it is important to maintain a balance between needs and desires, because a new phone model does not make you a better person, it only makes you dependent on it.
In conclusion, don't waste your money on expensive things just because they are fashionable, because as quickly as they appeared, they disappear as quickly, and social media contributes to publicize these aspects of unnecessary consumerism, using new technology against us.

I agree that it is okay to buy some of your wants to make you happy but you should not go overboard.

Yes, this is essential for people to distinguish the line between happy and obsessive.

I mostly agree, most teenagers have a bit trouble separating some of their wants from their needs, but it is not extremely difficult for separating all of their wants vs needs. I like the idea of having a timer from the moment you want something until you let yourself buy it, i believe it could help you realize how unimportant some items you want really are. I also agree with the fact that you brought up how most people are against every since unnecessary purchase, but most people also  fail to ignore that something unnecessary, yet simple, could bring a great amount of joy into someone’s life. I also greatly appreciate the mention of how social media pushes these products onto us as consumers.

Yes as teenagers we must think about our wants and needs because the unnessesary things could increase our carbon footprint to unhealthy levels.

Don't fall for the shopping scam people!

I agree, we need to make sure that we are not constantly getting new things because we do not need the newest thing and it really taxes the environment.

I agree with this because as fun as it is to always have brand new things we should be able to focus more on the priorities, like what's essential to our health like food and shelter. As a teenager, there's a lot of wants like the new iphone that comes out but there's a lot more that builds up once you get something new. I agree with being able to maintain a certain balance between wants and need. I think it's important we do this to keep the satisfaction in getting something new when you do. About 5.6 billion people in the world have access to mobile phones, whether they have one, or they borrow someone else's which is leaving room for the 2.4 billion who may not even be able to afford a phone. I think having one is a certain necessity depending on the situation, but that doesn't necessarily mean getting the brand new one right as it's released. Being appreciative for what you have definitely benefits to everything you earn like when you can buy something new. To a certain extent, I think social media does over advertise things to you as a consumer to make it interesting and intriguing but there's so many better things you can probably buy.
https://datareportal.com/global-digital … ber%202023.

Styrofoam food containers are used widely in almost every single restaurant you could think of. It’s a non reusable container that is cheap and easy to use. It could be considered as not disposable  to, as it could take some upwards of 500 years just to decompose. It pollutes and increases the size of landfills, and won't stop anytime soon. Try your best to bring reusable containers next time you go to a restaurant.

I see what your saying and I agree with you styrofoam containers are easy and cheap to use but cause lots of pollution and we need a better way for it.

Plastic is a material that is widely used in our daily lives due to its convenience and how it can be used for many things making it versatile. But have you ever wondered how harmful it can be to the environment? One harmful thing is that it kills Ocean Life. This affects sea turtles, ocean birds, sharks, and everything in between it can also kill some marine life as well as garbage patches which makes living in that area uninhabitable. This can also be applied to land animals as they too are harmed by plastic choking on plastics. Not to mention it also affects our plant growth which interferes with our ability to grow food or feed livestock. These are not the only things that plastic affects, just major things. We can’t magically go on without plastic but we can start little by little to solve the problem. https://www.twicetheice.com/blog/5-ways … vironment/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/a … 6971832721

Wants and needs is good because it heklps peoples enviormewnt footprint making sure that it dosnt make it go high because if it does then people will have too much carbon footprint.

One of the primary sources of meat, beef (cow meat), is detrimental to the environment because the digestion process of cows produce a lot of methane that is released into the atmosphere. The US is also the country that consumes the most amount of beef by a long shot, so even switching to other meat sources like chicken, is a way to help our ecosystem and reduce the amount of beef production. Plant based meat is also another great option, although it isn't available to everyone, which is unfortunate. However, in the future, more affordable plant based meet would be an excellent solution,

Understanding the difference between wants and needs of a teenager is super important to express and cut our carbon footprint. Needs are things you are urgent to need like food, shelter, and clothes. Wants are a total different things than need. Wants are things that are extra that make life easier and makes it more fun for you. A lot of our carbon footprint comes from the things that we want. Things that we don't really need but have a desire for. Things like travel, buying a lot of useless items, and  energy usage. If we really think about it and get the things we really need instead of things that are extra, it might affect the amount of carbon we have in our footprint. This helps out planet out and us at the same time. This can change the amount of carbon in the world.

Understanding the difference between wants and needs of a teenager is super important to express and cut our carbon footprint. Needs are things you are urgent to need like food, shelter, and clothes. Wants are a total different things than need. Wants are things that are extra that make life easier and makes it more fun for you. A lot of our carbon footprint comes from the things that we want. Things that we don't really need but have a desire for. Things like travel, buying a lot of useless items, and  energy usage. If we really think about it and get the things we really need instead of things that are extra, it might affect the amount of carbon we have in our footprint. This helps out planet out and us at the same time. This can change the amount of carbon in the world.

What's the difference between a want and a need? An example of a want could be wanting to get new clothes everyday, or wanting the brand new iphone right as it comes out if you already have one. An example of a need could be your basic resources like food and water, and depending on the situation, an electronic device. The difference between wanting the new iphone if you have one and needing an electronic device could be the fact that what you have probably functions enough unless it's completely dated while some people don't have devices that may need them for school. The difference between shopping for clothes every week and food every week is you probably already have clothes to wear as you might be running low on money and may need to prioritize the right things.

I feel that needs should always prioritize wants.

I also agree that you should prioritize needs over wants because a need is more urgent than a want. When you want something you don’t have to get it right away. Also using your phone example, lets say you went to the store and you had the choice to buy food or a new phone. Well let’s see, without food you would starve which has long lasting health issues tied with it; while without a new phone nothing really changes, it’s just something that you’d have to live without.

Wanting the latest technology is a need. Personally, it's not often that I get the new phone that apple comes out with every year or so. I would like to get it ,but I know it's just a want and it's not a necessity. When I got my first iphone, I didn’t consider the impact that i'll have on the earth’s environment. But learning about carbon footprints  in my biology class, has made me consider how much carbon were releasing out into the atmosphere, and how much harm that impacted the earth ( climate change).In order to reduce the use of carbon footprint, I should began  to think about the outcomes of my needs and wants.

Having the newest cellphone or Mp3 player is definitely a want.I feel like having a flip phone is definitely  a need because of how the world is

Having the newest cellphone or Mp3 player is definitely a want.I feel like having a flip phone is definitely  a need because of how the world is and you need some sort of communication but getting a new iPhone or phone in general every time a new one comes out is definitely a want.

Having the newest cellphone or Mp3 player is definitely a want.I feel like having a flip phone is definitely  a need because of how the world is and you need some sort of communication but getting a new iPhone or phone in general every time a new one comes out is definitely a want.

Carbon footprint is the cumulative carbon dioxide emitted from humans, this includes driving, the amount of electricity you use, and even how long you have the ac on for. But keep in mind Carbon footprint isn't a bad or a good thing, it allows us to keep track of how much we use resources, but it also shows us how much gas we release into the air. To decrease our carbon emissions we must differentiate what's a need and what's a want. First off our needs, this includes cars, electricity, and foods and wants are products that we can live without. If we are able to reduce our wants we can help the carbon emissions lower and save our atmosphere.

When it comes to material indulgence, teenagers are one of the best examples we have. Many of us spend time shopping for fun, going out to eat junk food, and tending to buy the most stuff because it’s trendy at the moment. Now, although this trend of teenagers buying clothes and bags to “ride the wave” has been prevalent all throughout history, is it impossible to deny that it has greatly picked up speed in the modern day (the last decade or so). I know many people my age that blame other teenagers for being wasteful and ignorant, and even more older folks that look down on teenagers for the same reason. One thing that I believe heavily contributes to this is the fact that they don’t particularly get to choose the world they grew up in. Sure, they can choose whether to leave flashy clothes and appearances behind, but everything from the media to familial/friendly relationships has been conditioned to praise those who come up with something new, adore those who made fashion trends,  and interact with those who follow them. Those who distance themselves from social media and fashion tend to gravitate towards other things like books, art, deep friendships with fewer people instead of large friend groups and buying whatever is trendy at the moment. So, it’s not completely their fault. It’s also ours. We have to create a more positive environment that doesn’t support mindless indulgence and spending, and instead romanticize and encourage others to strive towards simple living in order for these ideas of being waste-conscious to others. It’s not their fault whether their parents drive them to school or make them walk/bike. It’s not their choice which light bulbs they use in their house. They didn’t choose how far they lived from school. We all need to work together to make a better future for all of us.

Meat consumption contributes to carbon emissions through various interconnected factors. Firstly, the process of deforestation is often driven by the need for land to raise livestock or grow animal feed crops, releasing stored carbon dioxide and reducing the planet's capacity to absorb it. Additionally, ruminant animals like cattle produce methane during digestion, a prominent greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming. The management of animal waste can also result in the release of methane and nitrous oxide, further exacerbating the problem. The production of feed crops requires significant resources and often involves the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, contributing to carbon emissions. Furthermore, the transportation, refrigeration, and processing of meat products consume energy and emit carbon dioxide. By recognizing these connections, reducing meat consumption or transitioning to more sustainable dietary choices, we can subtract from the 40% of greenhouse gasses that come from agriculture and deforestation.

https://www.scientificamerican.com/arti … ing%20land.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30209430/

I agree with the fact that meat has a major impact on the environment because of the amount of carbon dioxide it production from the production of agriculture.

These are all very good arguments, and are very knowledgeable. It also is a great lead to why we should stop meat production, stop harming animals, and switch to plant-based meat.

Humans are natural consumers. We find it exceedingly difficult to separate our wants from our needs, and that is leading to our downfall. According to numerous sources, a human only needs 5 basic things to survive: nutrition, water, clean air, shelter, and sleep. But is it possible to thrive with just these simplicity’s? I think the answer is up to us, a lot of the complications that humans deal with come from ourselves and other people. For example, social media is now a major contributor to mass consumerism which is a substantial issue in our world today. We are influenced to buy things that we believe will improve our quality of life, but in fact these things are just adding to our carbon footprint. The idea of mass consumerism became prevalent in the early 1920’s when individuals were encouraged to buy goods in increasing quantities. It was defined by an impulsive desire to spend money. Now, it is a vicious game in which big corporations are winning and our earth is most definitely losing. To conclude, my thought is that humans, in there early state, before mass consumerism was a thing, would have been able to live and maybe even thrive with the bare minimum. For 21st century humans, it would take an immense effort to destroy many habits, but if it means saving our climate, is it possible?

It might be hard to thrive with the bare minimum but it is definitely possible to thrive with a lot less than normal wants.

climate change is caused by many global issues, but humans are the main problem as we do not appreciate the earth when we use items that harm it. even though these materials are more convenient, they are destroying the earth as we continue to live today. One example is cars. cars use fossil fuels to operate, and these gases rise into the air and pollute the atmosphere. although cars are one of the best options to get around places, there are other ways of transportation that do not harm the earth, such as walking, biking, electric vehicles or even public transportation and carpooling so more people can get around using less gas. A car is a want because there are other options that people can use to transport. https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/201 … 713722001/ and https://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/s … ate-change

In the United States, cars bring a lot of change. These include adjustments to business, technology, and daily living.Cars need more restrictions but they should not be removed. Cars increased people's access to jobs, services, and personal independence.

https://www.ncpedia.org/automobile-soci … 20services.

I agree, we need to convert to public transportation/rideshares more

yeah on god this facts

Cars definitely support a lot of people in their day to day lives, so I don't think we should completely eliminate them, but people should definitely try to use busses and public transportation as much as possible if able. Corporations like Tesla should also make electric cars more accessible to everyone, so we can help support the use of electric cars versus gas powered cars.

Yes, cars can be an issue but they also help individuals on a daily basis. Rather than taking them away completely, how about encouraging people to carpool or provide individuals with a safe form of transportation? Getting rid of cars would make getting to work difficult and that would cause a downfall in the daily lives of individuals.

America is muscle-made, nobody is giving up their v6 Mustang. Honestly, if you have a v6 though it should be banned. Electric cars are a better alternative but the only company right now is Tesla and the cars are not cheap at all. There is a way to power cars through water but the government would stop that from happening, they already have.

Most people can't really afford other options than cars to get to work though. If you live outside a big city or even the suburbs there is no train or bus to transport you where you need to go plus people have to worry about getting to work on time too. So unless electric cars become more affordable and convenient or some other form of transformation is developed most people are going to be driving cars.

There is a huge difference between wanting something and needing something.I understand that from time to time, we can buy expensive things that are in trending, but which we do not necessarily need.What is very important, is that we don’t have to make a habit of this.There are people who can’t afford the bare minimum, and others who spend a lot of money on everything they see and like.Before buying something that you will most likely forget after two or three weeks, think twice.Think twice, if it’s a need or a want, because such habits produce financial and material waste!

I agree a lot with this post because differentiating between a want and a need is a crucial skill. Not just in relation to the environment, but in the interest of not creating bad money spending habits. Many people don't even have their basic needs met and in the interest of anyone financially struggling or less fortunate than yourself, donate your clothes, dont buy from fast fashion, and most importantly before making a purchase ask yourself; do I actually need this? If the answer is no, don't buy it in complete agreement with the above post, you will only be producing financial and material waste.

I appreciate your commentary and opinions but I personally don't understand how buying expensive clothes contributes to people's carbon footprints and the greenhouse effect. But I do believe that buying brand-new technology is kinda pointless for example if you have a good working iPad there is no point in buying a brand-new one because Apple just released it. I think companies are the main ones to blame for more carbon being released, they are producing these products and selling them to people like Apple comes out with. For example, Apple released about 430 million products globally in 2020. And the use of gas cars affects carbon emission a lot but I personally don't like electric cars. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, since 1970, CO2 emissions have increased by about 90% from fossil fuels and industrial processes.

Hi Diana, great post! I appreciate you bringing up needs vs wants and how it contributes to financial and material waste. This is especially a problem in the consumer-oriented market and culture in the United States. I myself am guilty of this as I become obsessed with certain hobbies, buy items pertaining to that hobby, and then let those items sit in my house once I lose interest in the hobby or activity. Some people will drive 45 minutes to a store just to buy a shirt that they will wear once for a holiday or event. I agree with you that people should think twice about their purchases and that more conscientious purchasing habits will reduce financial and material waste for individuals.

This is unfortunately a huge part of American society. Fast fashion here is high and there is little love to thrifting or giving away thing we no longer need to those who do.

I agree, I think a lot of the time people will purchase items that aren't necessarily needed. Most of the time the clothing is also made poorly and rips after a few wears.Unfortunately this is a huge issue in society right now

I think the problem, more tends to be the amount of certain trends people tend to hop onto, when it comes to clothing, with ever-changing styles, forms of expressing what you tend to like, come to mind. I believe that the circulating market for clothing is a problem, at least with the constant buying of new items, people tend to not need as much as they want. I believe people should have the ability to mostly buy whatever they want, but when it comes to such a large-scale behavior, it can have disastrous impacts on the environment, most of these side effects can be traced to the American adoption of consumerism.

Air conditioning contributes to 3.94% of carbon emissions, this means that it releases 1,950 million tons of carbon dioxide into our atmosphere annually. Most people run their air conditioning all day long even when it may not be needed. The people who most commonly do this are upper class families. This idea is supported by the fact that on the worldwide map you can see that predominantly wealthier neighborhoods have higher carbon emissions. This is because this demographic can afford to splurge and run electricity all day. This is compared to those who are more conscious to spend money and refrain from running as much electricity. If people were to consider what they need over what they want, carbon emissions would be reduced as they refrain from running air conditioning all day. People would begin to only use air conditioning when needed and work to cool their houses in other ways. If people were to use the mentality of need over want the overall carbon emission in our world would go down and air conditioning is just one example of this.

https://www.nrel.gov/news/press/2022/nr … 20humidity.

Thank you for your statement. Your statement that "Air conditioning contributes to 3.94% of carbon emissions, this means that it releases 1,950 million tons of carbon dioxide into our atmosphere annually" is an exciting statement. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), air conditioning and the cooling of buildings contribute to roughly 6% of global greenhouse gas emissions, with a large portion of these emissions coming from refrigerants. The IEA estimates this figure will triple by 2050 if no action is taken. Furthermore, your point that running the air conditioning all day when it may not be needed is a common practice among upper-class families is well supported by research. A study conducted by researchers at the University of California found that wealthier households in the United States tend to have larger carbon footprints than those in lower-income households, with energy consumption being a major contributing factor. This is supported by the worldwide map you mentioned, which shows that wealthier neighborhoods tend to have higher carbon emissions. In conclusion, I think that your statement is very good at highlighting the impact of air conditioning on carbon emissions and the importance of individuals actions on reducing carbon emissions.

Wants or Needs? Many people today are heavily influenced by social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, etc, as well as streaming networks such as Zeus, Netflix, and many more media platforms. Being a young girl in a world full of materialistic things, you want to buy everything that you see! But are these things necessary or are you just so consumed by social media platforms that you are not considering your negative contribution to the world?
After researching how the climate cost of fashion and the process of manufacturing these items, a research study made in 2019 tells the audience about how each step of the process  of creating fashion items that we as customers don’t even take into consideration when making these purchases that heavily affect our atmosphere in a variety of ways such as simply buying a pair of jeans. The emission of the production of cotton, to the delivery of the product to its location, comes up to around 33.4kg of carbon being released into the atmosphere. Another way that brands in the fashion department are negatively contributing to our atmosphere is by wasting 20% of water worldwide due to fabric dying and treatment.
From personal experience of frequently going shopping, I can admit that a lot of the clothes that I buy, I like and wear often, but there is also a good amount of clothes that I've purchased over the years that I've either thrown away or donated. As well as small items used to decorate my home or small items like slime and hairclips. I am not here to say that I think people should not buy themselves new items but since so many people in the world are so influenced by social media to buy the cool things that we see online, it is easy to forget how we are affecting our Earth. Some practical ways that customers can still buy items when shopping while not contributing as much carbon into the atmosphere are by using coupons, signing up for mailing lists to be alerted when new deals and sales are going on, shopping at store outlets instead of regular malls because store outlets sell brand new quality items for prices that become lower and lower every day and bargain! Recycling old garments and repairing old clothes. Lastly, the next time you are out shopping you can simply ask yourself if the items you are purchasing are worth affecting the amount of carbon going into the atmosphere and if this item is something that you really need and will be able to keep for years.

Source: https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/featu … o-ambiente

Meat consumption is a big issue because it harms the environment, our health, and animals. People are eating more meat, which leads to problems like deforestation, pollution, and climate change. Too much meat can also make us sick with heart disease and obesity. It's important to think about eating less meat and choosing more sustainable options for a healthier planet and ourselves.

Phones and computers are very important, but at what point does it become a want and not a need? Phones are very useful in today's generation, but we only keep them a fraction of their full lives. The average American uses their phone for approximately two and a half years. However, smartphones have an average life of four to ten years. Every phone uses 80 kg (176.37 lbs) of carbon to make. So why do we need a new phone every two and a half years if it lasts for at least four years and could even live up to ten years? At that point, it becomes a want over a need. That is what we need to change. Technology is one of the biggest industries in the world today. If we can limit the making and selling of new phones, we could potentially lower our carbon footprint by a significant amount over time. Just this simple change in lifestyle can possibly limit climate change and give us more time to make more significant changes and altogether stop different problems like glaciers falling and animals going extinct.

Links:
https://8billiontrees.com/carbon-offset … 0processes.
https://www.bankmycell.com/blog/average … #section-1
https://www.refurb.me/blog/how-long-doe … ment-cycle

Climate change is a dire consequence of human behavior that demands immediate attention. It is high time we recognize the impact of our wants and needs on the environment. We must acknowledge that our consumption patterns play a significant role in contributing to the problem. By prioritizing our needs over our wants, we can reduce our carbon footprint and minimize the damage caused to our planet. It is our responsibility to make conscious choices that benefit the environment and secure a sustainable future for ourselves and generations to come.

I think you need to balance the number of things you want.

I think that your think wrong

I strongly agree with user Mihai-26 and how important it is to know your needs and wants and how you can put aside your wants. We as human beings need to be conscious about the consumption of our wants and to know when it comes to buying unnecessary items. The manufacture of these wants is a huge problem in today's society. This is why we to start giving this topic more attention and changing up our lifestyles.

https://www.sciencejournalforkids.org/w … rticle.pdf

I agree with Mihai-26 when they say prioritizing needs over wants will reduce carbon footprint. It is a well-known fact that even if you get something delivered, you still contribute to the CO2 that was emitted when it was made and shipped to you, those emissions are called indirect emissions. The more stuff we buy, the more indirect emissions are produced, if we simply buy less of what we want and instead prioritize what we need, we can cut down our indirect emissions and carbon footprint. This may not seem like much of an incentive to buy fewer things you want but if everybody does their part, it will add up and make a positive, lasting change on the earth. https://www.sciencejournalforkids.org/w … rticle.pdf

I completely agree with Mihai-26 and how important it is to realize how much humans have impacted the environment. I think Mihai talking about prioritizing needs over wants is extremely important. If humans only use 1 pair of shoes, passed down clothing from siblings, carpool, bike, and turn off lights we could contribute to trying to stop global warming. Humans need to start taking action as soon as they can because global warming is having extreme spikes in Co2. Some evidence of this is in the website the Keeling curve, they show a graph that shows a spike in Co2 emissions in

2020.https://keelingcurve.ucsd.edu/

I completely agree with Mihai-26 and how important it is to realize how much humans have impacted the environment. I think Mihai talking about prioritizing needs over wants is extremely important. If humans only use 1 pair of shoes, passed down clothing from siblings, carpool, bike, and turn off lights we could contribute to trying to stop global warming. Humans need to start taking action as soon as they can because global warming is having extreme spikes in Co2. Some evidence of this is in the website the Keeling curve, they show a graph that shows a spike in Co2 emissions in 2020.

2020.https://keelingcurve.ucsd.edu/

Many things we own were bought just because we felt compelled by what we saw on the internet. In reality, many of the recommended items, especially in the case of clothes, ended up in the closet, worn once or twice or never at all. Most people prefer cheap clothes, whose price is also reflected in the quality of the product. In order to stop overbuying and to stop being fooled by all the recommendations found on social media, people should understand that a more expensive product, but with a better material, is more useful and lasts longer than one from a fast fashion clothing online store. A simple and cheaper way is to buy clothes from thrifting stores. By choosing to buy secondhand clothing instead of brand new, you reduce waste and help the planet. Also you can buy quality clothes at a right price.

I agree with you that you should buy better quality clothes than the ones that are in trend. I think it's much better to buy quality clothes than some branded ones. It's also a great idea to buy used clothes, and it's an even better idea to donate your clothes that you don't use because it reduces waste and thus helps the Earth and people.

I agree with your argument about prioritizing your needs over wants. When researching the topic on how much the clothing industry (+transportation) contributes to carbon emissions the results where shocking. The process of making clothing also takes away some of the Earths most important recourses. For example it takes thousands of liters of water to make a pair of jeans. Limiting your spending of clothing can help with carbon emissions as well as helping to save water. It can be very hard to limit the amount of clothing you buy, because shopping can be really fun, and having more clothing means more options for outfits. The problem with this is how it effects the release of Greenhouse gases to the atmosphere. Not only does making clothing release emissions but the transportations causes significant damage. To transport all the new clothing made it releases to much carbon emissions which is very harmful for our atmosphere. There is also the fact that fashion brands come out with new and trendy clothing every week, and this prompts individuals to buy them. This is harmful because the more clothing people buy the more they throw out, and most of it is not donated and end up in a landfill. TO help prevent this people can shop and thrift stores and second hand stores because not only is it much cheaper but it also is good quality. You can also donate all the clothing you don't need or wear, and this will help because others will avoid going to the big fashion chains and spending more money.

This is the source I used for my research: https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/featu … o-ambiente

I agree with your argument about buying clothing items that you need, rather than the items you want. In today's society, we are fixated on buying clothes that are "next in the trends". Often times even I find myself buying clothes that are "trendy" rather than buying clothes that I need more of. Now more than ever, social media has taken a toll on how much input we get from other people. This has caused us to buy an absurd amount of items that we don't need, just because we can, and then throw them out when they are no longer in style. Fast Fashion companies like Shein, ZARA, Forever 21, GAP, etc, are all a part of the problem. Not only do these companies require an intense amount of labor, but they have a huge impact on Carbon Emissions. Carbon emissions affect our atmosphere in so many ways, causing our Earth to heat up more than it should. For example, many animals in the Arctic are going extinct, and we are getting harsher summers with shorter winters yearly. To prevent this issue from getting worse, I would recommend buying clothes that are better quality and have less of an impact on carbon emissions. These clothes might cost more, but in the long run, they will last longer. I would also recommend shopping at thrift stores where you can get second-hand clothing, that is still good quality, at affordable prices.

Source: https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/featu … o-ambiente

I agree with the argument about buying only items that you need, not ones you want. In our society today there is a emphasis on cheap, fast fashion. This upwards trend in unsustainable fashion will cause a spike in carbon emissions. A large amount of our carbon emissions come from purchases, which cause our Earth to heat up much more than it naturally should. For example, to acquire new clothing it has to be made, processed and shipped to you or the store you buy from. All of these steps emit massive amounts of greenhouse gasses into our atmosphere. The fashion industry is harmful to the Earth in other ways as well. For example, the industry uses 93 billion cubic meters of water, which is enough to meet the needs of 5 million people.  A lasting solution to this issue of fast fashion would be to buy from quality stores which sell long-lasting clothes, or even better, buy from second-hand stores and thrift stores. It can be tempting to purchase new clothes often if you have the money to because more clothes means more options, but you can still get good quality clothing from thrifting. Oftentimes, it is cheaper to thrift as well. In the article I read it stated that people with higher incomes tend to purchase more and have a larger carbon footprint overall. This is because they may not need to save as much money on things such as clothing or transportation. These people will probably buy more clothes more often, causing them to contribute more to climate change. Therefore, the fashion industry is very harmful to our planet and we should do our best to purchase sustainable items to help combat this issue.

Research sites: https://www.sciencejournalforkids.org/w … rticle.pdf  and https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/featu … o-ambiente

I totally agree. The way we think about our clothing needs versus wants has a big impact on global warming. Clothes are something we all need to stay covered and comfortable, but the problem arises when our desire for the latest fashion trends and constant shopping leads to unnecessary and disposable clothing. This "fast fashion" culture is bad for the environment. It means more factories and energy use, which leads to more greenhouse gas emissions. Plus, all the transportation involved in shipping clothes around the world adds to the carbon footprint. And when we throw away unwanted clothes, they end up in landfills and produce methane, a powerful greenhouse gas. I think we can make a difference by taking a more sustainable approach to clothing and challenging ourselves and others to purchase less, especially when we don't need it. This can involve choosing quality garments that last longer, supporting ethical and eco-friendly brands, embracing second-hand shopping, and recycling or donating our unwanted clothing. By making these conscious choices, we can contribute to mitigating the fashion industry's environmental impact and help combat global warming. Here is a link I found with some facts about fast fashion and the damage the industry causes: https://goodonyou.eco/fast-fashion-facts/

I agree with this because with that amount of waist that clothes and fast fashion cause, it is much better to get a good quality piece of clothing and wear it for a long time than wear something only once thats cheap and have it end up in the trash where it'll eventually end up polluting the environment. According to my sources, each person causes over 100 pounds of textile waiste to pollute the environment every year. I greatly believe that fast fashion needs to end and our society as a whole should become more aware of how many clothes we are waisting.

Research sites: https://www.bu.edu/sph/news/articles/20 … vironment/

https://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/s … st-fashion

Clothes are a necessity of human rights. However, you never need more clothes than you already have. Living in a society where shopping is regular and buying new clothes is an activity, it feels necessary when you want to follow the trend. Before getting to the factory that admits greenhouse gasses, take this back to the cotton plants the material is actually grown from. These plants require 2,700 liters of water, which a human drinks in two and a half years. This is very damaging to our environment, especially when the clothes are not for a "need" cause. Fast Fashion is very popular in our society however due to the impact on our environment makes the 2,700 liters of water worth no purpose. An Alternate option would be to buy from second hand stores, thrift, and donate your clothes. Work Cited: https://www.wri.org/insights/apparel-in … 6-graphics

I agree that it is an important to individually contribute to lowering your carbon footprint. Consuming less is a good way to do that because it lessens the demand for certain goods like clothes and also helps cut the amount of textile waste from either going into landfill and destroying natural habitats or getting burnt and contributing to air pollution. Ten percent of carbon emissions come from clothing landfills. Most of this also happens in foreign countries destroying the natural habitat and the air in these countries. A good example of this is Chile. Chile's clothing landfill, located in The Atacama desert, receives around 60,000 tons of clothing annually. This number is rising due to the expansion of fast fashion. These cheaper clothing are almost always made with polyester due to the fact that it is cheaper and longer lasting. This means that it can take up to two hundred years for a polyester garment to decompose. One way we can reduce the textiles shipped to landfills is to buy good quality clothing that you can keep for a long time. Buying cotton instead of polyester is good because it decomposes faster. Buying and donating to thrift stores is an affordable way to consume sustainable fashion and give it a second life.

Sources I used:https:

//www.bu.edu/sph/news/articles/2022/the-aftermath-of-fast-fashion-how-discarded-clothes-impact-public-health-and-the-environment/#:~:text=Once%20textiles%20are%20discarded%2C%2066,others%20over%20hundreds%20of%20years.

https://www.nationalgeographic.com/envi … 3820853070

https://nypost.com/2021/11/09/chilean-d … -clothing/

I agree that many items are bought because they are displayed in a way that makes us want to purchase it. Also, like you mentioned when you buy better quality clothing it lasts for a longer time which can lower ones carbon footprint. As stated in the article "More stuff = more climate change" more stuff = higher carbon footprint. This means everything someone buys increases their carbon footprint so the more they buy the higher their footprint will be.

Clothing is a massive industry in the U.S., grossing over half a trillion dollars in 2022. Big oil drilling companies and the burning of fossil fuels typically come to mind when thinking of climate change, but rarely is the impact of the clothing industry, specifically fast fashion, discussed. 1.92 million metric tons of textile waste are produced each year in the industry, that’s out of 100 billion produced annually. In addition, the production emits 1.2 billion metric tons of green gas each year. I found it really interesting to learn that even though oil is the most polluting industry in the world, fashion is the second. This is because of the rapid demand for the newest clothes, and trends that continue to change every few months. This demand is why companies like SHEIN, who rely on barely paid labor to make clothes, are producing so much waste. A new trend comes in, people want to stay on trend and purchase the clothing, and the next trend comes in and the old one is “out”. When those clothes aren’t worn, they are donated to a thrift store or just thrown out. No matter where they go, about two-thirds of unworn clothing eventually ends up in a landfill. Shopping at thrift stores and trying to buy clothes that would otherwise go to landfill is a great way to limit your carbon footprint in purchases. This constant question of want or need is important because while it’s important to express yourself and feel comfortable in your clothing, there’s a better way for our planet. The reason this cycle continues all comes down to the want of clothing, the desire to have new clothes. We need clothes, but sometimes it’s better to buy a sweatshirt from a thrift store or secondhand than buy it from a fast fashion company. In addition, purchasing clothing from smaller businesses that are more ethical and typically better for the environment as they are not mass produced.
Sources:
https://www.geneco.uk.com/news/fast-fas … s%20sector.

https://www.greenamerica.org/unraveling … ed-clothes

https://earth.org/statistics-about-fast-fashion-waste/

People spend money every day. Gen Z spends an average of $92.13 daily on education, groceries, eating out, cellphone service, etc. Do we need to spend all this money a day? Well, not really. Most people spend around 120 dollars on clothes per month, 438 dollars on food, and 150 dollars on gas, which is unnecessary. The reason people spend so much on clothes and other unnecessary things is because of the Diderot Effect. Once a person buys one thing, they want to keep buying more. Since we live in a capitalist society, buying unnecessary things is so normalized and even advertised. The society we live in today is run on the Diderot Effect and products are marketed to make us happy, which makes us spend more on useless things. People also spend so much money on food at grocery stores and on gas. Buying prepackaged food from the grocery store is actually more expensive than buying fresh food by the pound and making it yourself. Also, it is shown that electric cars are thousands of dollars cheaper than owning a gas-run car. Since we spend so much on a daily average, the CO₂ we release from the gas we use to drive our cars down to the food we buy and eat contributes to the CO2 rising in our atmosphere. Humans are carbon sources and since the industrial revolution, we've depended on burning fossil fuels to make our clothes and transportation. The ways we can lower the amount of CO2 in our atmosphere are not as complicated as people think. The easiest thing we can do to lower our carbon footprint is to buy fewer clothes or thrift more of our clothes. Investing in good quality clothes that will last a year or two, or thrifting all of your clothes means less fossil fuels are burned to make new, cheap, and bad quality clothes. Another thing we can do is grow and buy fresh and locally grown/made food. It's cheaper and better for the environment because no plastic is being made to package the food, also, if you grow your own food it's so satisfying being able to see your plants grow and thrive! One last simple thing we can do to reduce our carbon footprint is to take public transportation and/or upgrade to electric cars. Taking public transportation reduces the CO2 being released because there are multiple people riding the same vehicle. Also, many buses are now using green energy which is even better for the environment. If you need to drive around a lot then it could be a good investment to upgrade your car to an electric car. This saves our daily gas money and helps the environment as well. Implementing these simple things into our daily lives can help reduce our daily spending and help lower our CO2 emissions.

https://nextbigideaclub.com/magazine/ja … 0fulfilled.
https://www.sunmark.org/connect/sunmark … ou-measure
https://www.valuepenguin.com/average-ho … per%20year.
https://buyturmerix.com/blogs/education … kaged-food
https://www.nrdc.org/stories/electric-v … r-drive-ev

When thinking about hurting the Earth it tends to come to the mind that it's only carbon emissions from cars, drilling oil, and polluting the oceans are the only things that hurt the Earth. But no according to my research I found that fast fashion was one of the biggest polluters in the world next to oil. Fast fashion contributes a total of 10% of total global carbon emissions. When it comes to keeping up with the newest clothing trends is it really necessary to buy every piece of clothing that fits the trend currently in play. In a few weeks that trend would be forgotten and you won’t use that ever again because clothing trends barely come back into trend. Next time you see a piece of clothing that is in trend, know that globally we consume around 80 billion new pieces of clothing every year. Also note that we send 85% of the textiles we buy in the landfill annually. In the article it states, “We buy it, wear it once or twice, get sick of it—or realize it’s gone out of fashion—and bin it only to begin the cycle all over again.” With this mindset the resources on Earth will exponentially decrease till the point where there are not any more resources at all to give you those clothing that are in the current trend. A way that you can reduce the amount of textiles that go into the landfill, next time you can either donate it for others in need that need some sort of clothing to stay warm or hand it down to a sibling or friend. In conclusion, when going out to the mall next time try to resist buying that new shirt that looks cool at the moment, if you do this you can actually help save the environment and mother Earth.

Website:  https://sustainability.uq.edu.au/projec … ntal-havoc

Are household items a want or a need? When looking at the amount of carbon produced in the air, a majority of it comes from buying and consuming household items. After researching the consumption of products humans buy, I found that in a 2015 study, the use of household goods were responsible for 60% of global greenhouse emissions. Also, studies show that the richest one percent of the population produces twice as much carbon as the poorest fifty percent. The wealthier people are, the more carbon they expel into the air, resulting in a typical American's carbon emissions being five times as the world's average person. So next time you want to buy an unnecessary household item, remember your carbon footprint.

https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/ … look-good/

Are certain clothing brands and designer items wants or needs? After looking at the different categories of things that make up your carbon footprint, a big part of the total carbon emissions came from clothes and fashion-related items. After doing research I found that clothes and fashion take up 10% of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions (Wallen, 2022). This amount is catastrophic. Because clothes and extra accessories are not necessities it is important to find ways to cut down to help our planet. Some of the reasons why the footprint for fashion is so big is because of some of the textiles used, water, and unethical companies. Textiles are used to make clothing and other accessories. These textiles take up 79 billion cubic meters of water that were used for cotton growth and dying fabrics. Through this dying process, more than 15% of the world's wastewater comes from this type of fabric dying and other clothing production. Another way that carbon is emitted into the air through fashion is through fast fashion. Fast fashion is brands that mass produce trends and popular clothes in unethical ways and sell them at a cheap price to encourage people to buy more. This causes the consumption of clothes to be bigger since the price is lower causing people to not feel like they spent a lot of money and a large amount of clothing. These fast fashion brands are bad for the environment because they use cheaper textiles which take up many thousands of liters of water. These cheap materials cause the quality to go down causing people to throw it away faster and end up consuming more because of the limited amount of wear. After looking at these statistics I have realized that clothing and accessories are less of necessities and more of things people want. There are many ways to cut down on clothing consumption and more ethically make clothes. Some ways that we can do this is by selling clothes, donating, or giving them to friends and family. This could be beneficial because one can take clothes they no longer wear or like and give them to someone in need. Another way people can cut down on the amount of clothing consumption is through thrifting. Thrifting is buying second-hand clothing or lightly worn clothes. This recycles clothes for people in need or people to want new clothes without buying them brand new. In conclusion, it is important to take action on ways to limit our clothing consumption and help reduce water to save our planet.

https://acespace.org/2022/06/17/fast-fashion-101/

Wanting something is very distinguishable from needing something. For example, you need water to live, but you may want to have soda or some juice. This problem is huge in the technology industry as many people crave into their want for new technology and end up buying it. The average person buys a new phone around the two-year mark, while most phones can last from three to five years. Another great example of this is buying new clothing instead of reusing old clothes that still fit. These cravings make it so that the textile industry makes up for 10% of the greenhouse gas emissions, totaling above all of the international flights and maritime shipping combined. So next time you think about buying something it might be good to ask yourself if you truly need it.
If you would like to read more: https://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/en/ … nfographic

Wanting something is very distinguishable from needing something. For example, you need water to live, but you may want to have soda or some juice. This problem is huge in the technology industry as many people crave into their want for new technology and end up buying it. The average person buys a new phone around the two-year mark, while most phones can last from three to five years. Another great example of this is buying new clothing instead of reusing old clothes that still fit. These cravings make it so that the textile industry makes up for 10% of the greenhouse gas emissions, totaling above all of the international flights and martime shipping combined. So next time you think about buying something it might be good to ask yourself if you truly need it.
if you would like to read more : https://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/en/ … nfographic

Every 1,000 liters of water used by humans, emits around 10.6kg of carbon dioxide into the air. This makes us think about how much water we really need vs how much we just want. For example, when we take showers, do we need the water on while we wash our hair? The correct answer is NO. Furthermore, while doing the dishes, think about how much water you are using, and how much you could be saving. When it comes to cleaning, water is a very important resource, but the more water we use, the more our carbon footprint increases. Over 25% of the water used for large buildings/office complexes goes to waste. It is easy to think that the way we are living our everyday lives is correct because it is what we are used to, but it is important to know change must happen. Climate change is an issue that will probably never disappear within your lifetime, but that does not mean that you should not take your own steps to shrink your carbon footprint.

https://wint.ai/blog/the-carbon-footpri … 20deserves.

The wealthiest of people can afford the best. Whether it's expensive steak (red meat), constant travel (flights), or large houses (AC/Heat/Lights), these rich normals are some of the biggest contributers to our global CO2 emissions. According to the Guardian, "In 2010, the most affluent 10% of households emitted 34% of global CO2, while the 50% of the global population in lower income brackets accounted for just 15%. By 2015, the richest 10% were responsible for 49% of emissions against 7% produced by the poorest half of the world’s population." But it's understandable, access to more means more releases. Now how can we counter it? Well it can't be the same as taxes, everyone cutting down the same percent just wouldn't work. Rather, we can find more "expensive" earth friendly options. For example, instead of driving your expensive Mercedes, maybe we invest in a Tesla or other electric powered vehicle. Or instead of going for the red meats, we find alternatives. But cutting down doesn't mean never having, it just means that the constant flights and heat in our lives are leading to an extreme downfall of our Earth.

https://www.theguardian.com/environment … ding-study

The rise of environmental problems is rooted with the structure of social problems. According to The London School of economics and political science (2017), rich household make up 12 metric tons of CO2 a year on just driving cars, which is about 8 month for an entire lower income family household. It is estimate that one dollar spent on gasoline creates 3.7 kilograms of carbon dioxide, lower income families have less money to spend of gasoline unlike richer families. The highest in come homes spent 3300 dollars on gas producing 12 metric tons while lower income families only produced 3.6 total. This statistic is also true as in 2009 the 10% of higher income families produced three times as much CO2 as the 10% lowest income families. This doesn't fully mean that higher income families contribute the most to global warming, even though the more financially stable produce more household carbon, lower income families invest and use up carbon services. 7% of lower income goes toward utilities contributing to the over all foot print by 42%, while 4% of richer families income go toward utilities, contributing to 42% of the carbon foot print. In concludes, the article published by The London School of Economics and Political Science, explains that higher income families are responsible for producing more Carbon admissions, but lower income families are more restricted to not be able to change.
https://www.lse.ac.uk/granthaminstitute … -8-months/

The connection between income and carbon emissions are very linked. according to iea.org the top 1% of the world are 1000 times the impact of lower class people. having a higher income usually makes your carbon footprint go exponentially higher. the top 10% of people were responsible for over half of all of the carbon emissions recorded last year. I think it can be caused because people with a higher income have more opportunity to have a larger carbon footprint because they can afford the amenities that create emissions https://www.iea.org/commentaries/the-wo … e-bottom-1

I agree with you, Carbon emissions are indeed connected with income,Like on scientific America, the top percent of people by income produce over 73 tons of carbon dioxide per person annually and in Asia and Europe the top earners exert 29-39 tons of carbon dioxide. Also the bottom 50 percent of North Americans emit 10 tons per person annually and In Europe and East Asia, the same category of earners release 5 tons and 3 tons, respectively. I think the wealthier they are the bigger there footprint will be because they spend more and travel more.

https://www.scientificamerican.com/arti … hy-people/

Many people are concerned about climate change, but it is unclear if the majority of people will be willing to give up small luxuries like driving in personal cars instead of using public transportation for the sake of the climate. In a study conducted across 17 advanced economies, a median of 34% will willing to make "a lot of changes" to their daily lives to fight climate change. There is also interesting disparity across the United States of who is willing to give up non crucial wants. 94% of US citizens who identified as part of the 'left' said they would be willing to make "a lot of/some" changes to their lifestyles, while only 45% of US citizens who identified as on the 'right' were willing to make these changes. However, many people are willing to make 'at least some' changes to their lifestyles, with a median of 80% across all those surveyed. 
https://www.pewresearch.org/global/2021 … -and-work/

There are so many things humans want, including me. I would like to go shopping, get a new phone, buy some makeup, maybe even a new blanket but really, I have no need for all these things, I have a phone, I have clothes, I have makeup, and I have tons of blankets, and really all these things are doing are using fossil fuels in factories for them to be mad. So in the end is it really worth it? I think the effect on our planet is much more important than all the things we want. So maybe next time, when you're shopping, stop and think for a second if it's a want or a need and how it just might affect the Earth.

Wasting money buying phones every year just to be trendy is awful. I think we should learn how to save the money we get from different sources because we are teenagers so we don't earn that money. It's hard not to go with trends as a teenager because if you don't go with them you'll be considered boring. The new generations should be taught how to manage money and how to be liked for their character, not for the things they have on them or what kind of phones they have.
The prices of brand new products are very high, that's why teenagers think that if you have one product that is very expensive they are cool and should stay around them. Even if it's not necessary to buy all those expensive things, people will buy them for approval from others.

Also many of these products consume many resources of the earth

I completely agree with all your words. Teenagers are wasting so much money on trending things like some types of clothes or some technology. We teenergers don't even earn that money but we are wasting our parents hours of works. Also, so much money is spent on the production of all these really unnecessary things, at the same time polluting the environment, and that money can be used for something much more necessary.

I agree, I think our society became to material these days, not only do teenager spend too much money on things that are not necessary in life, but they also don't realize how much work is needed to make one piece of clothing. The fact is that most of the clothes industries have big factories in countries that uses people which need money to feed their families and doesn't assure they are paid enough for their hard work. Also, the carbon pollution those big industries are causing is terrible. So as solution I would say that we need to buy more clothes in second hand shops or at least reduce the number of pieces of new clothing we are buying in a year.

(note: my username should be PrithikaChatterjee so please ignore whatever comes as my username!)

Wants and needs have always been more or less distinguishable from each other. Needs are something that are very necessary and should be included in our lives. This includes food, water, and shelter. Without food and water, we won't be able to survive with the lack of energy. Plus, even if we do have food and water, what will protect us from the forces of nature? That's why we need shelters.

On the other hand, wants are something that are evident in our lives, yet we don't need them as much as needs. Some may argue that the internet, for example, is something very necessary to be in our lives. However, if we are in a situation where we have to choose between food and our electronic devices, surely we will choose food. And this isn't something only I would do. If we were starving, we'd go for saving our lives first. We could get a new device later on, but if we lose our lives from starvation? Well, we'd never get them back.

It's important to be able to tell the differences between wants and needs, since this becomes a big part of our lives later on in the future. Making the right choices, using as little resources as we can to save them, all adds up to needs vs wants. In conclusion, we should all be aware and be able to tell the differences between needs and wants. Thanks for making it to the end!

I agree with you that needs are necessary in our life and we couldn't survive without them. You also provided a good example whether we would choose food over a new electronic device. I believe everyone would answer with food. People used to live without electronic devices and many other things we today find very normal and couldn't imagine our life without them. Those things are called wants. But I think everyone should have their wants and especially needs but just be rational with their wants because it affects the environment. I think it's okay for people to get something considered as wants but always be rational because of the lack of resources on the Earth.

Hi, my name is Jaden and I like to travel.

this is my carbon footprint

You:    Your region:
Home:    1,757 kgs    2,194 kgs
Food:    3,533 kgs    2,869 kgs
Purchases:    131 kgs    791 kgs
Transportation:    9,528 kgs    2,128 kgs

I usually travel 5 times a year, I try to save as many things as I can.

I think that everyone should use biodegradable things and reusable bags.
this way the earth can be saved easier.

By now you may know that the world is slowly deteriorating. Mother Earth may not be able to support us for longer.

This is my result

    You:    Your region:
Home:    537 kgs      2,194 kgs
Food:    2,443 kgs    2,869 kgs
Purchases: 125 kgs     791 kgs
Transportation:    48,471 kgs    2,128 kgs

Although I don't spend a lot on food and purchases. The kgs on my transport are horrible. It's way too high and I travel too much. although this is not up to me to decide, i still try my best to limit my spending. Although we want many things, we need to limit ourselves from things. By using biodegradable items and reusable bags, we can save the earth slowly. Start using solar-energy today and save the earth one by one.

I recommend
-use solar energy
-recycle
-use reusable stuff (bags, chairs, toothbrushes, etc...)
-use biodegradable products.

#biodegradation
#recycle
#reduce
#reuse

Having the latest technology is typically considered a want rather than a need. While technology can certainly make our lives easier and more efficient, many of the latest models are often designed with features that are not necessary for basic use. In other words, while it may be nice to have the latest smartphone or MP3 player, it is not essential for survival or meeting basic needs.

The frequency at which someone gets a new cell phone or MP3 player can vary depending on the individual. Some people may choose to upgrade their devices every year, while others may use their devices for several years before replacing them. It is important to consider whether a new model is truly necessary before making a purchase.

The use of smartphones is on the rise and the number of them sold continues to increase every year. People use smartphones for various reasons and many of these uses have a negative impact on people.
Firstly, smartphones can cause addiction in people. More than 90% of the population are using smartphones daily. Spending too much time on your cell phone becomes a big problem when you start  neglecting your work, hobbies, and relationships. Phone addiction may cause poor grades, anxiety, loss of sleep, and even loneliness or depression. (Robb, 2023) reports that “teens and tweens spend more than seven hours on their phones each day.”
Secondly, smartphones negatively impact people’s health: spending too much time looking at your phone may cause neck and brain problems, and disrupt sleep patterns. Smartphones can send harmful radiation to your brain due to the emission of blue light, so people may have headaches regularly. Research published in Cogent Psychology (Reno, 2021) shows that people who are constantly looking at their phones are likely to be depressed while people who are not scrolling on their phones are likely to be happier.
Thirdly, smartphones can decrease concentration levels. Scrolling through your phones or watching videos can affect our concentration levels. Smart phones distract teens and even adults from their own studies or work. Low concentration causes people to perform poorly on their academics because they overuse their phones or devices.  Students can easily be distracted by messages or notifications. Smart phones or any gadget can decrease our attention span according to (TechTarget, 2018) , “Using your phones in between important tasks may decrease your ability to focus.” This has shown us it is best to not scroll or look at your phone while driving, riding a bike, or even in class time.
Even though that having the latest technology is bad for your mental help it also technology have been very useful in the progress of modern society. They help spread information to people easily and have changed the way people think about the world. In many poor countries, they have helped in lifting people out of poverty by providing business opportunities to many people. Smartphones can be useful tools if they are used in the right way. The problem is not about the latest technology,but the behavior and habits of people when they use smartphones. People have to learn to use this very useful device in a way that they can put it to good use instead of turning it into a problem. Technology have negative impacts on both children and adults. Technology addiction, health issues, and concentration levels have caused a huge problem in the world.

I belive that spending money on expensive clothes is often unnecessary and wasteful. The fashion industry encourages us to constantly update our wardrobes with the latest trends, leading to overconsumption and environmental harm. In addition, the production of high-end fashion often involves unethical labor practices, including low wages and poor working conditions for workers in developing countries. Instead of investing in expensive clothes, we can prioritize sustainable and ethical consumption by choosing high-quality, durable clothing made from sustainable materials and produced under fair labor conditions. By consuming less and choosing products that are mindful of the environment and people, we can make a positive impact on the world around us.

In the last few years, the industry has grown rapidly and so has its impact on the environment. Manufacturers and sellers covertly create great pressure on human society, which therefore has an increasing desire to buy things, especially among uninformed individuals or groups of people. I don't think that just buying expensive clothes is a big problem. Fast fashion makes even bigger problems, it's an industry that has one of the biggest impacts on the environment. Huge quantities of poor-quality clothes are produced which wear out quickly. We should pay more attention to second-hand stores. Recycling old clothes would be very useful, especially if these clothes were sold more often in big stores.

I find your post relatively relateable. However, the companies that produce expensive clothing have thousands of workers such as designers, managers and many others not including the production workers that are undeniably underpaid. If everyone stopped buying their type of products, it could lead to financial crisis and millions of people losing their job. Therefore, the companies have to make some type of profit to be able to pay the workers (some more than others) and to make the company bigger, better, more recognisable, wealthier etc. That is the reason clothes are way more expensive than the materials they are produced of. Hopefully the companies realise the polution in the world and dicide to make a change in the choice of materials, production... Of course I agree that the payment should be somewhat similar for all workers of the fashion industry.

Many people enjoy spending money on more luxurious items such as clothing. I believe these people help our economy by spending money on these "over-priced" items.

I completely agree as expensive clothes produce a lot of carbon emission from transportation. In addition, they are produced in factories and the companies exploit child labor. Some clothes are not very expensive but they don't produce a lot of carbon emission.

If someone from the 18th century saw what technology we use in daily life, they would be absolutely baffled. They would wonder why we stare at portals to another world all the time, have music played privately in the middle of the street straight into our ears and why we amuse ourselves more indoors than outdoors. This goes to show just how accustomed much of the world is to being constantly surrounded by technology when in all truth, we only need a few pieces of modern technology. We do not need a direct link to the internet, music, movies, calculators and more in our pockets; we DO need some massive servers that contain secret government info and research because otherwise the info would be recorded by hand, stored by hand and easily stolen. Finally, we really don't need video games; sorry to all gamers, but we really don't. Head outside, and smell the fresh smell of grass or something; it's unhealthy for our bodies and mind to sit inside, staring mesmerized at a screen for hours at a time. To conclude, while a lot of technology is EXTREMELY important for the function of a country as a whole, much of the tech we see day-to-day is unnecessary, distracting and damaging.

I agree with you.

There is a very big difference between wants and needs. This can be used in various situations. For example, we need food to survive, but sometimes we want sugar food or ice cream that is not mandatory for us to survive, but something to fulfill our wants. This can also be with clothes. We need to wear clothes, but we want the new dress that is now trending even though we have 4 other dresses that are nice and in perfect condition. There are things in life we need to survive and live, and then there are just things we want to have for the sake of our own wants.

My carbon footprint was worth 4,246 kgs, below the average of 4,570 kgs, mostly because i really don t use public transportation at all. I live in a small town and I decided that it is useless to use the car or the bus to transport myself from one point of the city to another. Every time you go for a drive, pollution is emitted directly into the air which causes significant risks for your health, especially for people who live near busy roads, and for the environment. You see it every time that smoke billows from your car's exhaust pipe, and from all the different forms of transportation we rely on to get around and to move goods around the planet — vehicles are a major contributor to air pollution. Cars emit carbon monoxide when fuel is burned. Breathing air with a high concentration of CO affects critical organs like your heart and brain. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, as much as 95 percent of all CO emissions in cities may come from motor vehicle exhaust. Do we really need so many cars in our contry? can't we find a healthier alternative to move?

In my opinion, having the latest technology is not a must. Of course, having a phone is a necessity, but buying the latest version every year costs money, but it also affects the environment: when a phone is manufactured, it contributes to carbon emissions into the atmosphere.
It's difficult to realize if when we want to buy a new phone is a want or a need, that's why I consider that we should think twice before whether we really need a new phone or if we just want to be trendy.

For many people in the world, food waste has become a habit: buying  more food than needed, taking bigger portions than we can eat, these are habits that damage our resources and our enviroment. When we waste food, we waste  effort  and  precious resources that go into producing it, therefore, the gas emission increases and contributes to climate change.
    In fact, tonnes of edible food are wasted worldwide, everyday.
    I think there are things we can do to improve our relationship with food such as:
adopting a healthier lifestyle  and buying  only what you need.
     In the end, if we make an effort together we will overcome any obstacle that comes our way!

My carbon footprint was worth 4,198 kgs, below the average of 4,570 kgs, mostly reduced to excessive shopping, food and activities at home, but I won in the transport chapter, I don't use the car, the bus, the train or the plane to go to school or around town every day. The car is a necessity and we Romanians depend on the car a lot, but do you think that if we gave up the car and walked, as I do, do you think we would have a smaller carbon footprint? ... I say yes! From certain scientific resources, it was found that gasoline or diesel cars eliminate a lot of CO2 and many other substances, which is very harmful for the surrounding air.These cars produce 95g/km CO2. It is normal this thing? Personally, I would propose a limited time for driving or only for emergencies, because in these conditions our life will be more and more difficult! And now my question is the car is a need or a necessity?

I often make the mistake to buy something which I just wanted and after it i don't know what to do with that thing.In my opinion,most of the people make same mistake.But the question is how this affects the environment?Well,the fact that we use to buy everything,even if we neet it or not,encourages the producers to make more products and also more resources of the earth will be consumed in excess.For example,do you know that for one T-shirt 2706 liters of water will be consumed?In my point of view,that's horrible!

Your points are valid, and many people of all ages can relate to them. In the same time, the textile industry is an important source of plastic leakage into the environment, which directly affects millions of human's livelihoods and the ecosystems in a tremendous way. That's why we must take careful decisions and not go on impulsive shopping sprees.

Most of the time, people fail to make the difference between desire and need...I admit that sometimes it's quite difficult for me to realize if I really need a certain thing, or if it's just a fad. The more things we buy or keep that we don't really need, the more we burden our planet. Therefore, I think we should think twice or thrice before buying something, whether it is a necessity or a fad.

“Want or need?” Anytime I go clothing shopping, whether online or in person, that question crosses my mind. As a teenager, it’s hard not to follow what’s trending… and trust me trends come and go very quickly. This brings up the topic of fast fashion, which is just what it sounds like. Often many teens find themselves buying from a fast fashion business just due to the fact of how cheap it is. Although, if your concerns when it comes to clothing shopping relate to price, used clothing is a great alternative. Used clothing is not only cheap, but very sustainable. Although at the time you may really want something, you may only wear it one time and then toss it out and move on to the next trend.

I completely agree with your statement. As teenagers we can see things while shopping, looking online, from commercials, etc. We have to  find the line between buying something because we want it, because it looks cool, or it’s super fun. We can ask ourselves “do I need this?”, because we could reduce emissions by not spending money on clothes or electronics that we don’t need.

I wholeheartedly agree. The media has made us believe that the newest and most expensive clothes are the most fashionable and “coolest”. We should begin to ask ourselves when we make purchases wether our not you in five years would think that this purchase is necessary, or even if you will still have it. By buying timeless pieces of clothing we can cut down on our carbon footprint and our wallets.

i 100% agree because we young adult see stuff on social media that is trending so now we have to get it and when the trend dies you left with something that was completely useless.

As a thriving society, we can't be satisfied with just the bare minimum. Whether we talk about relationships, our place in society, or material things. In order to get our wishes fulfilled, we have to make some sacrifices. One of them is the well-being of our environment. I don't really think we can fix the damage we did to our planet, but we can at least prevent it from getting worse.

Wasting money buying phones every year just to be trendy is awful. I think we should learn how to save the money we get from different sources because we are teenagers so we don't earn that money. It's hard not to go with trends as a teenager because if you don't go with them you'll be considered boring. The new generations should be taught how to manage money and how to be liked for their character, not for the things they have on them or what kind of phones they have.
The prices of brand new products are very high, that's why teenagers think that if you have one product that is very expensive you are cool and should stay around you. Even if it's not necessary to buy all those expensive things, people will buy them for approval from others.

there are a lot of things we don't need that feel like a necessity after we see them again and again in trends on social media. trends like "Tiktok made me buy it" and "affordable items on amazon you NEED", premote cheaply made, low quality items that underpaid workers slaved over just for you to use it once and forget about it, or decide you don't like it but be to lazy to send it back. there are a lot of things that have been built into our society that are really useless. and of course its ok to want things. we just cant let it consume our whole lives while we hop on trends until there gone and then throw the items out to make space for whatever new thing will come and go.

I totally agree with what you are saying, with social media paying influencers to promote cheap fashion or low quality items, people get influenced to want to buy them. Usually these items are made from fast fashion industry’s as well. For example the fashion website many buy from, Shein, is a fast fashion clothing online store that uses child labor and sweatshop factory’s to make there clothes. Usually these clothes also end up being unsuitable or break easily so the people send them back, and when they are sent back broken and battered the company throws the things away making this never ending cycle keep hurting the climate. From a analysis by Business Insider fast fashion industry’s are responsible for almost 10% of the worlds total carbon emissions. These industry’s end up drying water sources for people and animals, They also pollute many rivers and lakes. And circling back to how they throw the unwanted items away, almost 85% of the products made are sent to dumps almost a week later. So again in this I totally agree with your statement about how these things are wants that end up hurting our world, so next time someone decides to buy from fast fashion they should think twice.

It is a great point you(liza) made about how different aspects of the internet promote cheep, poor quality consumer goods. The problem isn’t only that they are promoted, but the fact that these type of items are made in the fist place! Large companies implement planned obsolescence to purposely create products that will break, forcing consumers to buy a new thing, and putting exorbitant amounts of waste into the consumer cycle. This type of explotion needs to stop, and I agree that outside of creating laws that prevent companies from doing this, the best way to make change is to stop buying these products.

I think it’s interesting how people talk about these unnecessary purchases with excuses like “TikTok made me buy it,” like they were forced into buying it and they had no other choice. I think sometimes they know it was just some silly thing they bought, don’t really need, and will forget about quickly, but saying that TikTok made them buy it puts the blame partially on the viewers and relieves the influencer some guilt. I wish they could just own up to the fact that they bought it and maybe they shouldn’t have.
I agree with Raya, it would be ideal if this was stopped at the beginning, before anyone anywhere even had a chance to buy it. We can help prevent these products from being exchanged by refusing to buy them or at least thinking hard: is it a want or a need?

The idea of thinking "Wants or Needs" is really interesting and could actually helps us to make less compulsive purchases. I should probably talk about this with my mom. Sometimes we bought things that are "useless" according to our lifestyle. And it's such a problem since we use it like just once or twice and then, put in drawers, etc. We should think twice before buying things, we should ask ourself if it's a need or just something I want( knowing that it could just be for ostentatious purposes)

Is it always essential as humans to have the newest phone, newest laptop, newest AirPods? Personally, I do not feel that it is. It is harmful to the environment, wasteful, and purely unnecessary. When most popular electronics are created, they are built to contain liquid crystal display panels. Each time those are created, greenhouse gasses are emitted, directly harming the earth. Building a new smartphone represents 85%-95% of its total carbon emissions for 2 years. Which in simple terms, means that buying one new phone takes as much energy as operating and recharging the device for a decade. Keeping this in mind, I do not buy new devices unless I feel that mine is in such critical condition that it is necessary to make that purchase. It would be pointless and wasteful to purchase a new device, just for the sake of having the newest electronic.

I agree, when people think of the negative effects of technology they usually think of the impact they have on our minds—which is a whole new problem—ignoring the impact it has on our planet as a whole. Not only does the overflow of tech crowd our minds but it crowds our atmosphere as well. It’s not bad to own a phone, the problem begins when it’s phone after phone with no intent to keep the current after a new model is released. We might even be better off going back to flip phones or more environmentally friendly alternatives.

I completely agree with what you’re saying and agree that buying new technology and unnecessary purchases are not needed until your material is sufficiently suffering in the realm where they are not able to function properly. Looking at a CNN research article, it says that the American smartphone user keeps their phone for an average of 22.7 months. Knowing from experience there are some people that do have the money to afford buying a new iPhone every new release. This is completely unnecessary because unless the phone is in critical condition it still functions as any other would. This process is completely wasteful as you stated because of the fact that the phone you replaced would just end up in a landfill. This process solely to have the newest iPhone and technologies? Is it really necessary?

I completely agree. I think that people confuse the difference between wants and needs. For example lots of people are always quick to go get the newest iPhones even if theirs is only a few years old. I think there is no need to get a new phone, iPad, or computer unless the old one is broken or unable to be able to be used. I also agree with Luciana when she says that people think of the impact on our minds and not necessarily the impact on our planet. There’s also the fact that when someone gets a new phone and if they don’t dispose of it correctly all the pieces that go into making our phones end up in landfills and that isn’t good for the environment either. I never buy new phones I always take my siblings or parents old ones so that they aren’t just getting rid of a perfectly good phone.

Buying new devices is one of my weaknesses in my carbon footprint. I buy new and not refurbished devises, and which I do not need new fancy devices I still get them. One of the things I believe I could do to reduce my footprint in this subject is use my phone less. My screen time is extremely high and it most likely uses a lot of data.

I completely agree with all of this. Anytime I have a small crack on my phone or if I loose my headphones I immediately ask my parents if I can buy a new pair even if my device is in good condition. I believe that there is a serious stigma that comes around buying the latest most expensive item. When you finally get that new item you feel so cool for about a year until the next new things comes out and gather once very cool item is worth nothing. Apple and Samsung in particular are always coming out with new products that are very appealing to their consumers. But is there really anything better about the phone or tablet that came out a year later than the one before that? These companies set a trap for many teenagers and adults and it’s our job to realize that constantly buying new products is a waste of resources and is very bad for the environment. Although it will be hard I plan to use my devices until they quite literally break in half.

I agree with most of the original statement. I would like to say though from my personal experience I can be the person that sometimes buys a phone every year. I do realize the effect that can make, that is the reason I use Apple products. Apple’s trade in program is a wonderful initiative to save the environment while saving you a buck too. The trade in program allows you to trade in your iPhone of any model or even any device and it will be recycled and reused. This will also get you a discount on the device your trading in for. I have a wonderful experience with this program I can say nothing but good things about it.

I don’t think that the real / main issue is about the purchase of a new laptop or others devices. For me, I think that it is about how we use it. For example, if you use your new device just to watch Netflix, or use social media… you know you’re doing wrong - for environment but also for your lifestyle habits.
Every tools can be good for environment, but it depends on how we use it.

In the past, I never thought about how purchasing brand new clothes could take an negative impact more than just my money, now I want more clothes than ever, but I make sure it is only affecting my spendings account. The answer is buying used clothes. Used clothes are a great way to save money and save our earth. Not only are they significantly cheaper and more eco friendly, but I think they also look better. There are also many easy places to buy them. You can get them off of goodwill, eBay, family, thrifting and more. You can help save the Earth while saving money and having better clothes so why wouldn’t you get things used?

Hey, I agree with your points. I never realized how bad buying new clothes in store are, so I want to start buying used clothes. Used clothes are a wonderful alternative to recycle old clothes that will benefit our planet. I mean not only is it saving the planet, but it is a cool concept how they are more original clothes from different decades. If you wanted to buy a specific pair of shoes or clothes there are online thrifting stores where you can search for specific things. Not only is it an effective way of getting new clothes, but it is a simple way to sell your old clothes and get money for it. Overall this is an idea that you must look further into.

Hey, I agree too with both of your opinions.  Regarding compulsive buyers there are other alternatives to manage our need to buy.  Indeed, we can satisfy our need for shopping by creating our own clothes using sewing!  A very good alternative that will allow you both to stand out from others but also to reduce consumption in industries like Zara that must be boycotted: we must support the planet but also human rights (think of the Uyghurs).

Baseball is my passion and I have been playing it since I was four. In the recent years I have dedicated much more time to baseball and now I play it year round. With the competition constantly getting harder I always want new baseball gear to make sure I can keep up with others. Although sometimes I do really need new gear, generally it is in good condition and I could still use it for years to come. Even if my gear is completely fine I would still spend thousands of dollars on new bats,gloves,pants,helmets and balls. As I have matured more I realize that spending thousands of dollars every year on new gear isn’t sustainable for my wallet or the environment.  Unless I need new gear I will from here on out be using my gear until it isn’t usable. Instead of buying of the best gear I will get used or less expensive gear. By doing this it will save money and reduce my carbon footprint.

I play baseball too and wrote a passage just like this. I feel like a lot of the time you’re buying so much gear, not just because it supposedly will make you better, but it’s also just the “cool” thing to do. Having the newest design of bat, or the 350 dollar glove. I have found too, that I am constantly buying new things. While baseball is an expensive sport, where you often need new gear, there are definitely ways to work around it in more sustainable ways.

I am also a baseball player and I could not agree more with both of these. I’ve just gotten more into baseball in the recent years and I’ve found myself more recently spending way to much on newer bats, gloves, glasses, etc. and honestly when I’m just browsing around in stores I see something that looks as Liam said “cool” and new and feel like I need to get it to get my best possible baseball experience. Obviously sports are expensive and at some point in time you eventually will need new things, I totally agree that we should use things to their maximum, as they were made for.

Hey guys! Although I do not play baseball, I as well am passionate about sports. For me, my sport is hockey. Even though it is different sports with different equipment, the prices still add up. What Liam was saying about how new models for gear and sticks come out every year and they advertise it to make you believe you will perform better with the newest equipment. I think not only the cost of gear tearing a big hole in the environment and your wallet, but additionally how bad it is for the environment transporting to games or practices. Although for club sports it can be difficult getting around the negative impacts transportation has for out environment, there are ways to get around buying new gear. For example I get some of my hockey gear from my brothers old equipment. You can also reach out to family friends or teamates that play the same sports as you. This can be a good solution to bring new life to somebody’s old gear.

I completely agree with you Brian! Even though I do not play baseball, I ski almost everyday in the winter. In the past year I have been purchasing way too much ski gear. Just this winter I have gotten two new pairs of snow pants that I really did not need. Next year I am going to try to cut down on purchases and reuse almost all of my gear from this year. Like baseball, skiing is also extremely expensive. Not only would it be better for the environment, but you would also save tons of money.

I completely agree, I would buy new bats, gloves, and many other things for baseball every year, even when I had perfectly good ones.  I stopped buying new gear as often pretty early on.  I wish I could say I made this decision because I knew was helping the environment, but the real reason was I liked to take my older brothers bats.  Only a few years ago did I realize the effect it had.  I know donate my old gear to a place that’s sends to the Dominican Republic.  I not only help m wallet and the eenviorment, but I also get to help replace milk cartons with baseball gloves.

I agree, although I play hockey and not baseball there is still many instances in which I purchase new gear when it is not necessary. It not only has a large effect on the environment, but your bank account as well. Whenever possible I try to buy used gear and give old gear to someone who needs it. It is not only good for the environment but it also is often at a reduced cost. It is important to realize that expensive purchases like sports equipment can have a big effect on the environment. When you play a sport which driving is absolutely required, cutting down on your carbon footprint in any way you can is especially important.

Since the fashion industry is hugely detrimental to the planet, how do we change the entire culture? Is it possible to get people to stop buying cheap clothes?
At scale, if EVERYONE were to buy the majority of their clothes used, would the brands adapt to more durable, less trendy clothing? When will the environmental need outweigh people’s want for cheap new clothes?
Social Justice - where do we draw the line about working conditions, and what percent of people are aware of what kind of brand they are supporting when they buy clothes? Would ratings be viable (like labels on food) something saying a brand’s sustainability rating?

I agree 100%! Durable clothing may be more expensive but you save in the long term in two ways; They will last longer so you won’t have to buy more clothes that will break easily and second it means less waste which save the planet. That is why I try to buy from brands such as Patagonia.  Patagonia is a B corp. company. Also almost all of there clothes are made of recycled materials and if they break you can send them back or bring them into a Patagonia store and they will fix them. They also have a line called worn wear. I have a worn wear shirt it is super cool it is made of multiple shirts sewn together. Up until recently they gave 1% of their profits to stopping climate change. The founder recently gave 98% of the stock to a non profit group.

All in all I think that more people should buy from company’s like Patagonia. They may cost more but you will save in the long term.

I agree that fast fashion is terrible for the planter overall. Although there are some benefits to it, like people who can’t afford as nice clothes it makes more sense for them and may be there best option. But, thrifting and buying second hand clothing is also very affordable (generally) and is very good for the environment, because you are getting maximum use out of a piece of clothing.

The push to buy the latest gear is a familiar feeling to most athletes. When we examine the root of this pressure, it spurs from the very companies manufacturing this equipment. This is unsurprising as their very business model is based off of athletes buying new gear from them. Without consistent business, these companies would go out of business which is why many of them sponsor elite athletes to advertise their products in the hopes of influencing potential buyers. Often, newer products give a false boost of confidence. While the product may not actually improve an athletes performance, the mentality it gives them may. In our society, expensive and new gear is often associated with being better at a sport. This is subliminally messaged to younger generations through professional athletes social media, ads, and even viewing a professional sport. When you watch a pro athlete compete, they wear the newest, most expensive gear bearing the logo of their sponsor. When you watch someone excel at a sport wearing this gear, your brain associates their success with the product which improves the likelihood of you purchasing that product. Sports companies are very familiar with this concept, which is why we as consumers can work to disrupt this cycle. When you go to purchase new sports gear, ask yourself if you truly need this equipment or merely wish to own it?

Almost everybody doesn’t need to upgrade their phone every year. Sure, some people who review devices as their job shouldn’t suddenly stop reviewing, but for most people, it’s a good idea to just keep your current phone until it’s battery is significantly degraded, or it’s broken/4-5+ years old. Less overall devices will need to be made and less minerals will need to be mined if more people just keep their phones for longer and maybe replace the battery instead of buying a new phone.

I have seen a certain person smash their phones for Fun. Instead of wasting and being careless about their devices people should always be giving back. Because, constantly keeping the need for phones in demand and having so many produced just to be wasted by people replacing them unnecessarily is just contributing to the problem.

I agree with both of these ideas, and this could go for many things too like iPads, tablets, computers, monitors and more. I think that if people feel the need to change or get a new hone then they could start to think about buying used (but still completely working) phones. Phones like the ones that people trade in when they feel the need to get the newest one even if they dont need it. This could solve the feeling that people have of wanting a newer or just different phone but they still would be using one that has been re purposed.

Hey guys, I agree with your thoughts on phones and I wish there was a better solution. I don't think that there is a need to get the newest and best devices every year when they come out. Companies make you think that the newest model will change your life and that it is significantly better than the model of phone you currently have. This can pressure people to buy the newest thing to fit in or be cool, which is simply just not true. While the new devices have slightly better camera quality and some interesting new features, it is not always necessary to have. To add on to what was said about not needing the latest phone, when people do get new devices, what are they doing with the old ones? I know in my family we have a couple of old devices that are just laying around, not being used. I know that this is not beneficial to anyone and I wish that there were more well known ways to turn these in to give them another life. Instead of just having old phones, ipads, and laptops laying around, give it to someone who actually needs it.

I often get new gear for sports, and new clothing like jerseys and such because it can help my game but it is also fun. I never really think about how much I am actually buying. Some of these things I actually need, like for baseball I can’t really play without a bat, but do I really need 2 bats, glove oil, 2 pairs of batting gloves, 2 pairs of pants, probably not. A large part of baseball is what you wear, like cool sunglasses, and eye black, but you don’t always need the excessive full face of eye black, although it is pretty cool.  I am going to try to reuse what I have for as long as I can, and maybe get used gear from other people. While some new gear is necessary, I will definitely try and take a new perspective and be more aware of what I am buying and how much I am buying.

I just responded to a discussion just like this, and I couldn’t agree more, I’ve noticed a new store where I live that sells old sporting equipment for better prices, and its getting reused, I am sure there are many types of these stores around the globe. In some ways it’s hard to play on teams with only one pair of pants or things like that since you are usually forced to buy a uniform for said team, I am not saying I agree with this system and maybe that is another way we can help.

I’ve been playing lacrosse since 2nd grade, but i starting consistently playing in 7th grade. Lacrosse is a really fun sport for me and it’s a good thing to look forward too In the cold season. Lacrosse is a very expensive sport, and a lot of gear is needed. Every year I always break something I have and need to get new stuff. I think that a smart approach for the next time I get gear would be to get it slightly used to help reuse things, when I’ll Probably end up breaking them inevitably. I will especially use this once I get to old for my parents to have to keep buying my equipment, so I can save money

Hey Liam, I agree with your thoughts about wanting to cut down on gear. Personally, I don't play lacrosse, but I have similar feelings about the gear that I play in for hockey. I have played hockey ever since I can remember and it is a big commitment in terms of cost to play, and the gear it takes. Over the years I have tried to find the best gear I can used, but sometimes that is just not an option. For specific equipment that I need to buy new I try to use it until it can't be used anymore, this is unfortunate because then people cannot use my gear after me. I wish that that there was an alternative to make more eco friendly gear that would be able to decompose or be recycled once its life is up. I think that while using used gear is definitely a good solution to bring new life to somebody's old gear, I wish that there was a solution after the gear has been reused. With the phrase reduce, reuse, recycle, gear is missing the recycle component.

in my opinion having the latest phone or having the latest car it's very useles if the one you have still work,because of two reason,the fist one is a waste of money,the second reason,increases the garbage in turn increase the pollution,so we need to stop this.

I almost completely agree with your statement focused on phones; one doesn’t need to get a new phone every time a new one comes out, but cars deteriorate much faster than a mobile phone, and are much more beneficial to a person. This doesn’t mean that you should buy a new car every time you desire one, but keeping your car up to date is very important.

Cars only deteriorate if you don’t take good care of them. Both of my parents cars are from the early 2000s, and mine is from 1990. While they do have some issues that need occasional maintenance, for the most part they work just fine. It’s true that older cars don’t get very good fuel efficiency, but some of this is offset by keeping all of the materials from an old car out of a landfill, and not consuming new products. The same is true for things like home appliances, technology and other resorces in our daily life. As the saying (almost) goes: “If it’s not broken, don’t buy a new one”!

Do you need new clothes

Do you need new clothes or just want them, their is big difference between wants and needs. People tend to buy clothes that they wear only a few times because they buy it out of a want for the piece of clothing so bad so it wastes away in a closet and you might end up throwing it away instead of donating it. You should always donate you clothes unless they are unwearable and torn up, donating clothes helps other find clothes and it keeps clothes in the world until they are unusable. Don’t throw away clothes after a few uses because its a waste and it terrible for the environment and helps no one.

We often by fins fairly years, just cause we want it in the moment only to throw it away later when it’s still use left in it.

For me, I am guilty of buying so many things that I don’t even use. Looking in my closet, there are so many clothes I don’t wear! For lowering CO2 emissions, we need to focus on not buying things because we simply want them, rather because there are necessary. Consumption has a massive effect on CO2 emission because almost every product links back to a mass producing factory. For me, I am constantly trying to reuse and recicle to keep my emissions low. Along with that, buying locally is also a good thing. And instead of throwing away all my unused clothes, I am donating them to thrift stores and children’s homes so they can be reused.

As much as clothes can be a required need, they can also turn into a want when you already have clothes available to wear and you just choose to spend your money on new brands or what's been trending lately. You should be satisfied with what you already have because buying more just becomes a process of wasting money on clothes that you will most likely wear once and then leave to rot in your closets. At a point where you have too many clothes that haven't been worn more than once stored in your wardrobe, it becomes more of a want than a need. Wasting money on unnecessary wants affects the amount of carbon footprint a person has, which could increase the amount of greenhouse gases in the environment, leading to pollution in the ecosystem. So maybe instead of wasting money on things you already have available, you could instead focus on saving up money for other stuff that you actually need.

I heavily agree and love the way you’ve worded your statement. With the rise of temporary micro trends, having new, more "fashionable' clothes can become more of a want. Most of these clothes bought are made from companies that use sweatshops or factories (burning petrochemicals, making greenhouse gasses) to produce their low quality items. Some or most of the percentages of clothes today is made from polyester, a plastic fiber. And if not recycled to make something new, which still burns fossil fuels, more plastic goes to waste. Also with the concern about fashion impacting your wallet, a rule I've lived by is that the amount of dollars something is should be equal to the amount of times you wear it. Clothing prices can be high nowadays so visiting a thrift store or investing in one good quality, long lasting item that you enjoy is better than multiple cheap products that follow a trend.

I completely agree with both of your statements. Fast fashion is a huge problem for our environment and online companies like Shein and Romwe are especially bad. Their clothes are very poor quality and are usually made from materials like polyester and nylon which don't decay which means that they will spend a lot more time in the landfill. The manufacturing of these cheap clothes is responsible for 10% of the worlds carbon emissions. Producing them in factories, the transportation and delivery all emit extreme amounts of carbon. The making of clothes also requires a lot of water. Just a single shirt needs as much as 2,720 litres of water, and around 3,781 litres for a pair of jeans. Shopping at a thrift store instead of online is an affordable and sustainable option to find clothes that may last a couple more years.

I agree! One way of being more sustainable with clothes is buying used clothes. Such as thrifting or hand me downs. I understand that some people want new ¨trendy¨ clothes but, You dont have to completly cut it out but a bit!

I fully agree. Fast fashion and quick manufacturing of clothes is a huge contributor of co2 emissions around the world. I really believe that shopping locally for clothes and buying used ones can be a great help to stopping climate change. It can also still be trendy, thrifting is huge in the United States, finding older and vintage clothing is helpful for the environment and is way more fashionable than it used to be. The transportation of clothing is also impactful, that’s why shopping close to you instead of making a trucker drive from florida to maine is critical to release less carbon dioxide.

I agree with all of these points, and if someone is wanting to be ‘trendy’ then you can always go to a thrift store and alter the clothes to fit in more. Thrifting is a much more sustainable way to shop, but if you must buy from fast fashion brands or want something new, consider instead of throwing out your old clothes that you dont want/dont fit, try donating your old clothes to a thrift store or selling them on one of the apps like poshmark which would be sustainable and make you some money.

I completely agree with what you said. With so many forms of social media, people want to fit in and be “cool.” But our climate suffers from that. For example, some influencers on YouTube review “most seen clothes on TikTok” etc. up to millions of people can watch that one video and be affected by it. They could see something they like that comes from Fashion Nova, Shein, etc, which are all fast fashion stores. Stores that I mentioned above make poor quality clothes and use materials that don’t decay. They just end up spending a lot of time in the landfills. Producing the clothing puts greenhouses gasses into our environment which warms up the planet. While fast fashion stores are relatively cheap, they are responsible for 10% of the worlds commissions. There are some alternatives to not buying fast fashion or new trends. For example, you can go to the thrift store and find some amazing pieces of clothing and even “trendy” ones. You might even develop a new style that you like to wear. Another solution is getting hand me downs from friends and family. If you don’t like the hand me downs, you could customize the clothing pieces by sewing or ironing on patches etc. You can make the clothing price your own which is much better than buy a pre-customized piece of fast fashion.

I totally agree. As a teenager I have experienced this a lot, watching my peers, and I am definitely guilty as well. I think that fast fashion especially is something we need to improve on. It is a huge contributor of CO2 emissions, and if we either stick with what we have, or begin to only thrift clothes, it can be very beneficial for our environment. Another thing to consider is the packaging used in many fast fashion brands. Lots of fast fashion companies use plastic bags, individually packaging everything. This is definitely another big contributor as not everyone is in the habit of recycling, and it would be much better if we used more decomposable packaging. I think many of us could also most definitely be more grateful with what we have, rather than constantly buying more clothes that we don’t need. There are more people who could use those clothes, and the money could be better spend on someone who needs it more.

This is a very interesting and attention-grabbing point. In our current society, keeping up with trends, makes you “popular” and “cool.” This is a societal norm we need to eliminate as a whole. The constant purchasing of brand new clothing items and technological devices has a significant impact on the carbon emissions in our community. The fashion industry is responsible for approximately 10% of the globes annual carbon emissions. When people buy garments and only wear them for a short amount of time before they aren’t “in trend” anymore, these garments end up in landfills. There’s also more to this point, as fashion industries demand is becoming higher and higher, and in order to supply people with the production of materials they desire, carbon emissions increase. What we need to do is come together, and eliminate that desire globally to always need the brand new versions, and be on top of the trends, as this is impacting carbon emissions more than anyone realizes. Rather then feeling the constant need to purchase new things, we should savor items and only buy what we TRULY need. It’s important to take into consideration the environmental impact our choices have, and this is a great example of, how we can be so blindsided to the impacts of our choices.

I agree 100%.  People send way to much time and money to buy whatever the newest things are.  Lots of people see a photo or video of a famous person wearing new clothes and they will immediately order what they see without even thinking about the effect they have on the earth.  The fashion industry is designed to make costumers buy what every is newest, similar o Apple customers buying the newest phone.  People think that they need it but they truly just want it.  One thing that you can to to lower your emission is to shop at thrift stores or recycle and donate your old clothes rather then throw them away.  We should keep what we have for longer than what we currently do and only buy new clothes wen we truly need to.

I agree that when you buy clothes your motive should be mainly that you need them, not just because you wan’t them. If you want to get new clothes and get rid of your old clothes, there are many ways of giving your old clothes away instead of just throwing them away. You can give them to someone you know, sell them online, give them to a consignment store, or donate them to somewhere like Goodwill. I usually buy my clothing at secondhand stores and I always have to love whatever I want to buy, or I won’t get it. This is a very important rule to have when you are shopping, especially with fast fashion and short lived trends.

Exactly, not only this but there are many ways to get clothing you “need” other than buying it new off a website/in store. Thriving is a great alternate way to find clothing, you might even find some other really cool things. Hand-me-downs are also great. My friends older sister gives her old clothes to my friend and I to go through, and find anything we want. If you ever have clothing you don’t want anymore, don’t just throw it away, donate to local thrift stores, Goodwills, shelters, and ask your friends/family if there’s anything that they want. By buying from certain online stores (Zara, SHEIN, Romwe, H&M, etc), you are not only bring up a carbon impact, but giving money to these companies to continue there horrible environmentally unfriendly businesses. By doing research before buying from a website, find out their impact on the environment, boycotting these companies can help cut their environment impact off. Not only this, but next time you see clothing you “need”, think to yourself, am I really gonna wear this more then once?

I definitely agree with all of these points. Fast fashion is a horrible trend our world needs to put an end to. As vintage clothes are becoming more popular I have found many people find it fun to shop at thrift stores, and it’s definitely a better option. Fashion isn’t always a need but a want. Many people are drawn to new trends and things that would make us appear popular, but I don't think being popular should cost us our world and contribute to horrible working conditions in manufacturing factories. Thrift shopping, shopping locally, or from small businesses is a much better alternative to buying fast fashion. So instead of throwing away your old clothes, and immediately going to buy new ones, think about donating and buying from a second hand store.

I fully agree with the points everyone made in this discussion, with the advent of social media and quicker communication, there have arose things called “micro-trends”. With these micro trends come an increase in the desire to look a certain way which is where fast fashion companies originated from. Due to the fact that people only want to follow these trends for a short period of time, it becomes ideal that companies would be selling clothing that fits the aesthetic they want to achieve and for a low price. The issue is that this low price and quick production time is only because the companies which produce such clothing take advantage of certain countries loose laws on production and worker safety in order to exploit garment workers. This leads to a production process that not only adversely affects the environment, but also the people manufacturing the clothing. After all of the production is done, a significant amount of carbon is expended by transportation all for someone to wear the garment for a few weeks and then throw it away. This cycle of production and consumption continues and people continue to support industries which exploit people and hurt the environment. If you would like to help decrease your impact in relation to clothing, shopping at sustainable stores and second hand stores will ensure that clothing is getting used to its full extent before eventually being recycled or thrown out. You could also avoid fast fashion companies such as: ZARA, Shein. ROMWE, H&M, Gap, Old Navy etc…

I fully agree with the points everyone made in this discussion, with the advent of social media and quicker communication, there have arose things called “micro-trends”. With these micro trends come an increase in the desire to look a certain way which is where fast fashion companies originated from. Due to the fact that people only want to follow these trends for a short period of time, it becomes ideal that companies would be selling clothing that fits the aesthetic they want to achieve and for a low price. The issue is that this low price and quick production time is only because the companies which produce such clothing take advantage of certain countries loose laws on production and worker safety in order to exploit garment workers. This leads to a production process that not only adversely affects the environment, but also the people manufacturing the clothing. After all of the production is done, a significant amount of carbon is expended by transportation all for someone to wear the garment for a few weeks and then throw it away. This cycle of production and consumption continues and people continue to support industries which exploit people and hurt the environment. If you would like to help decrease your impact in relation to clothing, shopping at sustainable stores and second hand stores will ensure that clothing is getting used to its full extent before eventually being recycled or thrown out. You could also avoid fast fashion companies such as: ZARA, Shein. ROMWE, H&M, Gap, Old Navy etc…

I entirely agree with the statements made in this conversation. Speaking as a high school student in an environment where I am surrounded by the constantly changing and developing trends in fashion, it is difficult to avoid following the aforementioned trends and purchasing new clothing regularly. I am definitely guilty of unnecessary consumerism, and this an issue that I am trying to combat myself. One solution, or rather, a better way of doing things, that I try to utilize is buying second hand clothing. This is more affordable and climate efficient method for purchasing clothing and other items. Overall, we need to be more mindful of the way in which we consume.

I 100% agree, and feel that people today have come to this point of wasting money online shopping, for clothing they truly don’t need, and will only wear a few times. I heard somewhere that on average, people only wear 25% of their wardrobe. This is crazy because of how true it is, and it really proves that we don’t need as much as we think we do, and we should be more aware in the moment of how much we will actually wear a piece of clothing. If everyone took a step back every time they made a clothing purchase, and honestly thought about how much they would truly wear it, we would be reducing some of the carbon emissions that are destroying our environment.

Is it a want or a Need?

As humans, we often say "I need that!" or "I have to get that!", but have you ever stopped to think if you REALLY need it?

Almost every year IPhone comes out with a new model, and many people are quick to replace their old phones that they have only had for a few years. This can be a huge problem because electronic devices are made to resist decompostion. It could take 1 million just simply for the glass to decompose. These devices make up for 70% of our overall toxic waste.

Next time you are thinking of buying a new phone, think to yourself, "How will this affect the environment."

People in general, tend to be rather impulsive when it comes to making purchases. Whether it concerns food, or clothes or any want or need. We, in the western world tend to be rather frivolous when it comes to spending, like buying a new phone when your current one works fine. Or, on clothing, people don't stop to think, "do I really need this $500 pair of shoes I only will wear once?" Not only does the climate take a blow from frivolities such as the aforementioned, the wallet does as well. Just stopping and thinking whether or not they need the newest tech or designer clothing or that soda makes a difference.

I agree with you, if the human was reasonable, we would live in better life's conditions. Unfortunetly, the human always wants more, we can't want to see how lucky we are. Also, Fashion is a business, this make buying. Even if we don't need it. But it's the same for everything. If we like to read, we would buy more books, if we like to draw, we always would buy more pencils and supplies. I can give you lot's of exemples like that. We just need to think more with our head and not with our heart. At least on this subject. At least on this subject. It's not 'cause things aren't expensive that they don't pollute. At us to change things, to them change together.

I totally agree with you because I have the same problem. I want some shoes, but I already got ones before r for another thing. I rather buy some new clothes that helping others ( give money...)

I totally agree with you because I have the same problem. I want some shoes, but I already got ones before r for another thing. I rather buy some new clothes that helping others ( give money to help africans for examples)

I completely agree and think that people should start to think about what they really need and once in a while should splurge and get something they want. As humans we will always have those impulsive thoughts to just go out and buy something that we see appealing but we should start to look at want it really is and will it still be appalling to use a year time and if you don't know then you should wait a while and if you still really like then you should buy it. And when you look at the new iPhones that come out every year and your looking to up grade you don't always have to buy the newest phone the only think that really changes is that the camera is slightly better or the battery is slightly better but other than that no one really needs the newest one other than just to say they have it. And the same could be said about clothing.

I 100% agree with all of these statements. Often times we see a trend on social media or in school, and convince ourselves we need to have that. Weather it’s a new piece of technology, clothing, or some sort of gadget, we tend to not think about the repercussions and just spend. But, if we thought before we bought about how these purchases are really effecting our environment, I don't think we would make half of the purchases we do. Now with this extra money you have, because you didn’t waste your money on something that is killing our planet, why not put it to good use. A great way to spend some extra cash is donate it. Give is to charity or donate it to some climate petition or act! Now you know your money will be used to help, not to kill.

Unfortunately, society and corporate institutions have taken advantage of humanity’s impulsivity. They cater to us with “new ideas” and “improved products,” when in reality, these products are barely better than the last. I really enjoy the iPhone example, especially in this case. Apple creates ads that make their “evolved” technology seem faster, sleeker, and of better quality. This intrigues viewers, and from the tactics used by the company, decide that they “need” a new device. The increase in demand increases production, and therefore emits elevated levels of carbon and other air pollutions. It is in human nature to have such impulsivity, but it is the fault of companies to take advantage of us for their own gain.

I’ve always gotten hand-me-down phones from my parents. Every 3 or so years they get a new phone and when they do they pass their old one down to me. Because of this, I have a big view of how often phone companies release phones. A year or two ago I got my moms old IPhone 8, that she got a few years before that. Approximately 4 years ago my mom got the iPhone 8, when it was brand new. 4 years later and they’re on the iPhone 14, probably working on the 15. It’s just crazy to think of how fast they create new generations so they continue to be relevant. They also do things like changing the headphone jack, or changing the charging port. So then, you have to buy even more from them when you get a new phone. These companies take what’s popular, and use it to make more money and to get people to buy more stuff.

I feel like everyone wants to but brand new clothes even though that is very harmful to the environment because its fast fashion. Fast fashion creates many fashion fuels and the clothes will most likely be thrown away later. If you want clothes that you don't actually need you should get something second hand. Not only would it be for a good deal it is so much better for the environment!

I agree with this, fast fashion has a very big and negative impact on the climate. These big brands that contribute to fast fashion tend to use the cheapest materials available in order to offer low prices, this means that the items you purchase wont be great quality or last long. People get bored of the new fashion trends quickly and buy new clothes as soon as they decide that they no longer want the older ones. Shopping at thrift stores is a great alternative as you mentioned because you will be able to get your clothes for good deals, just like these big brands are offering, but it is also way better for the environment. Plus you can develop your own unique style.  Another great way to reduce waste is to sew your own clothing through repurposing something old or purchasing ethically sourced environmentally friendly material!

I agree fast fashion contributes heavily to climate change. Micro-trends also contibute to the funding of the fast fashion industry. I think that people who can't afford anything else that isn't fast fashion are the only ones that should be buying from these stores. We need to start demanding that fast fashion brands be held accountable and also that peopl making the clothes get higher wages.

I agree with everyone here, these points are really good. I think that before buying clothes, you should try to get ethically sourced ones, but there is one counter argument that really resonates with me. Some people have a hard time finding clothes that fit them at thrift stores and are unable to make their own. Some of these fast fashion brands have pretty extensive sizing and options, which makes them more appealing. I don’t think this justifies the environmental impact or the effects on the workers, but it is something to consider, and in the future hopefully there are extensive sizing choices at affordable prices and the clothes are made ethically and as naturally as possible. That being said, I do love thrifting and think it’s a great option that is *usually* affordable, and it’s actually quite likely to find trendy clothes, as trends come in and out of style.

Between wants and needs there is a thin line dividing them. People everyday can say they “need” a new shirt, they “want” the newest video game, but do they really? Of course we need, food, water, some clothes on our body, but needing the newest iPhone, clothes, and video game is a stretch. Buying second-hand can decrease the amount of money used on all these new things. Trading in your iPhone for a new one can reduce the price significantly. Buying within the clearance section, all these ways can reduce the amount of money you are spending on your needs and wants.

I totally agree with what everyone’s been saying but sometimes its not necessarily a choice between thrifting and going to a consignment store is that not all the clothes at a thrift store will fit everyone for example they might fit someone’s waist but be to short in the legs or visa versa. The point im trying to make is that some people would fine better fitting clothes at a consignment store rather than just going thrifting.

I agree with the points that everyone has made here. Although many people think they can only find good clothes when buying them new, you can actually find lots of good things at consignment and thrift stores. Not only can this save you money, but it can also save a lot of carbon emissions from being produced. Thrift shopping is good for the environment because it keeps clothes out of landfills, reduces carbon and chemical pollution caused by clothing production, save resources, and lowers water consumption. So, with all these things that thrift shopping can help, it’s an easy decision to start thrifting more clothes not will you still be getting nice clothes, but you are also helping the environment.

Wants and needs can be difficult to determine but there are things that we need such as food, water, shelter. Things that we want can be clothes, electronics, etc. I do think that we need clothes but I don’t think that we have to constantly buy new ones just because we get bored of wearing the same things. Just like cellphones, we keep them for a few years and then we decide to buy a new one because it starts to get slow and worn down, but do we really need to buy a new one if it still works fine. I think that’s where the lines blur between want and need.

In the past i had some trouble with wants or needs but i think maturing is realising this. I try to get a good use out of everything that i own and only buy if it’s necessary. I haven’t bought new clothes since my birthday which was more than a month ago but that was a special occasion. I agree that it can be difficult thinking about which is a necessity and which is i want. Using your advice could help a lot of people to think about their carbon footprint and what they ready have.

I totally agree that the lines between wants and needs is frequently blurred. Another thing that kind of tags along with this thought is the fact that so many of us live in excess. Like you said clothes are a necessity but the amount of clothes, and where we get them from is a completely different story. I think it’s important for people to buy clothes and things second hand. When you buy things second hand it’s reusing and doesn’t support the super high demand and production for new clothes. Also if you are going to buy brand new clothes it’s important to buy them from sustainable, and humane companies. Between realizing that sometimes you don’t need that new shirt and buying second hand I think we can make a big improvement on our carbon footprints.

Það er mikilvægt fyrir fólk að átta sig á því að það er munur á að vilja fá eitthvað og þurfa að fá eitthvað. Mikilvægt að frekar að vera aðeins meira svangur og fá heita máltíð í staðinn fyrir eitthvað rusl út í búð t.d.

Ekki þarf að kaupa vörur sem maður þarf ekki nauðsynlega a að halda.

að mínu mati að hafa nýjasta símann eða hafa nýjasta bílinn það er mjög notað ef sá sem þú ert enn að vinna, vegna tveggja ástæðna, hnefinn einn er sóun á peningum, önnur ástæðan, eykur sorpið aftur á móti auka mengunina, svo við þurfum að stöðva þetta.

Mður þarf ekki alltaf að kaupa nýtt reyna að finna það sem að manni langar í notað

Langar þig í eitthvað eða þarf þú eitthvað? T.d. langar þér í nýja peysu en þarf þú nýja peysu ef þú átt margar?

In my opinion, having the latest technology is a want, in fact it isn't necessary to buy it every time a new model comes out.
For example, I buy a new phone or new tablet or personal computer when the one have particular problems or is broke.

Some people are very spoiled and get to choose from ten options, while some people only have a few choices or don't even have any. So when you have earned something, treasure it, protect it, treat it well. Sometimes when you go shopping and want to buy things, think of this first: Do I really need it? Is it necessary? Or do I just want to have fun with this thing? etc.
Think first of what you really need, maybe you spent money on unnecessary things when you could actually be doing things with that money such as donating it to the poor or stray animals.
I hope everyone puts at least a bit thought into this, feel free to comment here and share your thoughts! Thank you!

I strongly agree with this we should be thankful for what we get instead of being spoiled lots of kid doesn't even get anything they want.

I agree with this a lot !! It sucks seeing kids either featured on TV and on videos online being so spoiled and ungrateful for what they have, and it's always (or at least most of the time) people who have too much money for their own good. I'd say I use the money I have wisely, and I don't spend it on the first thing I see at a store that I want, I always think and ask myself, "will I really use this often?" That way of thinking has always helped me control how much money I spend on unnecessary items!

I strongly agree with this statement! Social media platforms such as YouTube have such a big influence on today's youth. As an example, there are influencers who dwell on the opportunity of purchasing whatever they desire, and the younger audience gets influenced by the "wanting" lifestyle. Moreover, I love how you talked about going through a thinking process to determine if you or I really "need" something. Something I'd like to add is that when we want something, we should all have the mindset of being selfless rather than self-centered, as I believe this will help us discover the bigger picture. 

I completely agree, and especially with clothes. It feels as though there is always a "new" and "trendy" item that society has pushed upon us. The hazardous part with this is the creating of fast fashion, although cheap for buyers, the amount of consequences it has for A) the people creating the garments, and B) the environment. The people creating the garment, are being treated unfairly with their wages, exploited, forced to work many hours. The environment also must suffer, such as needing about 700 gallons to create one cotton shirt and 2000 gallons for a pair of jeans, plastics also becoming a problem because of packing, polyester and nylon which take more than a 100 years to biodegrade, and also creates lots of waste. Although we can not stop these fast fashions from taking place we can take our time to find brands that are environmentally sustainable although it might not be the cheapest, it will last longer and be a more green option. Another solution if you don't have the money to pay for expensive sustainable clothes, you can get clothes from second hand stores and thrift stores! And when you grow out of your clothes, you can give them to somebody new like a friend, cousin, younger sibling or even a charity to give to the homeless or somebody who needs it. With this fast fashion society we must learn to adapt and advocate for new ways to challenge this "fashion" and do our part even in the smallest ways like donating out grown shoes and giving it to somebody who needs it.

i think the newest technologies are all wants, not needs.  i think its fine to get a new phone or computer if your old one breaks, but other than that you don't need to upgrade every time apple or samsung releases a new model. of course, consumerism definately ties into this, and the whole mentality to "buy buy buy", but that kind of E-waste is definately not sustainable for the enviroment.
personally, i only buy new technology if something is broken beyond repair, and even then i pick the thing i think will last me the longest.
what do you guys think? :3

I totally agree. I got my first phone in grade 6, still have the same one today, and it works perfectly fine. Many friends of mine or people I know are constantly getting new phones or technology, even when not needed. Another thing that people need to think about is if new clothing is a need or want. Theres a lot of people that buy new clothes when not needed because they love fashion, and many homeless or poor people that would do anything to just get a new t-shirt or pair of pants. But also, you have to see both sides because there are so many people that really care about fashion and style, and see it as their hobby and one of their passions. I think that its not a bad things when people want new clothes because they really care about how they dress, but when you do grow out of clothes or if theres some you dont like anymore, consider donating them. Whenever I buy new clothes I always look in my closet or wardrobe and see if theres anything I could donate.

Having clothing is a need, however there are ways to not contribute to the problem as much as you may be now. An example of this is thrifting. A common misconception is that thrifted clothes are "dirty" or "old" when in reality many thrifted clothes are from good companies and have nothing wrong with them. Thrifting is a good way to get the things you need at reduced prices and with no packaging which brings down your carbon footprint. If we recycle clothing and let other people use it, it reduces the amount of carbon that is being put out into our atmosphere at the factories and during transportation.

having a phone is a want for most people. but for others they need one. if they use a phone for work or school, if it's there only why to contact there family or friends. they need a phone to socialize to make money to live. so having a phone can be a want and a need.

I strongly agree with you because when young children want a phone and then get they will eventually get social media. When they download the apps because their friends are already on it. Then one day they start to scroll on tik tok sometime videos pop up and It is about climate change some of the videos say like are world is a point of no return and we will all die in the next 10 years. This could really scare kids into thinking that would actually happen. But that's not true at all if start to take action now we could try to slow climate change down and make it not such a big risk.

I think that having a phone is important. I personally use my phone for research, school
and so I can contact my parents if needed/so they can now where I am and dispute the fact I think it is okay to have a phone, I do not think it is a good idea to buy electronics super often. So I think that a phone can be a need but a phone super often is a want not a need.

In my opinion, having the latest technology is a want. In fact it isn't necessary to buy it every time a new model comes out as the basic functions of the latest model are the same as the previous one.
Personally I buy a new phone only when the one I have no longer works or if particular problems arise.

Today due to our lifestyle, we have a lot of wants near our needs. Why? We must change our lifestyle for example buying only things we really need because we can reduce our footprint and our waste, but the the problem is economy, we must create a sustainable economy where we can buy products made with recycled material.

Something that has definitely become a problem nowadays is the rise in consumerism. This is especially prominent in spaces such as social media, where the next new trend is an opportunity for an abundance of purchases that aren’t typically necessary, causing excess waste and product consumption. While I personally try and stay realistic with my purchases, I have seen how the influence of others has caused a blurred line between “wants” and “needs”. Additionally, with the rise in online shopping and things such as fast fashion, making purchases have become so convenient that they end up becoming second-nature to most people.

Many of us buy things to appear, but we don't really need them! I don't agree with the high consumism, I don't understand why we should change objects that still work, such as people who change mobile phone every year, or more clothes even their closets are full.

A lot of different people can have opinions on what is needed in life and what is a want, but that can get out of hand depending on the kind of life someone lives. Someone like me would say what IS needed is shelter, food, water, and warmth/some kind of cooling system. Perhaps a way to communicate with others like a telephone, but just for communication. Humans need what I listed (in my opinion) because it’s what’s necessary for them to survive, at least in a slightly healthy way. To decrease the amount our carbon footprints are, we need to figure out what to get rid of or limit stuff that is wanted and not needed, so we don’t get rid of our necessary things to survive and still decrease our carbon footprint.

We should know the difference between want and need. Us wanting stuff allows more carbon footprints than we really need. What of the stuff we need and want and how do we determine what is acceptable.

Smartphones have become a big part of our daily lives.  However, the production of these devices contains many pollutants.  Is having the latest model a need or a want?  You do not need the latest models of phones, laptops, or other electronics.  Some of these can last you up to 10 years and are built to last.  Upgrading the model has also become easier with online software updates and hardware upgrades.

I agree, a lot of stuff regarding devices can be easily fixed by yourself if you do some research and if not, can be fixed by someone who specialises in this type of stuff for a pretty reasonable price compared to buying a new phone.

I think that in this day and age, people buy the latest phones more to impress their peers rather than actually needing it, and I think that is very unnecessary and useless.

I remember this quote from a movie, but I can’t  quite remember what it was called, it’s a very touching and true quote:
“We buy things we don’t need with money we don’t have to impress people we don’t like”
Modern age society I consider very much narcissistic and self centred, which is quite concerning.

In this day and age it is smarter to buy a phone and use it for many years,however big tech companies such as Apple make it harder to do so through planned obsolescence. Planned obsolescence is when a device is designed to break after a certain quantity of usage. Apple also locks down devices making repair seem very very difficult, and often times it is just cheaper to buy a new device.

I completely agree. Newer phones have the same features that are already present in older models, so even the occasional software update can prove to be unnecessary in terms of practicality. Additionally, companies such as Apple take advantage of consumerism and promote their phones to many just to price their phones at expensive ranges. Nowadays, it’s less about needing a new phone, and more about just wanting the newest model.

Want and Needs are two words with similar ideals but different definitions. Need is the definition of requiring an object, individual or idea that is necessary. On the other hand want is something that is desired but not needed. Need is a part of want as much as want is a part of need. People often justify their actions by confusing these two. An example would be bathing with hot water. Do humans really need to bathe with hot water or do they just want to bathe with hot water. Everyday a chose is made using these words affecting the environment one way or another.

The difference between the wants or needs. People will both agree and disagree with me on this topic but I strongly believe that it's important for people to have technology ( Phones, computers, etc.) Not only people have use technology to stay in contact with relative but they have use it to the good extent of it. Some people feel like there voice is been heard from miles away without being in a particular place. While other may say its been helping them  with mental healthy and school work. The part the you might disagree with me is, do they really need the latest technology. And the answer is no they do not but its not the people fault when the companies are bring out the newer version of the phone while making the old version not work anymore. Forcing the people to buy the newer product its more of the company fault then our peoples.

I think technology is very important in our lives, just these past years were an example of that. Without a mobile device or computer, no one could have learned anything during the pandemic. Phones can help you stay connected with relatives, yes, but they can also help us find our way when we get lost, stay safe in dangerous situations, and teach us important things we need to know in any given situation. I definitely think if phones are a need, the latest versions are needed too. Since technology is growing all the time, the newest and latest versions can help better our lives as well, especially when we need it most.

Needs are something that is thought to be necessary or essential required for life. For example, as human, we need to food to eat and keep healthy. Water to drink to avoid from died of thirsty. Shelter to live for protection. And clothing to wear and keep us warm. If we don't have those, we can die for different situations.

On the contrary, wants are something that human desired to have and are not necessary to have. For example, entertainment, travel, designed clothing, video games, electronics, and so on. People can live without those things, however some people have desire for too much things. The reason for that can be because of pleasure and jealousy. Various people have different pleasure, but mostly it is for comparison to others.

There should be a clear difference in everyone's eyes about what they want or need because there are many people who buy things continuously saying that they need and not that they want.  That's a huge difference!

There is a severe addiction to technology that is growing in the more recent generations. Basic human needs are things that someone could physically not survive without. Human wants are something that you want, but could definitely live without. It's very distorted when people are unknowing of the huge difference between needing something and wanting something.

Soon, half of the things on the want section are going to go extinct as there are more  accessible and easy to find online versions of the other things. The addiction to technology is only growing stronger. The problem is that for a lot of people, they see things in the want section as a need, causing an insane demand for these things, while some go without the needs.

Yes, I agree. Many people want things, mostly new technology, and then they say they need it. But is it really necessary to have the latest phone, or a new computer every year? Many of the things you want now, you won't want later, or you will barely use it if you buy it. Many people want and buy these things just to get a simple pleasure, not realizing they are taking for granted the things they already have.

I agree. Like most people said here, many people want things that they don't need, For Example, new latest technology, etc. One of the reasons why people want to get things that they don't need is that they want to fit the society. or like they want to be "cool" and stuff. But they don't realize that they are affecting the environment in a bad way.

I believe cell phones are more so a want rather than a need. If our generation knew and understood the environmental impacts these devices had, they wouldn't be as quick to covet the new models that are always being released.

I agree with you but Across the 11 countries surveyed, people’s attitudes toward mobile phones tend to be largely positive. In most of the countries, a large majority say mobile phones have been good for them personally, and many also say mobile phones positively impact education and the economy. Mobile phone users also overwhelmingly agree that their phones help them to stay in touch with faraway friends and family and keep them informed of the latest news and information. At the same time, people’s positive attitudes are paired with concerns about the impact of mobile phones on certain aspects of society and especially their impact on children.

I agree with both of you. I agree that the usage of phones could be less. I am sad to say this but I saw a family eating around a table at a restaurant glued to their phones. Still, there are also other times when a phone could be necessary, like communicating with others that far distance away. Like most things, this is definitely a case where phones are over used like the restaurant scenario, but there are other cases that are better like long-distance communication. It really depends on the person behind the phone.

As a child, have you and your guardian ever passed through the toy section as you were on your way to grab some ingredients for tonight's dinner, however on your way to the produce section a certain toy catches your eye? You then proceed to ask your guardian for the pacific toy as you “needed” to have it, but after been given a firm no you continue to beg for it till it’s yours. While this wasn’t the case for everyone, it is for some. In the scenario above, you as a child needed this toy, and at the time it might've been your number one priority, but it’s really seen as a want since you didn’t have to purchase the toy as it’s something you could live without. However, the food that you and your guardian had originally gone to the store to pickup is a need since it truly does provide and is something that you can’t really live without. To sum up what had been said, a want is something that you desire, something that you can live without, but a need is something that is actually is able to benefit you and something that you can’t really live without.

I agree with the explanation that demonstrates the difference between “wants and needs”, and the creative example of using toys at the grocery store to explain this concept.

I agree with the explanation that demonstrates the difference between “wants and needs”, and the creative example of using toys at the grocery store to explain this concept.

I also agree to this and thought this was a very well thought out example on needs and wants. The toy analogy not only highlighted what is important to the story but also kept it extremely simple for most readers to comprehend.

I fully agree with this argument. It is well-supported and explained. In our lives, we must distinguish our actual needs from our wishes. Avoid unnecessary carbon footprints and protect our planets.

The meaning for "want” in the Oxford Dictionary is “have a desire to possess or do (something); wish for,” while the meaning for “need” is “require (something) because it is essential or very important.” Hopefully, you can see the difference already. Buying new devices, for example, is something that is mostly wanted, not needed. Was your device broken or not usable? If yes, then yes, that new device was probably needed. But, if not, then you wanted that new device. According to Columbia climate school, 25% more waste is produced between Thanksgiving and Christmas in the United States because of these excessive purchases. 45% of greenhouse gas emotions come from the manufacturing of these purchases that we buy and use every day. Meaning, buying and engaging in the production of these products will cause more demand for them, which means the production will only continue. That’s why before making a purchase, stop and think: do I really need this?

is a laptop a wants or needs?

Needs, or else I will die of boring ness

its both a need and a want, cuz if you have a laptop then you can do a lot of stuff on it and will make your life a lot easier, but some people just wanna game and maybe thats just a want?

I will lose my purpose of life

interesting

A laptop can be both a want or a need depending on how you plan on using it. Due to how much our world has advanced including our education system, having a laptop or some sort of technology is necessary to write papers, submit homework, or to check emails. For work, it can literally be a mean of survival because without a laptop in some working fields you can't work without one therefore you will have no means of earning money which leads to survival issues. Now, if you feel the need to get a new laptop or computer everytime an updated new model comes out, that turns it into a want. Or if you use it for the sole purpose of things like gaming, watching youtube, etc. then it is most definitely a want.

We often think we know the difference between wants and needs but do we really? Do you need a burger to feed yourself? Or do you want a burger because it’s the more yummy option compared to a bowl of salad? Just like this, there are so many things we think we need for survival when we really just want them. We love to have  a variety in our lives. For example with cloths, we tend to buy so many just so we can “not wear the same thing everyday.” Society likes to create these norms that we then feel pressured to need lots of cloths when survival does not require hundreds of clothing pieces. Many times, these cloths can even remain untouched. You can use that money wisely on other necessities like food to protect yourself and the environment. Also, buying cloths requires driving to the mall or store or online shopping in which it means packaging and plastic. The constant driving to the mall can be increasing so much pollution to our environment and the constant online shopping is increasing plastic usage which in both cases is increasing your carbon footprint. Therefore, we are harming the environment. In conclusion, if you can learn to differentiate between your wants and needs, you will be preventing the burning of fossil fuels which will create a better environment.

Nowadays, people often buy things such as clothes, electronics, and much more without realizing if it is really needed or not. For examples people love to have new electronics, but producing them and throwing them away has many negative causes. Producing the different components need many resources that can be contaminated. After producing it, people buy the product. However, many people want the newest products. They would throw the old ones away when they could still be used. When electronics are improperly disposed and end up in landfills, toxic chemicals are released, impacting the earth's air, soil, water and ultimately, human health. Lots of times those were just wants, do we really need it?

I agree. people buy stuff only thinking about what they want. They don't think about the part that it doesn't really help the environment. It only wastes energy and resources. It causes more pollution in earth. People should only buy stuff if they NEED it

Agreed. Why are people spending precious money on things like makeup, handbags, electronics, and toy without thinking about our environment and what negative effects it has on the environment. As “hahahahahah” has said, kids nowadays buy electronics and want everything new that has just came out, and since they have bought a new device they throw their old one away that is still in perfectly good conditions and can still be used for at least 2 or more years. So, we should really consider what we NEED and what we WANT.

I agree. However, many people are not willing to give up these things, so I think it could be at least improved if people put in an effort to find and purchase items made with clean energy, recycled material, or handmade items in the case of bags, toys, and clothes instead of choosing the convenience of factory-made and mass-produced items. If you're going to spend money on a bunch of low-quality items that you'll only use for a few years why not spend that money on good-quality items that will last a long time and reduce waste?

It has become normal to throw away old devices after two or three years, tossing them aside in favor of newer versions of, often, the exact same thing. This is especially common with smartphones, as brands release new phones at a rapid rate. It is important to stop and consider if purchasing a new model of a device is really necessary. Do you truly need the newest technology, or are you just enticed by the idea of something new and exciting, swayed by the marketing? There is also cultural pressure to buy the latest version, as it is often seen as “bad” to have an old model of something. These phones and other devices are polluting the Earth through not only the waste of throwing them away but also through the rapid rate at which they are being produced and the emissions from these factories. People need to use their devices for longer before getting rid of them instead of buying new versions every few years. This will both reduce waste of discarded devices and demand for rapid production, overall decreasing the carbon emissions from these processes.

Your Post: New clothes! Are they really necessary? You might think so, but probably not. The United Nations Environment Programme found that one pair of blue jeans emits 33.4 kilograms in production. Almost 2 billion pairs of blue jeans are produced every year! That’s equal to 66 billion kilos for each year of blue jean production. Luckily, clothes like jeans that are durable and built to last can be worn again, again, and again. They can be sent to thrift stores once you don’t want them anymore, and someone else can wear them with no cost to the environment. New clothes are definitely a want, not a need.

Over the last 10 years, technology has become a necessity in our daily lives. Many people in the United States purchase a new phone every time one comes out. This not only is extremely expensive but also affects our environment. Every time a new phone comes out, each piece manufactured contributes to carbon emissions in our atmosphere. Since large phone companies such as Apple or Samsung are global, that means the emissions are on a much larger scale. To prevent as many emissions, keep your old devices.

All of you reading this are using some sort of electronic device to read this. Those electronics contribute to your carbon footprint, but throwing them away only will have more trash in landfills. But do you really want a better phone? Was it worth throwing away your two-year-old phone for the newest version?  Did you really need to throw away your old graphics card for 10% faster loading times? Next time you want a better electronic, think to yourself, couldn’t you still do what you do with your old one rather than the new one?

By throwing our litter away in a recycling trashcan, it could help save the environment by reducing greenhouse gases and also reducing the chance of developing pollution in our ecosystem. We should have the 4 types of recycling pins almost anywhere where it's needed and trash could be thrown away in, such as malls, parks, schools, and any other public place.

I believe that most of the time when we ask for new things its more of a want. For example asking for the newest phone or things similar. Most of the time the device you are using is able to be in use but we just desire having a newer one. I believe it becomes a need when your device is almost unable to use. Like if it starts malfunctioning or it gets hard to use.

Is it a necessity to have a smartphone? It is convenient, but cutting down on smartphones would greatly improve the amount of carbon in the air, and might be good for any community due to an improvement in work ethic and such.

Having the latest technology can be a need in some cases, and a want in others. Nowadays, technology is required to complete many school assignments and projects due to online essay writing, the applications of google drive, and the necessity to turn in activities digitally. In other cases, technology is a want due to it only being there for personal entertainment such as watching YouTube or social media.

In most realistic cases, it is only necessary to upgrade personal technology such as cell phones and smart watches every four-five years. Replacing technology in less time than that leads to unnecessary waste and an increased carbon footprint. You can break the need to always use personal technology (phones, tablets, etc) by taking part in outdoor activities such as hiking, running, and walking with friends or family.

Do you really need a new phone? Using your phone until it is not longer usable is a great way to help your carbon footprint

I agree, I think you should only get a new device when your old phone is starting to break/not work. Only if you need them though.

I agree. Not buying a new phone until the current one you're using breaks sounds sustainable. That way, more materials aren't being used up. Even if it seems like a small amount, small things add up in the end.

Totally agreed, a phone should be used until it dies, since making a new phone just creates more carbonfootprint.

I also totally agree about this, think about the slaves that is suffering.

I totally agree because using till it is broken can not even save money, and only buy new devices only if it is needed, because it does creates more carbon footprint and it is bad too.

Agreed.  Most of these phones are built to last and are durable.  So buying a new one every time a new model is released is unnecessary.

Yes, I totally agree with you. We should be able to identify our needs or wants, buying a new phone is not a way to solve the problem, instead would just cause more issues and harming the environment. I think that we should probably buy a new device unless it is broken or unusable.

I agree. Your old phone has all the necessary things you need. Even though you buys a new phone, it will have the same function as the old one but just upgraded. People do not need an upgrade on a phone to just get the same stuff over and over again. The phone becomes unnecessary because it is almost the same thing as your last one. Also a new phone only fill your wants but not your needs. Your old phone is enough to fulfill your needs unless if it's broken. People should only buy a new phone if its broken, When factories make phones, it release carbon dioxide with can pollute the air and cause climate change.

I totally agree. Of course our phones has all the necessary needs that we need like Google Maps or Google that helps you to search things. But, if you take someone’s phone away they can still live. If you take someone’s food or water away, they cannot survive. It is not necessary to buy a new phone every time a new one comes out. We do not need an upgrade if it is just the same thing on a little technology over and over again. Your phone is still good and healthy to be used unless if it is damaged or broken. Technologies like phones causes pollution because there will be new factories that makes gadgets like computer or phones that releases mixtures like hydrogen and methane. Those mixtures can cause bad pollution and climate change can get worse.

I strongly agree with this getting a new phone isnt a need unless the old one is broken or disfunction because this is wasting money and is not necessary so i agree that getting a new phne before the old one is broken or dead is a complete waste of money

I also agree that we don't need to buy new phones if we don't need them.If you do need a new phone you could easily buy a second hand one because it doesn't increase the carbon footprint as much,or you could get one passed down to you by a family member (my own family has been doing this for years,and it works).

I agree with you on this topic. Buying new phones very frequently also impacts us financially. I believe we should carefully choose a phone that can satisfy our demands for the long term, considering properties such as storage and camera quality and it shouldn't have to be brand new. Every time we change a phone we should give our old one away to someone who needs it or try selling it online.

I agree. you don't need a new phone as long as the one you have is not broken

I agree. As long as your current phone works well and isn't broken or glitchy, you don't really need to buy a new one. That way, less resources will be used and your carbon footprint will be way smaller.

We all want things we don't need, but when doing so we should think about all the people that don't even have what they need to survive rather than us thinking about things we want. It is good to occasionally treat yourself but, we should be mindful of the people who aren't so fortunate.

We should focus on things we actually need rather than things we want, because wants are what make carbon footprints bigger, rather than needs. Needs limit them to a certain amount, and make them smaller, which is beneficial for the environment, but wants make them dramatically increase in size, to the point where they might very negatively impact the environment. So, let’s focus on buying the things we need, and try to avoid buying the things we don’t!

while clothing is something that everyone needs and wants in their lives its important that were not to over use that privilege's. this is because if we keep spending money on clothes it can result in an extreme amount of waste which is incredibly bad for the environment. effects that waste of clothes can take is highly put on wild life for they are often sharing space with the amount of litter and waste.

I think that going to thrift shops, giving your clothes to thrift shops, and getting clothes from other relatives could also be a solution to the problem. Clothes are needed but sometimes when you get too many clothes it can become a want. Or maybe just use hemp to make clothes.

I strongly agree! People don't even realise how many resources are used to make their clothing. To create a pair of blue jeans, about 1,800 gallons of water are needed just to grow enough cotton for one pair. Great ways to save both the planet and your wallet are thrift shopping, using older clothes at home instead of throwing them away and passing clothes from generation to generation.

Needs are something that is thought to be necessary or essential required for life. For example, as human, we need to food to eat and keep healthy. Water to drink to avoid from died of thirsty. Shelter to live for protection. And clothing to wear and keep us warm. If we don't have those, we can die for different situations.

On the contrary, wants are something that human desired to have and are not necessary to have. For example, entertainment, travel, designed clothing, video games, electronics, and so on. People can live without those things, however some people have desire for too much things. The reason for that can be because of pleasure and jealousy. Various people have different pleasure, but mostly it is for comparison to others.

Better for the environment and it'll reduce the carbon footprint from water and electricity usage.

I AGREE WE NEED TO REDUCE THE ELECTRICITY WE USE EVRY DAY. WE CAN DO THAT BY TURNING OF THE WATER WHEN YOU ARE NOT USING IT. RECYCLING, REUSING, AND REDUSE THE PRODUCTS WE USE IN OUR DAILY LIFE CAN ALSO HAVE AN POSITIVE EFFECT ON SAVING ELECTRICITY.

you don't need it.. remember a water bottle!

always bring a reusable water bottle

I agree, you should always bring a water bottle, it also helps you save money because you could just use a water filling machine.

Depends on situation.
A reusable water bottle is always helpful since if you use a bottle that could only fill up water once you're contributing to the plastic waste. Of course, if you forgetted to bring your water bottle just buy one, but don't do that often.

Water bottle agreed, but i personally won't be outside only unless if it's for eating outside, so i dont have much experience

It is a want, you don’t need the newest technology, you just need one that gets the job done.

I agree

I agree, if it does the job then i dont see what is wrong with it

eh if it's for working then it's prob a need

The majority of people around the world take part in fast fashion. Most people our age goes shopping pretty often, buying new clothes forgetting about the old. But this isn't environmentally friendly. All fast fashion is, is cheap, poor quality disposable clothing that ends up in landfills.

How many people actually shop with fast fashion? I wonder what percentage of people thrift their clothes.

I agree!

Yes!!!!!

yes we should thrift more

Where is the line between want and need? When does something transition from a want to a need? If you are speaking literally, there is not much other than food water and air that we "truly" need.

when buying new things you should consider whether you really need it and will actually enjoy having it. A lot of people buy things they don't need and end up having a lot of useless stuff. They end up throwing it away quickly and it just goes to waste. Instead, buy stuff you actually like and use it for as long as you can.

Some people may want to buy things like clothes our devices new, but if we buy used, we use less resources that may take fossil fuels to make.

I think it's much more important to think about what you need (a lower carbon footprint) Instead of what you want (like a new phone or clothes) , because in the long run it will have a much bigger impact.

I agree with this instead of getting tons of beef jerky I will cut beef jerky out of my life reducing the plastic waste I make as well.

I agree kinda a weird example but yes we spend way to much time and money on stuff that just hurts the envierment.

In my opinion, it’s a want.

I get a new phone once or twice each year.

No. All I need is a phone that works and lets me do what I need to do but I don't buy my phones so I don't really get to pick whether it’s a new or old model.

No I don't. I usually get gadgets as a gift so I don't really think about those things.

Last year, my average screen time was 17 hours a day. I couldn’t go anywhere without it, it became a part of me. But I went camping and left it at home for 4 days. At first, I thought I was gonna die, but it felt surprisingly good. I didn’t have to worry about replying to anyone and all that stuff. Since then, I have tried to detoxify (no use of gadgets) twice every month. It’s become my me time and it helped me discover my love for reading and writing. And now my screen time is down to 5 hours a day. And not like before, I don’t carry my phone everywhere.

i went through something similar; slowly decreasing the screen time is what worked for me, slowly but surely cutting out 1 hour per week until I met the goal, keep improving and getting better is all you need to focus on. and it's okay to seek professional help if you feel like you need it

I dont get a new cellphone often.

In the last 4 years, I have had 3 phones but one of them was a hand-me-down. I recently just got a new phone that I plan on using for at least the next 4 years and break the cycle of buying new phones so often.

I'm going to get a new cellphone this year and i got my current cellphone 2 years ago.

I dont need the latest technology but it would be nice to have.

I'm a student from IES Chabas even though my commute to school is a halfhour drive. I go there due to an art program it has. Due to this my carbon footprint is really elevated.

I would love to go by train but its undergoing construccion and thus not in order. If the bus sistem in spain were to become more reliable and more accesible I could definetly go to school with public transport.

Typically, people generally want more stuff. It showcases wealth or power, and can very easily bring happiness. Whether that's a new pair of shoes or a family vacation across the world, all of these things greatly impact everyone's each individual carbon footprint. A carbon footprint is an individual's impact on the number of greenhouse gasses in the atmosphere. According to The Nature Conservatory's "What is a Carbon Footprint" The average carbon footprint for a person in the United States is 16 tons, one of the highest rates in the world. Globally, the average carbon footprint is closer to 4 tons. To have the best chance of avoiding a 2℃ rise in global temperatures, the average global carbon footprint per year needs to drop to under 2 tons by 2050, so this is a very relevant thing in our lives today. How can we prevent these rising global temperatures? Taking surveys such as this one helps us understand our personal footprint and how we can reduce these significantly high numbers. For me personally, travel is my biggest contributor to my overall carbon footprint. I take public transportation frequently and my family owns an all-electric car, but I travel on planes a lot which drastically increases my footprint. I think traveling to see friends or family is important, but I will do my best in the future to reduce the amounts of unnecessary layovers and long plane rides I have to take. Another big thing I can do is to bring my own bags/straws/containers when I'm out shopping or getting food. Taking all of this unnecessary plastic and other waste contributes greatly to the amount of carbon being released and it's really a very simple change to my current lifestyle. Saving our planet is something that must be placed at an utmost priority in all of our minds, as it without a doubt affects us all!

Human desires tend to overpower genuine needs. It is natural, and not completely detrimental, to want things other than the bare necessities out of life. However, it is time to set limits in purchases to help prevent further harm of the planet.

Buying certain things might not seem like it emits carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, which is why it causes what are called indirect emissions. Indirect emissions of carbon dioxide regard the carbon emissions that come from manufacturing, transporting, and delivering an item to a shopper (Environmental Science Journal For Teens, 2017). For instance, when a person orders takeout, carbon is being emitted when their food is being cooked and when a vehicle is transporting it to them. Though they might not be the ones cooking the food or driving the vehicle, their action of ordering it releases carbon dioxide to the atmosphere, ultimately creating repercussions on the environment. Other examples of indirect emissions include buying clothes, technology, shoes, books, jewelry, etc. However, some of these purchases are needed in order to survive, which is why it is important to set boundaries on what things to buy.

Additionally, according to Environmental Science Journal For Teens' article titled, "More stuff: more climate change?," the majority, 25%, of the greenhouse gas emissions in the atmosphere come from transportation. Transportation in cars, busses, airplanes, etc. are examples of direct emissions—when a product is used and carbon immediately emits from it. Most people do not need to ride in singular cars to get to and from places, but they need to get to work, home, etc. A solution for this would be to use public transportation to reduce the number of vehicles in use and fossil fuels being burned. Another solution could be to ride bikes. By casting away the desire to drive individually, a person can decrease the carbon emissions they contribute to the atmosphere.

Overall, it is important to not be extravagant in purchases as they have impacts on the environment, whether they are direct or indirect.

I completely agree. I think people should start learning the difference between a want and a need. It is completely normal like you said to want other things besides your necessities, but I do think it's important to start thinking before you act. I would also like to add to your post that people should start doing research and realize that buying less is better than buying "green" which I feel is very important because people think that by buying green they're helping out the environment.

In general, the more wealthy someone is, the higher chance that they will consume more goods, which impacts carbon emissions. When someone can afford to do so, the more shopping, eating, and travel they will partake in throughout their lives. Additionally, consuming and purchasing items results in the emissions of greenhouse gases during their production and transport. According to the article "More stuff = more climate change?" by the Environmental Science Journal Teens, wealthier countries, such as the United States and Luxembourg have some of the largest carbon footprints in the world. This is directly because citizens have more money to consume more goods that contribute to climate change. Since these countries have the funds, they must advertise and promote more sustainable lifestyles. This could include growing one's own food, thrift shopping, or reusing water bottles. In conclusion, people need to consider how to reduce their carbon footprint, and this could come in many forms, the main one being less consumption.

Many people don't think before they purchase. It is rare for people to think to themselves, "Do I really need this, or is this just an impulse buy?" Taking simple steps such as asking yourself a question like that is a way you can take action and do your part to help the environment.

Buying big quantities of items drives climate change. Whether that is ordering things online, buying in-store, or purchasing a large quantity of an items can hurt the environment. In 2015, a study showed that the production and use of household goods and services were responsible for 60 percent of worldwide greenhouse gas emissions. That is wealthier countries create more impact per person. (How Buying Stuff Drives Climate Change, 2020) There are many carbon dioxide emissions from transporting and manufacturing these items. Most forms of transportation burn fossil fuel while in use, therefore, buying items that you may not really need is unnecessary, and harmful to the environment.

Many people believe that being rich is being able to afford and own excessive amounts of things, such as cars, clothing, ect. However, many of these people do not realize that living that lifestyle negatively affects the environment, increasing your carbon footprint and releasing more greenhouse gasses into the air. Greenhouse gases are gases that contribute to the greenhouse effect, absorbing infrared radiation and emitting it back to earth. Carbon dioxide is one of the most common greenhouse gases, and the amount you release due to the consumption of fossil fuels  and other things that emit carbon is what contributes towards your carbon footprint, which is the amount you release. Society has created an admiration towards people who mass consume items and flex their wealth by buying many unnecessary things and in result contributing massively towards climate change. National Geographic wrote an article about how Earth suffers as consumerism spreads, with a massive increase in things such as cars and factory farms causing a spike in greenhouse gas emissions as automobiles and farm animals belch them into the air. The same article also reveals how consumerism does not increase happiness or health in humans, which means that excessive consumption does not help humans any more than it does the Earth. So, now you may be wondering, what do I do to avoid the typical consumer lifestyle and prosper as minimalistic as possible, helping not only save money on excessive expenses but also help reduce my carbon footprint? Well, one way you can help is by thinking before you buy, and making sure you need every product that you purchase. This will help you reduce your spending to more important things while also helping reduce your carbon emissions, direct or indirect. Another way to help is by taking a bike ride or walking where you do not need to drive. For example, if you live one block away from a grocery store that you normally drive through, walking there instead of driving can limit your emissions from burning fossil fuels in your car. These are only a few of the countless examples of ways we as people can help to reduce our carbon emissions and help fix the mistakes we made in the past, one step at a time.

Works Cited:

Mayell, Hillary. "Earth Suffers as Consumerism Spreads." National Geographic, 11 January 2004, https://www.nationalgeographic.com/envi … th-suffers. Accessed 5 May 2022.

Growing up we never really knew the difference between want and need. When you were a kid did you NEED the candy or did you WANT the candy? Now that you're older do you NEED new clothes or do you WANT them? We have to think before we act and keep in mind that we're hurting our environment. Buying fewer goods reduces our pollution, waste, and greenhouse gas percentages. Instead of buying many low-quality clothes buy fewer clothes of good quality. Not only does it save recourses but it also saves more textile waste from ending up in landfills. It is also proven that buying less is better than buying "green". Buying less is not only better for our environment but better for our happiness as well. An article called "Science Daily," says, "A new study found that people who consume less are happier than those who engage in other pro-environmental consumer behaviors, like buying environmentally friendly products." This quote really shows what I was talking about. I think that if studies are showing that buying less makes people happier then we should all start doing it. If studies are showing these facts then we should also keep in mind that we should think before we act, we should ask ourselves if it's a WANT or a NEED.

I get a new phone once every 3 years. I feel that I did need the newest model because 3 years is kind of a long time. I don't think I'm damaging the environment by getting a new phone so I don't bother or care to think about the environment in this specific situation. Lastly, I'm not addicted so there's nothing to worry about.

Overconsumption isn't as simple as just buying too many of one thing. Overconsumption can be ones lifestyle that is based on over consuming in the pursuit of comfort or happiness. People feel that having more things makes them happier, however they don't realize that these things often are packed in plastic and many other harmful materials that contribute to global warming. Sometimes this over consuming can root from a neglect for the health of the environment and just wanting to have a lot of things, or can come from being ignorant about the effects mass consumption has. Evidence from "More stuff=More climate change," by Environmental Science Journal for Teens, states that consumption is dependent on wealth and those who are more wealthy more often have a larger carbon footprint. This evidence shows that those who are financially able to consume more, do and are often ignorant and or not caring about their impact on the planet. Lastly, something any of us can do to help stop over consumption is to support brands that have less or eco friendly packaging and to spread the word about overconsumption and it's negative effects.

Oftentimes, people wonder if money can buy happiness. While this may be true in some cases, using money to buy higher quantities of various items unfortunately contributes to a larger carbon footprint. A carbon footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide and methane, produced to support human activities. Differences in carbon footprint are caused by differences in purchases. According to "More Stuff = More Climate Change?" published by "Environmental Science Journal for Teens," those who are high-income generally have larger carbon footprints as they make more purchases and travel more frequently by plane and by car, leading to more greenhouse gas emissions. Each item we purchase releases gas emissions during production, transport, and use. To reduce our carbon footprints, we can buy less stuff. This includes choosing to not buy extra shoes or cars, borrowing appliances when possible, cutting down on airplane trips, taking public transportation, and eating locally produced fruits and vegetables. It is up to all of us to decrease our carbon footprints and save our planet!

Oftentimes, people wonder if money can buy happiness. While this may be true in some cases, using money to buy higher quantities of various items unfortunately contributes to a larger carbon footprint. A carbon footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide and methane, produced to support human activities. Differences in carbon footprint are caused by differences in purchases. For example, those who are high-income generally have larger carbon footprints as they make more purchases and travel more frequently by plane and by car, leading to more greenhouse gas emissions. Each item we purchase releases gas emissions during production, transport, and use. To reduce our carbon footprints, we can buy less stuff. This includes choosing to not buy extra shoes or cars, borrowing appliances when possible, cutting down on airplane trips, taking public transportation, and eating locally produced fruits and vegetables. It is up to all of us to decrease our carbon footprints and save our planet!

One of the most important aspects of climate change and solving it is overconsumption. Personal purchases was one of the lowest divisions in my carbon footprint, and I believe it is because I have learned how to base value. A want versus a need sounds more simple in writing than it is when purchasing. The way I count if I really need an item starts with how forgettable it is. If you don't purchase it, will you wish you had in a week from now? If you imagine you will, the item probably has value to you, and while not necessarily a need, it puts the purchase at greater use. Another measure I recommend taking is considering what you already have. If you want to buy a shirt that you like, buy you have 15 other shirts, is it a necessity? For example, Ngan Li writes in his article for princeton.edu that one cotton shirt take 3,000 liters of water to create. So when you are planning to buy an item, remember to consider that everything has an impact on the world and this is the only world we have.

Source:
https://psci.princeton.edu/tips/2020/7/ … nvironment

I think we buy more things that we really need and this has a serious environmental impact. We should stop buying things that we don't need only because it's cool or is it fashionable.

I totally agree with you. Specially we Europeans have this necessity to buy unnecessary things because some random advertisement told us that we need some useless new high-tech object. When I want something I usually ask myself if I really need it or if I'm acting impulsively.

We don't really need to buy something, but we want to buy something. We can find all we need in nature (food, water...). However, in our society everything is turned to money and we have to go the supermarket or other shops. In shops, everything is made to attract people to sell and earn more money, so buying only what we need is complicated. We are destroyng our planet because what we want is more important for us than what we need.

I really like this idea of what we really need vs what we want. I agree with you on the level of buying things just cause they look cool or just cause you are into that type of thing, but it really does affect our environment. It's not just products that look cool and there's not really any use for them, but there are products people buy every single day that just ruin the environment such as plastic. Plastic can not only kill animals, but it also affects global warming. It uses these chemicals which come from gas, oil, and coal. However, you can prevent this by using items such as reusable water bottles, and reusable grocery bags. Using this is another step toward getting closer to helping our earth become a more clear environment.

https://friendsoftheearth.uk/plastics#: … en%20coal).

https://www.inspirecleanenergy.com/blog … nvironment

I totally agree with you. I also think that people need to switch their plastic items for some more eco friendly, reusable or recyclable ones. On the other hand, the plastic items are a lot more economic and it might be harder for low class families to make that change. But, whoever has the ability to consumme less plastic should do it.

Do we really need all the dams? I believe that we do not because there are problems that are caused by them. Dams are bad for the fish, water plants, environment, and more. Some things that they help would be the energy. In this case, we do not need all of these dams.

Multiple teenagers love driving there cars to school. But, do they really NEED to drive there car to school if there only 2 miles away? Of course, then they think, “I’m so close to school that I barely burn any carbon.” When really 10 times a week driving two miles to school is 20 miles each week to school and back. That adds up and they burn, in one week, 8.8 kgs of carbon dioxide. So, during the school year they burn 369.6 kgs of CO2. If they took the bus and lets say the bus has 20 kids on it then 20 kids instead of 1 would emit 369.6 kgs of carbon dioxide per year. Take the bus! Therefore, I don't NEED a car I might want one but for now I will take the bus and maybe in the future I will get an electric car.

I agree with you but I think that you have to take into consideration why some kids use their cars instead. A lot of places have rough environments in which the bus smells like weed and vape, and the kids are so loud you feel like your eardrums will burst. This is not to say you are wrong - I certainly agree that using the bus would be more better in terms of climate change. It is just a thought that I wanted to share.

I think this is a really good question. If the schools could invest in better buses like electric buses for example or better gas mileage. The bus that I ride to school has a gas mileage of about 6 to 8 miles per gallon I think we should all take this into account when deciding to ride the buses.

Buses are almost always going to be more efficient than a car when it comes to traveling to school. The other thing to think about is the capacity of a bus. Some bus routes NEED kids to be driving because there simply isn't enough room for them on the bus. This isn't a big issue and certainly isn't very common in my area, but with COVID I believe there were some congested routes. Another thing to think about is open campus. The last thing a high schooler wants to do is go to school and open campus is their only way to get out. The main reason most kids drive to school is so they can leave earlier/arrive later, and leave during a study hall. All told, this is an issue that plagues schools across the country and should be addressed, but there may be some hindrances along the way.

You know, I’ve never actually thought about this! I see seniors driving their cars to school almost every single day, but I never considered this. I wonder, though, when the emissions of bus travel are more than the emissions of car travel. I mean, if a bus has to go out of it’s way—a LONG WAY out of it’s way, that is—just to pick a child up, would it be better if that child just drives than if the bus had to go very far off it’s original course to pick them up? Not saying I don’t agree with you. I think you made a wonderful point that I’ve never really thought of! But, in all scenarios, would it really be the best solution?

I strongly agree with the bus idea since my school provides multiple options for students who need a ride to school or home without using their own vehicles or cars. For example, students can be taken to an electric train station in the Bay Area known as BART and be transported to the station the school picks them up which reduces CO2 going into the air. Parents or students can drive themselves to their local BART station or ride their bike or electric scooter to the train station which is another method of transportation to reduce carbon emissions from rising. If people don’t want to take the bus, people can stop idling their cars from creating more carbon emissions. The article Idling Reduction for Personal Vehicles by the U.S Department of Energy states that idling for more than 10 seconds produces more emissions that add on to smog and climate change than having to stop and start the engine. Researchers found that people's personal cars can produce up to 30 million tons of CO2 every year just by idling. When people drive their car, it helps their engine find its operating temperature quicker than just having it parked and idling it. When people are in the line at the bank, pharmacy, or fast food restaurant they can turn their car off instead of idling it as well. Switching to a hybrid electric car would benefit the environment because the car’s engine stops going when the car is stopped for 10 seconds to a long period of time. Lastly, instead of texting people in the car, people can just completely shut the car off. Whether it’s taking an electric train to get to the school bus or not idling a personal vehicle can help reduce carbon emissions.

I strongly agree with the bus idea since my school provides multiple options for students who need a ride to school or home without using their own vehicles or cars. For example, students can be taken to an electric train station in the Bay Area known as BART and be transported to the station the school picks them up which reduces CO2 going into the air. Parents or students can drive themselves to their local BART station or ride their bike or electric scooter to the train station which is another method of transportation to reduce carbon emissions from rising. If people don’t want to take the bus, people can stop idling their cars from creating more carbon emissions. The article Idling Reduction for Personal Vehicles by the U.S Department of Energy states that idling for more than 10 seconds produces more emissions that add on to smog and climate change than having to stop and start the engine. Researchers found that people's personal cars can produce up to 30 million tons of CO2 every year just by idling. When people drive their car, it helps their engine find its operating temperature quicker than just having it parked and idling it. When people are in the line at the bank, pharmacy, or fast food restaurant they can turn their car off instead of idling it as well. Switching to a hybrid electric car would benefit the environment because the car’s engine stops going when the car is stopped for 10 seconds to a long period of time. Lastly, instead of texting people in the car, people can just completely shut the car off. Whether it’s taking an electric train to get to the school bus or not idling a personal vehicle can help reduce carbon emissions.

https://afdc.energy.gov/files/u/publica … hicles.pdf

Many people want to buy the latest fashion trends, whether they need them or not. An issue that plagues modern-day society is fast fashion. Fast fashion is the mass distribution of cheap and low-quality clothing, most of it being made in sweatshops. Several companies have revolutionized the fast fashion movement, such as Romwe, Shein, and Forever 21. Fast fashion pieces are created by workers earning incredibly low wages, this being reflected in the quality of the clothing. Most people who buy fast fashion do it for the current trends. Unfortunately, once these trends are out of style, the clothes are thrown away or donated. Textile waste is incredibly damaging to the environment, and one way or another, these thrown away or donated clothes will end up in a landfill. Instead of buying dozens of cheap pieces, I suggest buying a few timeless and ethically made pieces instead. Thrifting is also an ethical way to shop. Supporting fast fashion has damaging consequences, and the only way to stop the companies responsible is to stop purchasing from them.
https://www.nytimes.com/2019/09/03/book … lanet.html

I agree completely, the rate at which fashion trends change and the wasteful way in which we buy simply to match said trend has incredibly harsh effects on the environment. We must curb our need to fit in to the newest trend to save the environment.

I completely agree. Through social media i have seen many videos of ‘hauls’ from a brand called Shein. Shein has very cheap and not great quality clothing that is definitely not sustainable. This brand has become very popular because it keeps up with teen fashion trends and is also affordable for the age group. People are spending hundreds of dollars on this low-quality clothing that will fall apart easily and get thrown out. I feel like with social media people are unable to grasp the idea of sustainability. Also Since the clothing trends shift so quickly clothing waste increases. All of your points are absolutely true, but its hard to get the younger generation with less money on board with buying sustainably. Thrifting is a great option because its affordable and can have some ‘trendy’ clothing too. Fast fashion is clearly a section people aren’t educated enough in.

Very true. I see a lot of people buy clothing because it looks nice or it will loo good in this outfit and buy the a nod many other clothes just to where the clothes they already had. I personally buy clothes for comfort and where them until they’re either destroyed or unwearable and if i have something i don’t need and don’t wear i donate it for others to use so it doesn’t go to waste. I believe if we as a species can overcome these trends and being cool by wearing what others wear and just dressed for yourself things would be better in that regard.

I agree with you. Nowadays people like to buy new clothes every month on Internet. Sometimes the prices of the clothes are too high for the values. And people just waste their money for nothing. They could use recycle.

I agree with all of you. The over-consumption pollutes a lot and in addition, it makes children work in awful conditions. They risk their life, their health to make clothes for people who want to buy trendy clothes at a cheap price. They don't realize that more than polluting, they are breaking lives just to have a cool dress, t-shirt. Moreover, when the clothes don't fit, they can send it back and it makes more pollution by travelling. We have to talk about fast-fashion brands to our friends to aware them. We have to stop buying these brands!!

I completely agree with everyone, and because of the overconsumption of social media there are new fashion trends every week. Fast fashion is huge and most people have purchased at least a few clothes from fast fashion brands. Huge companies like Fashion nova or Shein have low-quality clothes that are extremely bad and wasteful for the environment. The workers creating these clothes work in unhealthy conditions working with toxic chemicals, no breaks, crowded factories, low ventilated spaces and so much more. On top of that, they are barely being paid. These fast fashion brands can be very secretive and shady about what their working conditions are and how much they pay their employees. Supporting high-end eco-friendly brands can sometimes be expensive but they are worth it because of the quality and you know you aren't harming the environment. For a less expensive option, I suggest thrifting, there are thrift stores everywhere and you do have to do some searching but once you find something you love you won't stop thrifting. You can also donate clothes that can help low-income families and it's better for the environment. If thrifting is too much searching I suggest websites like Depop or Thred up, which are online consignment stores. They have a variety of different clothes and it's so easy to buy things from actual sellers. I have bought clothes from both websites numerous times and I'm never disappointed. Changing how you shop is no easy task but if you find a website that you love you will never switch back.

Resources:
https://www.sixthtone.com/news/1008472/ … ion-empire

https://www.eco-stylist.com/its-time-to … ant-shein/

L

Everyone needs to recycle or else they are lame as shit.

I get a new phone probably every 2 or 3 years. Each time I did get a new phone it did need to be replaced. I always wait till my phone doesn't work to get a new one. The environment is impacted because each time a new phone is made it involves factories releasing metals in the air. I think you can break your addiction by being able to realize that you don't need a new phone and yours is perfectly fine.

I totally agree with this. Getting a new phone very frequently can be bad for the environment because the production of batteries. To make batteries there is a lot of mineral mining in the earth to get what you need to make batteries. Strip mining the earths crust is very bad for the life living in those areas. They have to cut lots a trees down to do this. The bad part is trees absorb lots of carbon so cutting them down to mine is very bad.

To reduce your impact on the environment, you should buy a reconditioned phone which has been already used. Moreover, it cost less expensive !

In my opinion, especially in the last century, our purchases are guided by companys.
Thinking about how fast fashion changhe... To follow  our society' standarts you need to buy new clhotes every months. Maybe you don't new stuff, but we keep up buying clhotes, jewels or the lastest iphone model. Society confuses us about wants or needs. Before buying we should understand what are our needs and our wants.
this doesn't mean that new technologies are not useful, we just don't need the lastest model of every object.

I agree. I think it is crucial to discern whether something is a need or want. Modern-day society is heavily driven by consumerism. Fashion and technology trends constantly shift, and society pushes individuals to have the latest and greatest. Consistently buying whatever is trending certainly harms the environment.

I agree that humans are purchasing products that are devastating our environment without even knowing it. Due to the social standard where you have to have the best products.

I agree that humans are purchasing products that are causign devastating  impacts on our environment without even acknowledging it. Because of the social standard where you have to always be on the top of all social productions- clothes, phones, etc.

I agree, furthermore a lot of the people who don't do this are made fun of for not having the latest iphone for example.

I think the difference of want and need is very clear when you observe different cultures and living conditions in different country’s. In more industrialized country’s we often see people spending a lot more money on different things that they want. When we compare this to a much poorer country with less resources they rarely buy new things and when they do it is something that they need. The levels of want and need are very different. For example, a kid more say the United States might want a new iPad or something, but a kid from a country in Africa might want a soccer ball made of rags. And all these different levels and different wants and needs is based on and controlled by wealth

Finlay I totally agree, to add to this I think that a good idea would be for people in industrialized countries like the US to start learning how to make sacrifices such as no car or no television and a smaller less luxurious house so that then in the US nobody would be polluting the world we all live in because people in Africa have to suffer from climate change even though they are not polluting. Want and Need is such an important idea.

Want and Need- Many people don’t think about purchases. They feel they need something when in reality, it is a want. Cutting down on purchases for big corporations such as amazon or Shein which use millions of gallons of water a day in their mass productions can significantly lower one’s individual carbon footprint. If many people do it, production demands will lower therefore lowering the carbon emissions of mass production. Humans should focus on what they need and cut down on thoughtless purchases for wants.

Hello ! I also think that all of you are right , because  people do need to understand the difference between what they want and need . Needing and wanting are two different things like when you see this item at the store , that you think that you really want and then you think that you must need it to use it , but you don't think that you will maybe use it one time then you would want to get rid of it . People should maybe think before they buy something and what will they do with this specific item in the futur .

In my opinion, many people have to start to understand the difference between need and want.
Many times it happens to buy some things that we don't really need, but we buy them just for the sake of having them, this in my opinion is a big waste

I agree with this. When buying clothes sometimes I realize that I’m doing just fine with the amount of clothes I have, and I have no need for more. At the same time, I think of other people who buy new clothing much more often than me, so I think that as long as my footprint is less than theirs, I’ll be all good.

I agree with both of you, yes people have to understand the difference between want and need. Because needing something is when you see for example an item and you like it you will buy it for fun but when you need something you will buy it because you will use it everytime for something;
I reuse the clothes example, if you have enough clothes why do you want to buy new? It's the same thing for shoes, if your shoes are not damaged why buying new ones ? This is overconsummation and we need to stop it. This is a big waste.

Hello ! I also think that all of you are right , because  people do need to understand the difference between what they want and need . Needing and wanting are two different things like when you see this item at the store , that you think that you really want and then you think that you must need it to use it , but you don't think that you will maybe use it one time then you would want to get rid of it . People should maybe think before they buy something and what will they do with this specifique item in the futur .

specific *

People all around use money for irrelevant things. For example, some kids want a new phone or laptop even though they don't need it and some people might actually need it but can't afford it. I think we should be more considerate and recognize a want and a need, just because we want something we need to really consider if we will be using it in a couple of years or even needing it.

This is a great point! I completely agree with you! I believe kids grew up with the mindset that they can get whatever they want and not suffer any consequences, the earth later on has to suffer it for them. This is extremely inconsiderate, you explained this very well!

I agree with this! Many people raise their children with whatever they want, they are their children, but the harm it does to the planet is essential. Children should learn the right ways of throwing away waste.

Good point! Many children grow up to believe that they can get whatever they want when they want it. This isn’t a good mindset because it can eventually cause harm and damage to the planet. It is important to learn and recognize the difference between a want and a need and what effects it can cause.

I agree! I think if we can sort the difference between wants and needs we can figure out what will be best for us and the planet. I also agree that raising and teaching children the difference between the two will make a huge impact. If we can sort through and make decisions based off of that thinking, will better the environment and ourselves in the long run.

The latest tech is a want. It only progresses us into the future if we truly are moving into the future. If it is just pulling us back and ensuring that we don’t have a future then it is risky and unnecessary.

This is a big factor where I am from, people often buy things that they want and its not environmentally friendly. These items can be harmful to our carbon footprint. There is no reason to purchase these items that are environmentally costly if it doesn't benefit us. https://resources4rethinking.ca/en/reso … s-vs-wants

I agree about this being a big factor from where you're from as where I'm from it is the same.

I agree with this, many people do buy what they want most of the time and when they do it's not environmentally friendly like buying a high-gas-powered car instead d of going with the electric or low gas-powered car.

I agree with you. I often find myself wanting to buy unnecessary items, and if i purchase them i regret it, however It’s a hard thing to control because not all people are not buying unnecessary items because they don’t care about the environment, I think it mostly comes down to unawareness. I believe Educating people about purchases would great to helping reduce waste. However I am aware that there are some people don’t care if their purchase is environmentally reasonable.

I agree and I think there is a big culture of consumerism in this generation. Companies are always pushing products and trends which influence what people feel like they need to buy. Especially with fast fashion, trends are very short lived and people are always wanting more things which leads to a lot of overconsumption because most people want to be on trend and to have what the rich or popular people have. That, added to the runaway capitalism controlling this country, contributes to the constant mass production and mass spending and buying that in turn contribute to rising carbon footprints. I also think that there is a behavior deficit because people know that what they do is bad for the environment, but they either ignore it or simply don’t care, and if we want to reduce the waste that comes with overconsumption, we need to emphasize more on environmental safety than trend following.

I agree with you I also think is peoples lack of knowledge is a factor, if they were more educated on how their purchase would effect the climate they would steer away or at least try to find a better option. I found myself recognizing things i had and bought thinking they were okay were in fact bad for the environment and now either find new uses and stop buying them for find a different and better solution.

I believe having the latest technology is a luxury. To be able to buy and replace last year’s iPhone or ThinkPad computer in order to make room for the newest editions is, I think, a sign of privilege that is typically awarded to richer countries and homes. In that sense, I see buying new technology as a want, not a need, though if a guardian buys their kid some form of technology without prompting, the purchase can’t be placed on the child’s shoulders.
However, I would say that buying the latest technology out of job-related necessity could be considered a ‘pass.’ If your job is being a software developer or a data scientist, chances are, you want up-to-date computers and other technology to work.
Although, it’s hard to see these purchases one hundred percent justified. I’ll be completely honest: I don’t know much about software developers or data scientists, so I can’t speak to the relevance of their careers. But in my mind, they aren’t as influence in society as someone who produces food for the general public (though, currently, someone who knows how to code or can create more technology is becoming more pivotal in society as the age of technology accelerates).
Lastly, the constant purchase of new technology (especially in China, South Korea, America, of Japan [https://tech2sports.com/2021/09/01/here … ire-world/]) is taking its toll on the environment. Although technology can work to serve humankind (cars, electricity, etc.), emissions of coal and other fossil fuels because of these are speeding up effects of climate change. (For more on these effects, try: https://www.arcadia.com/energy-101/reso … te-change)

Hi, i'm Martina.
I think technology has been fundamental in recent years.
In my opinion, recent technology is a want.
I don't often change my phone, only when it breaks.
I'm sincere in buying technologies i don't think abouts enviromental impact.
When i can i try to fix it.

I agree with you, new technology like a brand new Iphone is a want. Usually it comes with similar features from the old one. People also like to buy things that are trendy even if it's not even needed.

I agree with you too!
People may stop buy trendy things becuase they are useless if we don't need them. We may save money and avoid spend them on useless things, so we can save the environmental impact and maybe invest them on something more usefull.

I completely agree with you and disagree with you. Technology is really important to our society today. Our world basically runs on some sort of technology so its a huge need. On the other hand, it can also be a want, buying a new phone every time one comes out just to be trendy, is a big want. But, I believe technology is more a need than want, because our society runs on technology, like for example new air cleaners is a need for less power wasting and air cleaning. And that’s amazing for our environment. In all id say technology is a need and a want, but our world needs technology and we need it more than we want it.

I’ve noticed that many students in cities have lower footprints due to transportation. Many people in America, who don’t live in cities can’t walk everywhere, and have to drive most places. If town put in sidewalks linking towns together, more people would start walking places. This would also get people healthier. For places that can’t put in sidewalks, they should really push for people to carpool.

Is technology truly necessary for the average person to live a regular life? The simple answer is no; people do not need a cellphone or television to live a regular life. After all, people have been living without the internet for millennia. The internet has only been around since the '80s and human civilization has always thrived.

On the other hand, because we have the internet, humans have reached even higher heights of life. Ever since the introduction of the internet in 1983, technology has been revolutionizing the lives of humans around the world. The average person has the entire world's knowledge at their fingertips just by having a cellphone and access to the internet. If you wanted to know something, it would take maybe 30 seconds to find what you want. The advancement of technology gave access to a world of knowledge to people without access to a library.

Communication is so readily available to everyone with a cellphone. Let's say that there is a crumbling bridge in your neighborhood; someone could take a picture, post it on social media, and everyone in that area would be aware of the danger and avoid the structure altogether.
Technology may not be necessary to live a normal life but even just the tiny screen in your back pocket revolutionizes a way of life - a life of ease.

The advancement of common technology is having an impact on the environment because companies need physical materials to produce these gadgets. To make the screens, companies need a specific type of sand to be made into glass. To make the casing, companies need carbon, special metals, and various plastics. Overproduction of these gadgets puts a strain on the material sources; the places where Earth can make and provide these materials to us. Part of the reason companies make so many is because we are not advanced enough to make a device that everyone can have that would not break or wear out over time. The other reason is corporate greed. Apple is notorious for launching models of new iPhones and releasing updates to hinder the performance of pre-existing models, forcing the consumer to buy the newer model.

On the other hand, we use technology to better the environment. We have created the commercial use of solar panels to convert the sun's rays into electricity - effectively lowering the amount of coal electric companies have to burn for energy every year. We've also innovated the electric car. Just by switching from an only gas car to a hybrid (gas and electric), you are making a huge difference; massively reducing the impact on the amount of fossil fuel carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere. Even looking up ways you can reduce your carbon footprint on the internet helps because you are educating yourself on how you can be better for the environment - all you have to do is act on that knowledge.

I believe that technology is a need in today's society. Having any sort of technology started with wanting it; as such with the introduction of television but in the time we are living in now, just having access to the internet is a must-have. Knowledge is power, and it spreads extremely fast; if you do not have access to the internet, you will be left behind in a matter of weeks.

References

Allen, M. (2019, October 28). Technological influence on society. BCTV. Retrieved February 18,
2022, from https://www.bctv.org/2019/11/07/technol … fluence-on-
society/#:~:text=Technology%20affects%20the%20way%20individuals,other%20on%20a%20daily%20basis.&text=It's%20made%20learning%20more%20interactive,learning%20and%20have%20trouble%20with.

Austin, D., & Macauley, M. K. (2016, July 28). Cutting through environmental issues:
Technology as a double-edged sword. Brookings. Retrieved February 18, 2022, from
https://www.brookings.edu/articles/cutt … ology-as-a-
double-edged-sword/

Great post!

A lot of people on the Wants and Needs forum talk about the pros and cons of technology, and our society's increasing dependence on digital devices.

Most young people today do not know a world without mobile phones. My question is:

Should schools have -as part of classes- discussions about responsible use of technology?  Does your school do that?  What should such discussions entail? 

In the era of COVID we have seen our phones become tools for the rapid spreading of misinformation.  Here in the USA the same thing happened with lies about the recent presidential election (2020). 

Do you think its time this became an explicit part of education to dicsuss these issues?

Yes, I think we should have a conversation regarding the responsible use of technology.  I think there should also be a discussion regarding the use of materials and the lack of recycling of those materials.

Having the latest technology is both a want and a need in my opinion. I feel like buying the latest iPhone every time one comes out is unnecessary. However, today's technology is always improving, so you're going to have to replace your phone soon no matter what. I’m in the middle here, what do you guys think?

I agree with you technology is both a want and a need. I also think buying the latest iPhone every time it comes out is unnecessary because they all do the same thing; they add more cameras. I believe there are more reasons than technology improving on why people would get new phones or even get a phone in the first place. Also, people like to get the latest iPhone because they want to show it off. I agree that sooner or later you will have to replace your phone because it is going to stop working, but it doesn’t have to be the newest one.

I agree with all the points you showed.

Having the latest technology is a want but sometimes it can also be a need. For example, a lot of people including myself want new phones or technology for style. But new technology like new air conditioners or new air cleaners is a need for less power wasting and air cleaning. So I believe that having new technology is both a want or need.

In my opinion people spend more than they should. I am the first to buy objects that i don’t need and i don’t pay attention to the environment. Many times we buy objects, devices only because we feel the pressure of socials,adverts amd other friends.

I agree we do seem to all not think about the environment when buying but more about our social life. We should definitely look more into how these devices are taking not only our money but our environment as well.

The latest technology that has sweeped across America is our smart phones. They continue to grow and advance but are they really something that we absolutely need or is it simply a want? I believe that our smartphones have become more of a need than a want over the past two years especially. We have been struggling against the Coronavirus that sent us out of schools, jobs, and had as all confined to our homes. Without our smartphones we would have struggled to stay in touch with our teachers and it would’ve been hard to continue our education as well. Below is a link that explains ways on why halving a smart phone helps those who are in school. https://www.cincinnati.com/story/news/l … h%20school.

Many people today are obsessed with technology and many, including myself, are buying new devices even if they don't really need them.
Sometimes i buy a new phone just because the other phone is out of style.
I should change my habits and buy only what is necessary.
I understood that if i keep buying unnecessary things, my impact will continue to grow.

I think that the humanity now spends much more than it needs because a lot of what we do ends up spoiling and apart from doing that we pollute a lot with the factories. For me, the best series is not doing so many things.

hi carlos, i completely agree with your opinion. i think that the factories create a lot of CO2 and they pollute the planet. they must be stopped.

Technology has become an obsession for most people. People saying they need the new Iphone or need the new Macbook. When in reality they don't need it, they might not even want it. There has become this social pressure to always have the newest and the best stuff, where if you don't have the best stuff you are somehow worth less.

Hi Hannatara. I completely agree with you. And I also think that this problem is accompanied by the limited useful life that companies give to electronic products. They should lengthen it. Also, in the case of mobile phones, we have the problem that in a relatively short period of time they become obsolete and many applications stop working.
We all have to become aware that we must change our lifestyle to guarantee the future of our children.
And we will succeed.
Sincerely,
Vanessa

Hello Hannatara, I wholeheartedly agree with your opinion. In our current society, being up to date with current technology has plagued individual opinion. People are so obsessed with being as up to date with technology as humanly possible. New devices and products are a huge status symbol and seen as an absolute necessity.

Hello Hannatara, it's true that you are saying. In the new society, people needs technology for all of his life, but really they don't need it, it's just to be advanced but we don't need it as much as we think. Definitely, we have an obsession with technological objects. We need to reduce it to have a nice planet for our children.

Technology, to me, is both a want and a need. I think teens need a phone because if they are out of the house, they need to let their parents know what time they are going home and where they are. They also need phones because if their parents pick them up from school or a friend's house, they need to know when to be ready. I use my phone when I need to search for something up and when my computer is dead for school. Now, technology is also wanted. Every teen wants a phone primarily for personal use. Everybody also wants a phone because it makes things easier for everyone. Teens want a phone, so they can talk to their friends whenever they want, even after school is over. Phones are also a  desire because they want things like games and social media on their phone. People also enjoy the newest technology to show it off, but eventually, the older it gets, you will have to replace your technology.

Having technology nowadays is a challenge. Many people think it's essential to have the newest items and devices. Each year 151.8 Million phones are thrown away—phones leach toxic chemicals. Just throwing them into a landfill isn't the right thing to do. These chemicals flow around in their air, and mammals inhale this air. These harmful chemicals are nasty for your lungs, digestive, and immune systems.

I believe we need new tech as well as want it because it makes the work easier for us therefore we want it and we need it because after looking at the world´s situation, new tech is needed to stop the damage and to help recover it.

You’re right. We need technology to do more serious things but we also want technology to make other things way easier for us.

I agree with your statement, new technology can really make things easier for us. New technology can make things such as farming, building, roofing, more efficient.

Is having the latest technology a want or a need?
I feel like its a need because we find our the latest things now and days and so its faster to get a hold of people and things  now and we have all these new things on the phone that we didn't have before and honestly help us noe like in life and this generation.

I agree with this, a lot of phones now can keep up with the cellular things and different apps that businesses do now unlike the phones back then, they can't hold that much data that phones do now.

I respectfully disagree. The reason why is because all that we've come to know is on our phones or whats happening in the digital world. I honestly think that phones have robbed a lot of time from us. It also becomes a very stressful and dark place that can mentally harm so many people and already has. I do understand how it has improved communication but it's also become a harrowing ordeal in the eyes of society.

Having the latest technology is a want rather than a need 90% of the time. A phone that has access to everything that's considered modern for our time and up to date is a reliable phone. The question is what’s considered as “modern” and “up to date?”

Does having the best modern technology a want or a need?
Having the latest technology to me is both a want and a need depending on how you view it.
Many people I know buy the newest technology to show off like buying a new iPhone 13 when they had an iPhone X. I believe that doing this is a want because they already have technology that is up to date and still works, but if you have an iPhone 6 and it works slow doesn’t really connect to cellular anymore then having the up-to-date technology would then be a need.

Having the latest technology is a want because older technology still works in today's environment. I get a new cell phone every year. No, I didn’t need a new model. Yes, I do consider the environmental impact on the purchases I make. If you are addicted, to break your addiction you need to be on your phone less and make fewer phone purchases.

I am on the fence about this topic I understand why it can be a want or a need in different cases.

Technology has become an obsession for most people. People saying they need the new Iphone or need the new Macbook. When in reality they don't need it, they might not even want it. There has become this social pressure to always have the newest and the best stuff.

Go less by transport and walk more

Reduce meat consumption

Reduce the use of electronic devices

Use less electricity and do things naturaly

Unplug chargers when not in use

Buy fewer applicances

Open the windows insted of turning on the fan

Wear second hand clothes

Use reciclable bags instead of new plastic ones

Recicle

Drink more water

Walk more

Hi Elias, I wish more people would follow your advice.

We, from our Spanish association, do everything we can to spread a more sustainable lifestyle among all...

Greetings,

Sincerely, Hector

Elias, these are some great tips to help be more zero waste , and conserve your carbon footprint. These are little things people can make a simple habit of doing.

I think having the latest technology is a want and a need.It's a need if your model of the technology is very old or just really needed a new one then okay. When your phone is in good condition still and up to date, at that point the latest technology is a want.

Is having the latest technology a want or a need?

How often do you get a new cell phone or mp3 player? Did you really need a new model? Do you consider the environmental impact of these purchases? If you are addicted, how can you break your addiction?

In my opinion it's a need to have latest technology. I get a new phone like every 2 or 3 years. No i didn't really need a new model. It's an environmental disaster, because building every phone requires the polluting extraction of irreplaceable elements like gold, cobalt or lithium.By not caring about newest model every time it comes out.

I feel like upgrading to the latest phone each time a new one comes out isn't a necessity. Sometimes it's okay to upgrade, just to get the newest updates on phones. I get a new phone maybe once every 6 years I would estimate. And it was a necessity since i was switching brands of phones or carriers.

Is having the latest technology a want or a need?
It is a want.
How often do you get a new cel phone or mp3 player? Did you really need a new model? Do you consider the environmental impact of these purchases? If you are addicted, how can you break your addiction?
I get a new phone every two years. I usually get a new phone when it starts acting up, but no I don't necessarily need a new model. While purchasing I don't really take into consideration of the impact it will have on the environment, which I will try to work on from now on.

It is a want, because you want it, don't really need it.

I think it depends, for instance getting a slightly upgraded phone is a want and not a need but let's say you don't have a phone at all and you buy one I would consider that a need.

• It breeds in containers with accumulated water around the home.
• Lays its eggs on the walls of containers with water, where they can survive for
months and are born by being submerged under water.
• They can lay dozens of eggs up to 5 times during their life.• The life cycle from egg to larva to pupa to flying adult mosquito is 8 days
And it happens in the water. The adult mosquito can live up to a month.
• Mosquitoes usually rest inside houses (closets, behind furniture, curtains)
and the females are the ones that bite.
• They are capable of flying hundreds of meters looking for containers to lay their eggs.
• A few mosquitoes per house are capable of producing large dengue epidemics.
• The dengue mosquito does not breed in ditches, drains, canals, wetlands, rivers or lakes, therefore it is useless
pour bleach on them. Chlorine is harmful to aquatic life.

When we're shopping, we might get carried away with the number of items we buy. We could see a really good deal or perhaps just be captivated by a certain object and tell ourselves something along the lines of "my life depends on whether or not I get it." But the waste we eventually cause with the clutter we give away causes a negative impact on the environment. By reusing the things we already have, we reduce our environmental impact. And by buying less, we not only help the planet—but we also leave a little more money in our pocket.

I 100% agree with this. I feel that I sometimes am guilty of this myself, for when I'm at the mall especially I'll often find myself getting carried away with buying things that I don't necessarily need. I think if people living in richer countries (such as the United States) could learn to live more simple and less lavish lifestyles, that would be a great step towards climate change, as it would mean that less products are being manufactured.

Buying what we need is environmental friendly, but at the same time, I notice that it is opposite what marketing is usually aiming for. Marketing is to make customers feel that they need something and create anxiety, leading them to buy the product to cure that anxiety. I wonder if marketing could be used to compensate for this harm to the enviroment.

Yeah, I also get caught up in shopping sometimes too. I like buying a lot of food from Costco because I'm always hungry, but I try to pay attention to how much I buy and where I buy it from.

I feel like this just goes without saying, yet we don't pay enough attention to this aspect of society and environmental disregard

I agree with this as well. I think a lot of the things that people buy are not actually necessary, and in many instances people will buy things that they only use once and then throw away or forget about.

We should consider our needs first before our wants. If you use your money on things you want, you can use your money more wisely for the things you need. When you do something, always ask yourself, "Do I need it? How is this going to benefit me or others?" This can help you become a better decision maker, especially for the environment and if you want to keep it healthy.

I think that buying the latest technology any time something new releases is definitely a want not a need. It's both bad for the environment and bad for your financial status to keep buying new devices even though your old ones still work and are up to date.

I agree, I feel that the need to buy the new model every year is a terrible for the environment and it makes so much unneeded e-waste for the planet. It's sad how phone companies almost encourage by making the releasing so many new phones so these people always buy them; Phone companies make so much money from the idea so it's not they are going to discourage it.

@LucasCa, I agree about the phone companies having to take some of the blame for the e-waste and carbon footprint by pushing out new phones all the time.  It would be great to hear about what these companies are doing to offset their carbon footprints or how they're doing something for our planet instead of just taking to make their products.  Bottom line it's about profit for them.  But I guess as long as we keep buying they'll keep making and selling.

yup i totally agree with this but sometimes you just gotta get a new one when your old one breaks or the battery health is just bad
i personally just dont understand why you would have to get the new model the moment it comes out. it just seems unreasonable to me as each phone creates a lot of co2 omissions when it was made

I definitely agree with this take. One thing that I can also agree with overall is the concept of wants versus needs, because for the most part the stuff that causes a ton of emissions is wants and not needs. If we learned to cut down on certain things we buy and use, and the ways that we travel, we could significantly decrease our footprint.

While constantly replacing your devices for the newest generation is arguable more of a want than a need, sometimes it is caused by unavoidable failures. So called "planned obsolescence" is when companies create their devices to last around three years, so that the warranty is expired and there is a newer, shinier, better version available. It isn't in the best interests of companies to have long lasting products that never need to be replaced, due to both rapid technological improvement and money, and it isn't in the best interests of the environment to have companies negligent of their environmental impacts in favor of profit.
https://www.bbc.com/future/article/2016 … ce-of-tech

People usually believe when they want something its necessary at the moment but its really not. Which could cause people people to confuse the differences between wants and needs. Most people have a desire to get new and popular stuff and consider it a need but its not it something you wants. A need on the other hand is something that is essential and necessary to you. But now a days people confuse both of these ideas. Which make them forget what they actually Need at the moment. Some examples of needs are food, electricity, water, a good working phone. So if you can differentiate a Want and Need you can help reduce the amount of money you spend all year long.

As I’m doing more research on our carbon footprints, I’m noticing and understanding that the difference between feeding our wants vs. our needs is very important. Most humans have a WANT to get whatever is “trendy” or “stylish” at the moment, so it is a repeating occasion where people are constantly spending their money on unnecessary items that could be thrown away in very little time. This could cause people to forget what they actually NEED. It is important to focus our purchases on items we need because this will not only help reduce the amount of money we spend, but it will help our planet by reducing the waste too.

As I’m doing more research on our carbon footprints, I’m noticing and understanding that the difference between feeding our wants vs. our needs is very important. Most humans have a WANT to get whatever is “trendy” or “stylish” at the moment, so it is a repeating occasion where people are constantly spending their money on unnecessary items that could be thrown away in very little time. This could cause people to forget what they actually NEED. It is important to focus our purchases on items we need because this will not only help reduce the amount of money we spend, but it will help our planet by reducing the waste too.

It's common knowledge that humans are selfish. We use our money for useless and irrelevant items, that we will no longer want in a few years. There are people who do not have access to anything and yet are still extremely grateful for all they have. I have noticed that the more someone is given the more they want. So when we go to buy something, we must truly consider whether that purchase is a want or a need. Will it still be useful in a couple years, will we still be interested in it in the future, will there be a time where we want to throw it away? Truly consider these things and then buy what you need. People buying things they want and not need, always ends up harming our ecosystem. That item will end up in the ocean, beaches, public areas, etc.

The difference between wanting something and really needing something is big. You can have 10 sweaters but still want the cool one you saw in the store... But then if you don't have any sweater at all, you need to buy yourself one. It is important to think twice before buying something you maybe think you need but really you don't. I have made that a rule for myself to not buy things that I don't need. It both saves me some money and helps the earth! it's a win-win situation:)

I totally agree, when i want something i first think about how often i would use it or how it would benefit me. I also try to consider the things i already have and bought. I try to not spend too much or buy too much unless i really really want it or need it. It helps because i don't spend too much on useless things and only really buy myself nice things a few times a year.

I agree, my brother sometimes just buys things that look cool which bothers me because after less than a day, he throws it away which is a big waste. For myself, I put a limit to how often I could buy something I want but don't really need.

I agree as well. I usually don’t purchase something, unless I do it by impulse. I try to cut down on buying things that I just “want”.

I totally agree, I believe we should think twice when buying things and determining wether we need those things or we just want it. It benefits both the earth and us.

That is a good idea, I think we should also open up the idea of shopping in thrift stores or stores where people can donate their own unneeded items and buy other ones you need. Many people see this as disgusting and weird, but I think it's a really good idea, I often find a lot more thing I'm interested in than goin shopping in stores for brand new items, there are also a lot more cool things in stores like these, and it's really not that dirty, you just need to wash it. Also I think siblings clothes are also really good, many people dislike getting clothes from their siblings, but I think getting clothes from my sister is really cool, we both have the same likings and style and her clothes are generally in good shape. Also when you live in a big family, a lot of personal things just fly out the window, you find yourself sharing literally everything with everyone. But overall, I think that we can have our wants by getting them in a better way.

I agree who needs 10 sweaters 1.don't waste the stock of sweaters which others might need 2. don't add to your life a hassle of "which sweater should I wear" and 3. don't waste money.

The problem is that a lot of people spend their money on what they want and not actually need it. For example, a kid sees a new toy that looks cool and tells their parent/s to buy it for them, and then very soon (maybe less than a week or month) they get bored of it and most likely throw it away. And then there's other people that have trouble making money who understand the importance of buying what you need and not want.

Having the latest tech is almost always a want. You don’t need the new iPhone X 15.7.9 Platinum-Gold. However, when it comes to safety, you always at least should have the new model. This is because safety is one of the biggest contributions technology has made to this world. Don’t waste your money on a PC gaming tower when you could be upgrading your fire suppression system. Use your finances to make you and your family and friends safer instead of spending them on entertainment. It may also be a need if you require a specific laptop with specific features for your job. Those may be the only two exceptions. Feel free to reply if you think of any more.

I agree but what if someone's profession is gaming?

Shopping for items that you desire is completely fine as long as you play your own role in recycling. If you buy glass, plastics, or paper items, you should recycle some of the parts after you are done using your item.

Before we purchase an item we must take some time to think about whether the item is necessary or whether we just like the thought of owning it

This is very true. We must take time to think if the item we’re buying is an item that we MUST buy. I think the reason people don’t already do this is because of all of the emotions they may have felt that morning, or that week, or that month; that make them think this item will make them feel better. Whether consciously or subconsciously, it’s a coping mechanism most people don’t realize is happening. We must find different ways to relax our mind and emotions and think about how our decisions will effect our planet and ourselves in general.

I agree with the comment above because it explains how emotions can get the best of us and can cloud out judgment. Just between Thanksgiving and New years, Americans produce about ten million tons of trash per week. Things like Christmas cards and packages are sent around the world adding to our landfills. Especially during the pandemic, there has been an increased number of impulse online purchases, that people thought would make them feel better. The amount of waste that is being produced is significantly higher than in the past.  If we want to be able to keep the environment that has kept us alive, we have to start thinking more about what we are buying and why we are buying it.  If we keep on the path that we are on now, we will end up destroying what we have worked so hard to create.

Agreed, many people buy items on impulse instead of really thinking through if they need it or not. I think more people need to have the mindset of making do with what we already have. Less of buying unnecessary items means less packaging wasted and thrown into the trash, which is always good for the environment.

Instead of online shopping why can't you just go in person? Online shopping uses a lot of packaging and wastes a lot of gas.

Additionally, we must use cars or other vehicles to go to the stores and it also makes air pollution :DD

Is the newest Iphone really necessary, can't you just stick with the 11? Us buying these newest creations over and over again effect the environment more than you know. Since they are mass-produced, they release many harmful chemicals into the air, and this isn't just one factory, it's many.

I agree with you, every year they release new iPhones that have very little changes to them, yet many people buy it. Yes, the creations of them harm the environment, they are getting rid of natural resources for basically the same thing every year. I believe that these companies should wait for a few years and then make phones that have a bigger differences on them, reducing a bit of the chemicals and the usage of natural resources.

Say you took a long, warm shower. Sounds nice right? But it also affects the environment. The water is wasted and contributes to droughts, and the heating system for your water may also release gases. The question is did you need the shower, or did you want it? Honestly, you needed that shower, it's nice to clean yourself. The real problem was what you wanted. You wanted the shower to be warm and you wanted it to be long. So next time you take a shower, consider taking a shorter one because it's what both you and our environment need.

Plastic is harming earth. Not everyone who uses plastic recycles it, which is even more harmful to Earth. We do not need to use plastic. There are many other materials we could use instead of plastic. It might be more work for us, but it is worth it. For example having to wash a glass plate but throwing away a plastic one.

Sometimes people always do what they want, like taking long showers. Many people just stand there and think about their life choices. I think we should do that without the running water. It help the Earth a lot, since everyone does it. Procrastinate out of the bathroom, not in it.

I agree. If people take shorter showers that would help the environment a lot.

Do you really need those new and trendy clothing every single month? Many people spend hundreds of dollars on things they don't even need. Sometimes, it'll even end up in the back of your closet and never touched again.

I believe having the latest technology is a want not a need, but I do believe that sometimes new technology is necessary sometimes, for example when it relates to safety of living and or to protecting necessary parts of machinery. Most people when they buy new technology it’s a new phone or a new form of entertainment, this is not necessary when most people already have phones or tablets that work perfectly fine and can still provide entertainment still.

I have noticed on youtube, it is popular to create videos showcasing large "hauls" of things you buy. Usually, the hauls consist of items that are not needs but rather wants, like clothing or toys. I came across a video the other day where this person unboxes thirteen new phone cases for their phone, so they can switch it out and match their outfit. I was so appalled at how they didn't consider that the phone cases are made of plastic and the toxic chemicals used to make them are harmful to our environment. I recommend not over purchasing from companies, and consider needs over wants. They probably felt that since they had enough money for that many phone cases, that it's okay to splurge, but thirteen for a new phone is pushing the limit.

Lowering consumption to reasonable levels can help lower waste and therefore lower carbon footprints. High consumption has a large effect on the environment, as there is a larger waste of natural resources.

Many people like myself do like getting the newest laptop or that shiny new phone with “the best camera ever”, but it might be a wiser decision to buy used or refurbished products. Many of these products have been lightly used and they can do almost everything that these phones can do. These can also apply to other things like buying cars and buying houses. If you buy a used car, you are still getting a fairly great car for a good price. Used houses are usually cheaper and still serves the same purpose. I think that us as a society should start trying to lean away from buying new and trying to buy used.

Personally, I don't really buy or receive that many new electronics, maybe once a year at the very most. I usually only buy a new electronic once something really piques my interest, which there isn't many of which that do. I try to make do with what I already have at home. Each electronic I get I usually keep for around 4 years or longer. I don't really have a need to buy every new thing that gets released, so I'll try to continue to have that mindset.

Lots of kids, nowadays want the latest phones or xbox. They would want five monitors and two new iphones. They really don't need it, especially since most kids get distracted and do worse in their school because of it. Parents should give them enough devices to do their homework and time to play. They could also give them certain amount of time to use them.

I agree. Phones distract kids from doing their school work.

Discussion Thread Name: Wants or Needs?
Your Post:
People say that individual footprints don’t matter, because corporations are the ones causing the vast majority of pollution. While it is true that corporations are the biggest culprits, our own actions absolutely play a part; we are the ones buying products from them, after all. The problem with individual actions lies in creating a large enough change in an amount of people that will actually have any impact. You might recycle plastic bottles, but there’s a reason Americans produce twice as much carbon as the global average. Reducing carbon emissions to a sustainable level requires more than minor actions; it would require fundamental changes in the consumerist culture of the US. Consumption is ingrained so deep in our society that our happiness is derived from a constant cycle of buying the newest technology and fashion. If we instead placed our highest priorities on the functionality of our purchases, we would solve the problem at its root.

Do we really need to use cars this much or could we walk, cycle or use public transportation more?

I see a lot of people where I live upgrading to the newest iPhone every year. In my opinion, this is unnecessary and wasteful, because most of the time the old phone works perfectly well. They only want the phone, but they act as if they need it.

Wanting something is way different then needing something. For starters when you need something your life depends on it. If you don't have it you won't live another day (that's pushing it a bit). Some examples are food, water, electricity, health care, and medicine. Now how do you tell the difference? For me every time I go out I ask myself if this is something I need, if it's something I will use and, if it's something that is useful to me. Wants aren't necessarily bad. Some examples of wants could be a new book, or a new jacket that was on sale. Wants can help provide joy and reassurance at times. So, next time you go to a store ask yourself the three questions. Do I need it, will I use it, and, is it useful. Now why should we think about this? What will this do? If we reduce the amount of wants then the emissions from what produces  them will decrease.

We don’t really need half of the stuff we have, but it makes us live comfortably and happily.

even though we dont necessarily need it to live we do need unnecessary things to maintain our happiness. If we would only buy things that we need to live we wouldn´t be happy and happiness is clearæy a necessary thing to live. Of course we have to weight out and say no to ourselves if we are buying too much of the things we dont need but they are still in a way necessary to our life quality.

I think some form of technology is important, but not the latest iPhone or computer. All it needs to do is work. Clothes are a need, but people should try to buy used clothing, you can find many gems in the goodwill and from local people online. I think it is often hard to resist buying things online from all over the world, but I try my best not to purchase too much, only needs.
I don't think too much about the consequences of buying a new smartphone, but now I definitely will.

I think that sometimes getting new technology is a need but most of the times it is a want. For example when you break your phone and you need to get a new one to stay in contact with people but people who just get a new phone whenever the new model comes out is a want and not a need. People rarely think about the carbon footprint of a new phone they just think of the size, camera, and color. So it really depends on your situation to determine if it is a want or need.

I don’t get new technology often, I usually stick with it for a while. Some people get the new model of phone or the new game console the second it comes out and that’s their choice I'm not bashing on them for that. What I think is you should get the new model of whatever and hold off for a few models OR buy a phone off of Facebook marketplace or Craigslist.

I agree with what you're saying, people buy new things as soon as possible even if what they have can still be used. I believe that this is a very unhealthy practice that humans have adopted. This should be applied, not just to electronics but to appliances in general. Unless, of course, this new technology doesn't release many or as much carbon than the model before, or it is less dangerous to use, then you should change it for your safety, and for the environment's safety. All in all, people should not get replacements for things that could still be usable.

From what I’ve seen, when buying the latest technology, the environmental impact of our actions is rarely the first thing to pop into peoples’ minds.  But, as the carbon calculator shows, these purchases can add up to a much bigger picture, one that affects the whole planet.  A problem that some people may face when trying to have a smaller carbon footprint is differentiating between what is a necessity and what is a luxury.  While many things that we buy are useful, we don’t necessarily need them to live our lives, and then there are the products we purchase purely for entertainment.  Telling the difference can be difficult, seeing as humans use so much technology without even thinking about it.  In order to live our best lives while still trying to reduce our footprint, it’s important to find a balance in which we can both enjoy life and not go overboard with unnecessary shopping trips that can harm the environment.

Having the latest technology, technically it can be both want or a need. A  video game can be a want, and you can play it for probably months or longer, depending on if you like it or not. But at some point, it would end up sitting in a corner on your table or desk. Something like a phone could be both because a phone is good for communicating with others such as your parents, family, friends, or even the authorities. And it also can provide entertainment and other kinds of stuff.

I agree. Technology can be technically both a want and a need, but I think when we buy new technology we need to ask ourselves if it is a want or a need. Also I think we don't need to buy new technology every time a new model comes out of a phone or iPad etc. when you have a perfectly good one (if you do) at home. I think we tend to tell ourselves that what they are buying is a need when it is actually a want.

There is a huge difference between wants and needs, something that you want could be a new shirt or some new headphones and a need is something like water, food, a home. Often, many of us confuse these two together and end up making un-intelligent or even regretful choices. An example of this could be that many people replace their electronic devices (especially cell phones) for the newest models because they think they need to stay up to trend. I think that people who do this should question themselves "do I really need this?", "Is my electronic device damaged or unusable that I need a new one?". Needs are something very important such as food, clean drinking water, a roof over your head, electricity, etc. We should learn to value and appreciate that we are fortunate enough to be able to meet our needs because many people can't. Next time you are at a store ask yourself if it's a need or a want.

This is a great point! I think that a lot pf people over look the fact that there choices in purchases might have a greater effect then the loss of money or the gain of a product. It is the smallest choices that can make a big difference like; buying used clothes instead of new, donating or giving away your old clothing instead of throwing it away. There are so many easy ways to save money, save other peoples money and reduce waist!
So, next time you go shopping and see a new shirt and the exact same used shirt pick the used one. (Make sure to wash it).

I agree with you. There are a lot of things that humans like or enjoy but don't necessarily need. For example some people love to take long showers, but by stopping or doing less of that action you could lower your carbon footprint considerably. So it comes down to you asking youeself do I need this long shower or new shirt, or do I want it? Just by asking yourself that question and being honest with yourself you could bring down your carbon footprint and probably save money too.

When we buy new technology, we as humans are usually not thinking about the environmental impact. We obsess over the newest technology, forgetting that it is still possible to live a productive life without owning the most advanced technology.

The objective would be to recognize, if I really need a product, or if I just want it. Nowadays the limit between the need and desire became so blurry. We no longer make the effort to make the difference between these two notions. And it's a serious issue because, our current society has become an overconsumption society, values such as resiliencence have disappeared. Human beings, no longer know how to abstain theirselves, indeed, the desire for a product has become the only reason to buy it, and our need for this object has completely passed in the background. We are in a society, where the desire is the sole motivation for consumption. And in the end this society, will end up to become autophagic.

The way we live as humans isn't sustainable, which is going to continue to hurt the environments we and other organisms live in. According to "Science Alert", "'In general, the more social thresholds a country achieves, the more planetary boundaries it exceeds, and vice versa," says one of the researchers, William Lamb from the Mercator Research Institute on Global Commons and Climate Change in Germany.
'Although wealthy nations like the US and UK satisfy the basic needs of their citizens, they do so at a level of resource use that is far beyond what is globally sustainable.'
'In contrast, countries that are using resources at a sustainable level, such as Sri Lanka, fail to meet the basic needs of their people.'"

We are able to live sustainably, but it'll be harder just for us to be able to live comfortably and not struggle as a society. The way humans live now is not very sustainable, but we are living comfortably. Now it's a matter of comfort, or lifeon this planet.

https://www.sciencealert.com/maybe-we-c … the-planet

When we talk about things we want to buy so badly or even a simple gift, do we even ask ourselves: "How much is too much?" Is it really that necessary to have a new phone or a tablet every once in a while? If your cousin or a classmate has some new super cool sneakers, do you need to buy them as well? I feel like those are the questions that people don't really ask themselves enough. Most importantly, they don't think about how things they buy can actually affect the environment. We all know how much plastic surrounds us every day. We also know how long it takes for plastic to decompose. A thousand years for one plastic bag! Now, remember how many different devices people buy every day. And they all contain plastic. That way, we all leave an indelible trace. My point is that we should buy new things only when the old ones become truly unusable.

I fully agree with this post. After looking at my carbon footprint, the category on "purchases" was actually my lowest number. This being said, I feel even more obligated to lower this number because in my living situation, "purchases" is the only category I have full control over, so I will work to lower my amount of carbon even more. I already thrift and buy used clothing for the majority of my closet, but I do definitely participate in trends when they come and go. Clothing trends are horrible for our atmosphere, because so many people buy one thing, causing the production of this product to go through the roof. The more factories that make the one over-sold product, the more carbon. After doing some research, Nike sells 10 million MORE Air Force 1s(a shoe trend that I did contribute to)every year. Trends like these increase the amount of carbon in our atmosphere a lot. Companies creating and selling products to the public in general is horrible for our planet. Right now we are only discussing the air and carbon in our atmosphere, but there are so many more issues, like packaging and animal testing. From now on I am not only going to buy used clothes for 80 percent or more of my closet, but I will research brands before buying anything brand new, making sure it is a cruelty free product, and that the packaging is recyclable or eco friendly.

Hi! Thanks for responding. Yes, unfortunately, as you said, companies produce more and more every day without thinking about what to do with it once it's thrown away. Also, thank you for mentioning cruelty-free products. I also try my best to buy vegan products only, especially cosmetics. My "purchases" category was the lowest one as well, so I'm really proud of both of us for setting an example to those whose purchases may run out of control.

Is having the latest technology a want or a need?

How often do you get a new cell phone or mp3 player? Did you really need a new model? Do you consider the environmental impact of these purchases? If you are addicted, how can you break your addiction? It is important to ask yourself these questions before investing in new technology. So often our society obsesses over having newer and better technology, forgetting the true affect it can have on the earth. The United States alone has generated approximately 6.2 million tons of e-waste every year and has only recycled around 15% of that waste. Additionally, e-waste is one of the most difficult types of waste to recycle and reuse. While technology is essential for everyday life the most advanced technology is not, it is completely possible to live a productive life with a slightly less new model of technology. Furthermore, limiting your purchases of new technology can help reduce wasting money and creating waste, so limiting your purchases is beneficial to the environment and you. The world today is in the age of information where millions of gigabytes of data are uploaded everyday. Being updated and aware of what is going on in the world constantly has become what everyone is accustomed to. So unfortunately, breaking that cycle of addiction is a very difficult thing to do. Personally, I feel like something is missing or feel a bit anxious when I don't know what is going on without my phone because of how much useful information it can provide at a single tap of my finger. With advancements of technology sending information at faster speeds with every new update and every new model, more and more people abandon their perfectly useful and functional phones for new ones with better quality. This phenomenon causes perfectly good and useful materials such as 35,274 pounds of copper, 772 pounds of silver, 75 pounds of gold, and 33 pounds of palladium to be wasted. We chose not to recover these materials when it was completely in our capacity to. Some of these materials are used in surgical instruments and could have been recycled and reused for better purposes. In conclusion, while technology is a needed essential in this age of information the world has turned to, having the newest and greatest models that can provide this information is not an essential and actually does more harm to the Earth than necessary when you could just use your perfectly good, older model.

Sources: https://earth911.com/eco-tech/20-e-waste-facts/#:~:text=The%20United%20States%20generated%206.92,That's%20right.

In my experience the idea of convenience has almost alway gotten in the way of focussing only on what I need. Also based on what I have seen in others, I am not alone in this. When I go to a store and see something that I might want, I immediately focus on that thing instead of whatever I need. I think a lot of people buy certain items  because it makes some aspect of their life easier, but from the carbon calculator I learned how big of an impact little things like that can have. I must try to be rational when there is something I want. I will have to think if it serves me any real  purpose and about how it might factor into my carbon footprint. I don't really go out to stores often, so I would hope with that fact and being more aware would lower my carbon footprint.

I have a big struggle of deciding if I really want it or do I need it. I think having the question with you can help with your everyday life to help the environment around you. When going to the grocery store think do I really need it or do I want it? Or is this going to help the environment. My personal problem is shopping since I pay for some of my clothes I go for the cheap-fast fashion. For my personal needs I should start  finding affordable and safe items to better the environment. This struggle of mine caused me to have a higher carbon footprint purchase than I expected, now moving forward and realizing what my carbon footprint is, I have a plan to better the earth and my environment.

I have a hard time deciding if I need something or do I want something. This decision can affect life and the environment around you. Asking yourself that question can help improve and make the environment look more positive. Also, ask yourself "how will this affect the environment." These simple decisions and questions can save our environment if we all participate. Some examples of how I can help the environment is when I go to the grocery store or a clothing store like Urban Outfitters I can ask myself "do I need this, or do I want this." This can also often occur when people referring to teenagers who shop for fast-fasion. Instead of shopping for cheap fast fashion, we should think to ourselves and buy more affordable and better items for our environment. This can cause people's carbon footprints to be higher. Now that I know my carbon footprint, I will proceed to better myself and remember "what can I do to make the environment better."

While there are many benefits of the capitalist society we live in such as innovation, range of products for consumers to choose from, incentive to work, and efficiency of markets, capitalism is like a double edged sword. On the flip side of the coin, capitalism has become a driving factor in many of our environmental problems. Capitalism provides individuals with competition: companies are always competing to get out their newest and most advanced version of their product out onto the market. The consequences of this is that this gives consumers the urge to purchase the latest item on the market. For example Apple. Apple’s products reveal the pattern and business model the company uses to make their sales. For example when they removed the headphone jack, they immediately offered airpods as a solution. Because this would be a new feature for their newest phone, it therefore increased sales in their new product, the airpods. This pattern is seen again when they revealed they would remove the beloved home button and be replaced with the new feature of face ID that was promised for new phones. This would effectively increase sales in the new phone models. Just recently it was revealed that Apple would be removing the charging port. This has caused many to wonder why, since it’s the most vital aspect of maintaining your device. The catch is that Apple will be releasing a new wireless charging system. With the hype that the media gives Apple, many people will want the new iPhone. Which begs the question, how many people really need the new iPhone? Studies reveal that Apple’s hazardous waste has doubled in the past few years. This means a lot for the consumers, who must realize that you don’t always need the newest model. Consumers must consider this: do you want it, or do you NEED it?

Sources:
https://globuswarwick.com/2021/01/21/th … -of-apple/
https://appleinsider.com/articles/19/10 … e-consumer

Thank you for bringing that up because that hasn't been really talked about much. Which is weird because e-waste can cause severe environmental effects if not disposed of correct. For instance, because of the chemicals and foreign materials housed inside of our electronics they can intoxicate the air and soil cause permanent damage to the environment. But it doesn't end there majority of the time if the electronic is/was made of metal they usually smelt the metal and reuse it for another product. The bad part about this is a majority of smelting facilities use fossil fuels.
Sources:
https://elytus.com/blog/e-waste-and-its … nment.html
https://globuswarwick.com/2021/01/21/th … -of-apple/

It can be very hard, or easy to confuse a want and a need. For example, in your meal there needs to be fruit, grains, vegetables, and proteins. This is the recommended meal that we should eat 3x a day to remain healthy, but do many people really do this all the time? No, sometimes you want that fast food meal, dessert for breakfast, or junk food before an actual meal. This is an example of an obvious want. A slightly confusing want though can be taking an hour long shower without turning off the water when not using it on a regular basis to feel extra clean, rather than A 15 minute one has the same effect as an hour long one. It is a little understandable when you are washing your hair though. Another confusing want is technology, which in this day in age is a necessity to a certain point due to the world changing from its man made ways. The main focus on why it's bad is because of the way it is disposed of and how it can cause human health problems which makes the world worse. Elaborating on the human health problems, it can make someone's health worse and possibly to the extreme which will cause medical health. The more machines that we use to help these people which are made in factories can release more bad toxins into the atmosphere. In the end when making certain decisions come to the understanding of if it is a need or want.

Ways that I can can help to reduce my carbon footprint are by taking shorter showers, and stop buying things that I may not need. I've noticed at personally, but also as a society, we tend to buy and do things to make our lives easier, disregarding the effect it has on others and our environment.  Ways that I tend to disregard the earth are by taking longer showers just so that I can be more comfortable. I also drive places that I could easily walk to. By doing so I am creating more pollution and creating lazy habits. I will work to improve on my lazy habits and put more thought and consideration into my lifestyle choices.

While separating my wants and needs I find it helpful to really introspect on my taste and find out what I actually want enough to get. For example, I am really into fashion and enjoy buying and making new clothing, but usually have a pretty low budget, and am very wary of the harm overconsumption and fast fashion can do to the environment. Because of this before I shop online I make a list of the type of item I'd like to get so I don't get distracted and land on something that I don't actually want. After I decide on something I usually let it sit in my cart for a few days so I can find what I'd like to wear with it, and make sure I really want it. It helps me cut down on consumption and really apriciate it when I do get new clothes.

I really like your solution of letting things sit in your cart for a while and thinking of what to wear with them before you buy them. It's important to give yourself some time to think about your purchases to limit impulse buying, and thinking about how it will go together with pieces you already have also helps your wardrobe fit together better.

I feel that a lot of people have lost the ability to distinguish the difference between a want and a need or ignore it and I have done this as well. Some of the things that we think are needs are actually wants such as a phone. When we buy things that we want and do not limit what wants we buy, we can contribute to climate change in several ways. The first is think about the gas you used driving to and from the store. The second way is the packaging that you bought it in could not be friendly to the environment. These are just some of the ways that just buying un-needed things can contribute negatively to the world including climate change. Another way we buy un-needed things is through online shopping and here some stats, "Amazon ships approximately 1.6 million packages a day. That works out to more than 66 thousand orders per hour, and 18.5 orders per second."Think about the electricity that is used to process these 1.6 million packages a day. Not to mention the airplanes, boats, and cars used to ship these packages. These are just a few ways that our habits of buying un-needed things can affect the world including climate change. You may be wondering "these are super small, how do I make any change because these are so small" A lot of these things add up and play a much larger part in the world today. One last point that I would like to make is to look into the companies you buy these un-needed things from. Some companies are un-ethical and invest in oil which contributes to climate change. I am not saying that you should never buy wants, we just need to limit what un-needed things we buy as well as look into the company.

Sources:
Amazon stats
https://landingcube.com/amazon-statisti … r%20second.

I also found this interesting and helpful
https://dspace.library.uu.nl/bitstream/ … sAllowed=y

when you are considering buying something, think to yourself, "do I really need this? could I live without it? what does this do to the climate?"

I totally agree with you, I think we should always think about the consequences before buying anything. Moreover, having many many objects that don't serve won't make you happier. We should only buy useful objects or objects that really make us happier and not a superficial happiness. We should not buy objects just to buy them.

To add on, I think we need to be more cautious about what brands we are buying from because a lot of companies test their products out on animals and have packaging that is not good for our environment. I know that sometimes we are put in situations where the only option is non environmentally friendly products, which is ok every now and then, but referring back to what you said, we have to limit the number of times we let that happen by asking ourselves "Do I need this? How will it affect the environment?". According to the website Cruelty-Free Kitty, several brands such as L'Orel, MAC, Maybelline, and Nars still test their products on animals. As a community trying to work towards a better environment, we all need to be more cautious about what brands we are buying from and how often we do so.

I feel that getting the latest technology is a want, not a need. I say this because typically needs are things you need to live/survive. Such as food, water, money, a place to sleep/live in. These are all basic needs that some don't even have access to. Wants are things that you think could benefit your life or make you cooler or look cooler but you don't NEED those things. How different is life gonna be if you go from one Iphone to the next? Now if the Iphone is broken and your only form of communication, then it becomes a NEED. For example, my Iphone 11 works perfectly fine right now. My mom asked me if I wanted to upgrade now or wait a couple months. I told her I could wait a couple months because with the extra money it is to get the new phone now, I can buy something I need. If we all focus on our needs and take care of them, we can reward ourselves with wants later on

Personal tech i.e. phones, ipads etc. I think should not be coming out with new models as frequently. Though I do think it is cool that personal tech is advancing I also think that major companies like Apple and Microsoft should be putting their money into making their practices more sustainable or giving/raising money for organizations trying to stop climate change.

I agree with your post and that many people are constantly buying new electronics. People should consider the effects of buying new models, for instance, how it will affect our earth and environment. Everyone should only buy new models when their old electronics are completely unusable.

Most electronics are made in factories. Factories account for a lot of the greenhouse gases being released into the air. But, companies like Apple and Microsoft continue making new devices because they want more money. How do we convince others that global warming is a really big deal? HOW do we tell everyone to stop their harmful actions in order to help the planet?

Before you buy or use things, think about this questions: Do I need it, or do I just want it? Try to buy and use things you need to help the environment.

Try to buy what you need and not what you want.

Be a part of the solution, not the pollution.

A beautiful environment starts with you!

Sometimes when you are getting something extra, for example bacon on a cheeseburger, maybe ask yourself do I really need this? Or do I jut want it. Some things like the example, if you didn't get it, it would lower your carbon footprint, helping the climate.

i agree. same with clothes, ask yourself do I really need this or will it just end up hanging in my closet forever after a week of using it.

I totally agree? We all should learn to how to attenuate our need to shop unnecessary items. As someone who tends to hoard, I can say that material objects don't completely satisfy my desire. Instead of spending time on superficiality we can all do something that benefits us that doesn't contribute to our carbon footprint.

I agree with what y'all have said so far. I too have a problem with holding onto clothing items forever and I think I need to get better at learning how to sort through and donate clothes more often. I also think I should do more thrift shopping instead of buying new clothes because it's better for the environment and thrift stores are fun!

Well getting the newest technology is just a want because sure it's nice to have but it's not a necessary thing to do like needing to eat and drink constantly.

Everybody could survive without the newest techology but for some people it is important for school or work.

It took me a while to separate my wants from needs, I still sometimes have trouble with it. Only buying things you NEED is a great way to lower your carbon foot print. I’m not saying dont treat your self, all I’m saying is think before you reach out to buy something. Things you may need, probably being food, depending on where you live water, resources to keep you alive. So next time your in a store and you see a piece of clothing you want, think about it before you get it.

Yes it is very important to separate the things that you need from the things that you want. Although I think that it depends on the food whether you need it or not. I at least don't always eat food because I'm hungry but because I'm bored, and that is a privilege and it's also very wasteful.

we have things for entertainment that aren't necessities

Ye, we need to control ourselves and spread awareness.

we must ask ourselves what things we need and what things we only have but actually do not need

The question of wants or needs is a large one especially with all that is accessible to us. With new technology such as the iPhone coming out every year millions of people want it, when in reality their is nothing wrong with their iPhone from one year ago. The same can be said about shoes where people get new pairs constantly and don't wear them very much and then buy a new pair. These things are all needs which we have to cut back on in order to maintain environmental stability. However, with all that is accessible to us, it is a very difficult process to convince people not to get things they want, especially those who are wealthy.

I agree that with all that is accessible to us, it is very hard to completely stop buying things we want rather than need. I think that to combat this we should take time to reflect on why we want something, and look at what we already have or could get secondhand before we buy new things.

Getting the latest technology has a few aspects.

Do your current electronics function as they should? Yes, then having the latest is a want.

Do you have electronics to begin with? No? Well if the reason you don't have them before is you couldn't afford them, getting the latest tech isn't the smartest option especially when there are older models that work just as good but if you find it absolutely necessary to have the latest tech it's still a want.

Do you have electronics and it suddenly stops working? Then maybe it is a necessity that you upgrade but it doesn't mean you have to get the newest thing. Researching a good alternative is also an option.

SO in short having the absolute NEWEST is a want

Many people in the US usually always want the latest and greatest gadgets every year even if they dont need it. I think it might be just due to the convenience of having a new phone rather than a old one. But also technology is advancing and there actually are many technologies that we may need to survive if we ever need it.

I agree with this statement. Purchases were the least of my carbon footprint, but still a larger number than others around the world. I think people like to upgrade for the fun of it and convenience as well. I normally upgrade when it’s needed rather than wanted. I think if everyone thought about technology in this way, the carbon footprint could be reduced.

It is a want because when you just got the iphone you have now it worked fine so it will always work fine until the phone is unusable which will take years.

People now just want the latest or popular gadgets when that is not a need. We need to realize that it is not about having the latest gadget but about using what you have until your want becomes a need.

Having the new technology is definitely a want , especially when you see everyone else with a new device it makes you want to invest in one. Apple devices especially , they release a new gadget many times throughout the year. I feel as if people just want to stay ahead of others and on updated with the new trends. I usually get a new cellphone every 2-3 years unless it is broken, then I will get a new phone ASAP. I never consider the environmental impact of my purchases , I usually just buy what I want when it is needed.

New technology is mostly I want But it could also be a need some new technology can be replacing older ones. Such as phone, phones don't last forever so sometimes you do need a new one if your old one stops working. I usually get a new phone every 2 years.No one really needs the new models it's more of a want. nowadays teens and kids are more addicted to technology because of apps. I never consider the impact the environmental impact of these purchases.

Hi Nia and Samantha - I agree with you both and I really try not to buy new electronics.  In addition to the carbon footprint of producing new phones, there is all the toxic waste (including batteries) and the rare metal and other components (like cobalt and lithium) which are mined using what are generally environmentally destructive extraction methods.

See this BBC report entitled Your old phone is full of untapped precious metals

...and this Washington Post expose entitled The Cobalt Pipeline: Tracing the path from deadly hand-dug mines in Congo to consumers’ phones and laptops

So what to do?

When my phone breaks I fix it! There are great repair shops that can fix smartphones for $100 or less.  If the phone is really destroyed or totally obsolete, then I buy refurbished phones from legitimate sellers.  You can even get a full warranty on those - it;'s like going to a second hand store but getting a warranty!

Is having the latest technology a want or need?, having the latest technology is definitely a want,people always want to have the latest technology when they have items that are perfectly fine but it's the "want" that brings them to go out and buy the latest items. People should just go out and buy the things they need rather than want, only when the item you have is old you should buy a new one.

I completely agree there are many people I know that value non essential material things over necessary items like food. Although it is cool to have the latest apple product or an expensive pair of shoes, people need to realize that those are not essential and should first work on getting important things for life.

I think that if we take all the abandoned farmland and let it regrow and form back into a natural habitat for living things then over time the same land that was cleared for cattle and other livestock can reform back into a space where there can be trees and other native plants which all can store carbon dioxide but not only can the trees and plants so can the soil. This could help reduce the carbon dioxide in the air simply by allowing for the regrowth of native forests where they once were. It also is better than just planting random trees in random places because that has been proven pretty ineffective because either the place where the trees are planted is suitable to host a forest or the trees aren’t watched and help enough at their young stages to survive.

As many others have said, there are things that are definitely needs, like food and water, and wants like the latest model or the best clothes. It has been drilled into me since I was young that no, I do not need that stuffed animal but if I really, really, want it then I can have it, and only if I wanted to donate two of the older ones in exchange. This kept me really thinking about if it was worth it. The iPhone 11 was out when I got my iPhone 7, a few months before they stopped selling them in stores. But life isn’t really about just only getting what you need, everyone needs to be happy, they just have to ration themselves on how they do it.

Perfectly said! To add onto your point, a method I like to use when buying things new for myself is what I call the 4 day method. A lot of times I online shop and leave the item I want in my virtual cart for 4 days, and if I still want it just as much, then I get it. Almost always it’s ends up staying just in the cart as I have time to think back about my decision.

In an agreement with earlier posts there are just a few things I’d like to add. We as humans have a desire and need for anything new. We constantly confuse wants with needs. It’s important to consider your impact as a person, and what is really a necessity. Thsi is not to say you cannot treat yourself in any way shape or form, simply to gain awareness on what is something that is very valuable to you, and what really is not

I don't ask for  a new phone or games or new consoles often but sometimes you buy things that aren't good for the environment just don't let it out of your house

That is not the problem, the problem is that when recycling many people do not want to do it and throw it around. We should educate these people by teaching them the effects of climate change.

I understand the challenges of cutting back on unnecessary purchases and often times we all feel we need different products in our life to survive. Weather these be practical or not, we all have unique needs. The thing we need to understand is that it can be very hard to support the environment in every aspect of your life. It can feel restricting and limiting and it can be hard to handle. The best thing that every individual can do is simply recognize what you are contributing to the environment, weather its positive or negative noticing your impact is important. Starting out with smaller changes to your lifestyle can help you. If you feel that limiting your use of electronics or disposing of them responsibly is too much, you can make a positive impact in other parts of your life. Maybe you start carpooling or make sure your lights are turned off when you leave a room. Learning and understanding how what you do impacts the Earth can be overwhelming and maybe some of it seems out of reach, starting small and going from there can make all the difference.

I feel we never think about if we need or want something. Sometimes is good to get what you need, and to save your money because you never know what could happened. Even more since we are in a pandemic, and people are dying. But sometimes id good to give yourself a treat because of hard work, or whatever.

Yes, I agree with you. We buy things we don't really need and spend money very irresponsibly. We should save the money, for example, for university, for a trip, to donate it to poor people. We have to try not to spend money on the first thing we see in a shop.

Having the news technology when your is working perfecting is a want, I don't get new phone often my last phone last for four years and my phone now is two years old so I will get a need one when this one stops working or if I want one and used this one for a good amount of time. I try to consider the environmental when I buy things but sometimes it just get forgotten which I'm try to work on step by step.

Hello fellow humans!
I know that “needs” are things you can’t live without (food, water, clothing, shelter), and “wants” are anything you want that doesn’t fall under the category of “need”, but when is it okay to buy something you don’t need? Do you think it would greatly benefit the climate if everyone lived a more minimalistic lifestyle? Is it okay to buy something you don’t need if it adds value to your life? How much better for the climate is it if you buy something you want ‘used’ instead of ‘new’?
I would love to hear other peoples’ thoughts on this!

I would say that if what you want but don’t need is something like upgrading to an IPhone 11 from an IPhone X, probably that is just an necessary use of materials. However, if it is something like getting a phone when you don’t have one before, that might be important enough to justify spending materials. I think that there isn’t really just any line you can draw in the sand for everyone and say that anything to the left is not justifiable and anything to the right is. It is more of an individual choice of how much you think is justifiable, and obviously everyone is going to place that line either more towards buying things or not buying things, but we cannot control the actions of others, so it’s up to everybody to make a difference.

When considering personal purchases and the difference between what is wanted and needed there is a lot to be particularly mindful about. The stigma and strong urge to want more and want what’s new is a persistent issue in today’s society. A need is something we require to survive such as food, water, and shelter. In comparison, is stuff we have convinced ourselves are just as important, when rather these are just things we want. When one desires something it can feel like a need. This is a perfect example of where the planet/humanity can be thoughtful about the carbon footprint we are leaving behind when not being considerate of wanting vs. needing. Consumption in the amount of food, technological devices, and clothing items that we buy is way more than it should be if we are trying to be aware of how much carbon we as humanity are emitting. By these items being made and purchased frequently we increase carbon emission and disregard what could be cut off from our daily expenses. Budgeting can be important and choosing wisely with things that are energy efficient is a smart way to go. Also the need for new iPhones and other devices is advertised and puts the buyers under a spell convincing them they need the newest type of thing. By using things to their maximum capacity and being thoughtful of what we buy we can get a clearer picture on wants vs. needs.

I agree, in a society where companies, as well as friends, are always telling us we need the newest devices in order to fit the mold, it’s hard to form a habit of being mindful of what we want versus what we need. Like you said, budgeting is a really smart way of handling this issue individually. Budgeting can help us be more conscious about our money and what we are spending it on, which is effective in making us stop and think about whether we need something or just want it.

I don't really often get a new cell phone even though my satisfaction craves it. Yes i do consider what i buy good for the environment or not t=but there's also sometimes that needs that are not so good for the environment.

Eating animals arent necessary but just a want for some people. There are arguments that a vegan diet doesn't provide enough protein for people to be healthy but this isn't true. A vegan diet can help the environment and lower your carbon footprint. I personally am not on a fully vegan diet yet but in the process of letting go of my old diet to a fully vegan one but I am lactose intolerant so I'm closer to my goal. I believe that this change will not only help my health but help the environment around and future generations to come.

I agree! The stigma around veganism is something that is holding back true improvements to societies health and the well being or our planet. I think the public needs to be educated on the impacts animal agriculture has had on the planet as well on our own bodies. Eating animal products is something most people have been taught up to do. It is extremely difficult to change peoples minds and lifestyle. Although we can attempt to do our part by spreading awareness.

I agree! The stigma around veganism is something that is holding back true improvements to societies health and the well being or our planet. I think the public needs to be educated on the impacts animal agriculture has had on the planet as well on our own bodies. Eating animal products is something most people have been taught up to do. It is extremely difficult to change peoples minds and lifestyle. Although we can attempt to do our part by spreading awareness.

I agree. I was a vegetarian for 6 almost 7 years and there are plenty of ways to gain proper nutrients if done correctly. Farming animals for slaughter takes a significant amount of land, water, and crops that all could be used to feed people rather than the animal. Farm animals also release so much methane gas into the atmosphere. I do hope people start to embrace a more vegetarian/vegan diet in the future to help the environment. The first thing I always told my friends to do is at the bare minimum cut red meat such as cows from their diet. It's not necessary for survival but rather a want for a steak or burger.

Many people these days are just looking to expand on what they own without thinking if they truly need the item. A major issue that contributes to this is fast fashion. With so many cheap options available, consumers will constantly continue buying without thinking about the ethics or environmental impact. It takes about 2,700 liters of water to make one t shirt. Combine that with the amount of clothing that continues to fill up landfills because it is considered "out of fashion" and more problems continue to arise. I've attached a video that goes into depth more on the subject of ethical fashion or "slow fashion"

We all want things in life but sometimes we have to stop and think do we really need this? An example of a want is something like jewelry and an example of a need is clothing. It's always best to save that money to buy something more important in the future but if you have space and money then it's always ok to treat yourself.

In principle a good idea to think about it.

Yeah, so agree with you. Sometimes we really do need to stop buying all that stuff.

I agree, but sometimes we should buy ourselves what we really want. As for me I feel relieved and excited when I buy myself things. I think it is really cool especially for teenagers

Sometimes its best to think about what you want in life and sometimes you just need to learn to prioritize your self. most of the time it's best to think about what you need at the moment, doing that will save money and will allow you to do something better later but sometimes depending on the situation. its nice to treat yourself.

A need is something that is required to survive or live like water and food. Wanting something isn't needed for living. For example, electronics and jewelry aren't nessaccery and aren't that important, unlike shelter.

when talking about the carbon scale and what to do to cut back in your daily life its important to know when you actually need something or you just want something that way you can cut back on the the things you just want and dont need

Needs are things you have to have. Some examples would be food, clothing, shelter, and water. Wants are these you don't need but still want to have. Examples of these would be jewelry, paintings, perfumes, and electronics.

Wants are wishes that we would like to have but do not need for products and services. Some desires can seem like needs. Needs are a particular kind of need, and they refer to things that we need to live, including food, water, and shelter. To survive, a need is something that is needed. A desire is something that a person wants but can survive without it.

Phones aren't necessarily a need but the different phone companies have made and advertised their products as if they are essential. As well as the different games and social media, it's all specifically developed for people to get addicted so they can keep buying their products. Also, the status that comes with having the newly released phones makes people want to keep having them right when they're released. So if a company releases a new phone every six months some people will buy a new phone every six months which is a big waste but benefits the company.

All the companies only think of the sales is going to make and not about the environment and the addiction problems, so as long as they are making money they will advertise and do whatever they can to sell their phones.

I personally don't believe that we need to have the latest phone/technology to be able to communicate and socialize with others. It is for sure a want, to show off or get the new features on a phone but an older phone is still going to do the job.

Phones aren't necessarily a need but the different phone companies have made and advertised their products as if they are essential. As well as the different games and social media, it's all specifically developed for people to get addicted so they can keep buying their products. Also, the status that comes with having the newly released phones makes people want to keep having them right when they're released. So if a company releases a new phone every six months some people will buy a new phone every six months which is a big waste but benefits the company.

I think that most of the things that we want, like a new phone, are just things that we want but we have been convinced that we need.  Many companies make older versions of phones lag and stop working after a certain amount of years and therefore we need to replace them in order to have a working phones but if it was not for these companies wanting to make more money we would have much less waste because we would not feel as if we need to replace these things.

I agree with mmogen because new phones or other new technology is not the items we desperately need in our lives. I also don't like that popular technology companies program older versions of their products to half the capability it started with. Companies do not care about their customers or how much they waste when creating new phones each year. What companies aim for is more profit my selling more products. Lastly, companies who produce new smartphones each year produce a lot of emission in the atmosphere. The companies input smartphone chips and motherboards in the cellphones which are made of precious metals that are mined for. Therefore, the production of cellphones cause more emission in the atmosphere.

Yes, I also agree that we don't need newer versions of technology in our lives rather that we've been convinced that we need them. Social media and the Internet constantly has new trends and because people want to follow those trends, they often make these unnecessary purchases to keep up. Companies are happy to see consumers buy their newest product as as soon as they promote it in a commercial. They make profits from new purchases, but this produce and consume cycle causes so much more pollution in the atmosphere. What mmogen says about companies needing to add updates and improve their older versions is correct, but obviously they wouldn't do that since they're making money. Instead, I think that it is up to us to make smarter purchases to reduce pollution.

What do you think about electric cars, are they worth it or do you prefer to use gasoline cars although it is not environmentally friendly.

I believe that electric cars are absolutely worth it. According to Forbs magazine, unlike gas cars, electric cars release almost no emissions while in use. To argue the other side some electric cars release 60% more CO2 in construction, however, if you look at lifetime emissions gas cars are just not able to compete. The electric cars are especially worth it when you consider that electrical providers are working on reducing their own CO2 emissions. However, we will not see real results until electric cars become more mainstream.

https://www.forbes.com/sites/jamesellsm … 0d793476d2

I  agree with you. Electric cars are definitely worth their price. Electric cars reduce the amount of greenhouse gas emissions drastically. Also to create even less greenhouse gas emissions you can use renewable energy to charge your car. Non electric cars are obviously the more healthier and better choice for our atmosphere.

I definitely agree with you. But I think that people don't want to make efforts to change their gasoline car because there are still too many constraints. Beside the price, which can be reduced thanks to a government aid, there have not enough installations to help people get over the edge. For example government can developed public places to facilitate the maintenance or recharging of electric cars. Or measures such as imposing a service for electric cars in all garages.

I disagree with all of you because I think that electric cars are not the solution : we can't judge a produce just during the periode of use, we need to see pollution before and after the use.
First because when you extract materials to produce battery you make a lot of CO2, after you need to transform it and put in many really poluting elements.
If you want to recycle the car, battery is a big problem as it may raise problems we did not yet encounter.

i think the replacment of gasoline cars is the future and the present. they are much more eco friendly and less expensive over time

I think electric cars are only environmentally friendly compared to gasoline cars, but they are not the best solution. Because the use of electric vehicles in the process will also cause environmental pollution. The most environmentally friendly way is to walk.

I agree with this! While electric cars are a great alternative, nothing beats walking or biking. On the other hand, using an electric car is a next best thing that is not walking. It can be hard to fully give up cars so I think electric cars is already a huge step in the right direction.

I think Electric cars are the definite answer even if they are more expensive. I think this way because in the long run you will be saving money from rising gas prices and in the near future especially in some regions they are planning to ban the use of cars that burn gasoline so it’s better to get one now if you are in one of those regions. They are also  more environmentally conscious because they do not emit greenhouse gases like gasoline does and with that comes bragging rights.

I think electric cars are a good start. Climate change is caused by greenhouse gases and one greenhouse gas is carbon dioxide. Carbon dioxide gets released whenever fossil fuels are used. Electric cars are so expensive because they are more efficient and do not use any fossil fuels. If people switch to electric cars than less fossil fuels are used which is a good start to fixing the climate.

There are some serious drawbacks to electric cars, the lack of range and the scarcity of charging stations being some, but I think the environmental benefit is worth it.

I agree with these replies in my own words electric cars are good because no matter where you plug in across the country, electric vehicles are cheaper to fuel than their gasoline-powered counterparts. Every electricity provider in the 50 largest US cities offers a rate plan that makes filling up on electricity cheaper than gasoline, adding up to a median yearly savings of over $770. Also an electric engine generates instant torque, which means that electric vehicles zoom off starting lines and provide smooth, responsive acceleration and deceleration. Electric vehicles also have a low center of gravity, which improves handling, responsiveness, and ride comfort.

100% agree. Electric cars are way more environmentally friendly when it comes to CO2 emissions and when it comes to sustainability over time. There has been nothing proving these cars inferior to gasoline powered cars yet people are still extremely hesitant to switch. Now, I get why they are being hesitant, due to their not being as many charge stations or their higher price, but they are cheaper than gasoline when filling up. If the general majority of people start to shift over to the electric side of things, our CO2 emissions into the atmosphere will begin to fall for transportation. Hopefully we will be closing the chapter to the fossil fuels age and move into the renewable, sustainable, healthy energy sources in every way of life to preserve our planet

I think using electric cars is a great idea! they are great for the environment because there is no carbon dioxide being put into the air and they don't cost as much because you don't have to spend money on gasoline.

I think that electric cars are very much worth it. I personally drive a gas car but I would prefer the former. Electric cars are much less harmful to the environment because they add less harmful greenhouse gases to the atmosphere. Also, they are more cost-effective than gas cars.

I agree, I think electric cars are more environmentally friendly and are a much better option then gasoline fueled cars. With that being said, I think if you can walk, bike or even carpool somewhere is also a great option to help reduce our carbon footprints.

I think the overall benefits of electric cars are what makes them worth it. The long-term affect benefits the environment, where gasoline and fossil fuels continue to harm it. However, unlike Iceland gas powered cars are used everywhere. While you do see more electric cars, gasoline cars are vital to society today for the reason being that they support a majority of transportation needs.

I feel that electric cars are completely worth it. Electric cars are actually becoming more affordable than they once were, though still expensive, and are much cheaper to fuel. The only major problem is the concept of change for individuals when it comes to transitioning to more ecofriendly habits, which can be uncomfortable when it comes to breaking the patters that people are so used to and in this case it's driving gas-powered vehicles. But I feel that the concept of not releasing any carbon into the atmosphere and moving toward a more sustainable society is a change that is deemed necessary.

I too agree with all these replies, electric cars aren't just more benficial to the enviroment but they are also a lot more affordable. It's true that there aren't many charging stations compared to gas stations yet but if we keep promoting to use electric cars I think everyone on our plant could eventually drive electric cars. Electric cars are also safer than gasoline cars as their battery is usually placed at the bottom of the car resulting in a lower center of gravity. The lower the center of gravity if on a vehicle the less chance it wont role over in an accident. Take Tesla's model X, it was the first SUV to pass the safety test with a five star rating. In conclusion electric cars are better for the enviroment and safer for us.

We can all sit here and talk about the eco friendliness of electric cars but in reality they cannot be a viable solution to anything, at least not for a long time. Electric cars are not only more expensive up front than gasoline cars, but there are no cheap, pre-owned electric vehicles that you can buy for $5000. Electric vehicles simply aren't a viable way to lower emissions for the majority of Americans for the time being. Additionally, some people have claimed that electric vehicles are more enjoyable, and I would counter that they are as enjoyable as they are expensive and an equally priced gasoline powered car would be equally, if not more fun to drive.

I think that electric cars are great for the environment. As time goes on, we will switch to electric cars only and they will become cheaper.

Technology is not a need it might seem like one in our world, but in reality you don't need a phone or computer to live.

I agree with this statement, but without technology be innovation in medicine and architecture would not be developed and as the population Increases, I think that it is important that some technologies be present. that is why I would personally say that technology is both a need and a want depending on the context.

I also agree that technology is both a NEED and a WANT. In some situations technology is a need because without the right technology you can't do certain things like create new medicine, more eco-friendlier variants of things, and just things to help make life easier. On the other hand, technology is a want as well. Some types of technology like phones, wireless earbuds, hoverboards and television are honestly not needs but wants. They are just mainly for entertainment, they can be useful sometimes but most of the time they are distracting. Also, creating and throwing away electronics have a great effect on the environment, so sometimes technology can be bad.

I agree with Knick, technology can be both a need or want depended on the person and what they use if for. For instance, your phone can be a need or want depending on the situation and what you are using it for. If you need it for work, it is a want, if you want to use it for playing videogames or because it is the latest model, it is a want. Some technology are solely needs, such as medical equipment, and technology that fulfill our human needs. On the other hand, technology that are solely wants are gaming consoles, segways, etc. I think it is important to be able to differentiate what is need or want.

I totally agree with you samiiii, i personally don't think we need our cellular devices or high tech gadgets to keep us company.As Knick and Leo pointed out, somethings really need technology in this time obviously because of this sickening pandemic. I think phones are a huge distraction when it comes to everyday situations. Some examples would be when your trying to get your homework done and you see your phone flashing and you pick it up and spend 20 minutes on your phone instead of working. To sum up everything that has been stated so far, we need to learn about time management.

i think we need the technology. not to survive but it is very helpful. you don't need the newest model. just something that can help you

This is very true. As a person who likes going on their phone a lot, I can say that my phone, or phones in general, are mostly a form of entertainment rather than a necessity. I always see people that I know getting the newest phones as soon as they come out, even when their old phones didn't have any problems. This could possibly be thanks to trends and influencers who form some sort of image, that if you have the newest phone you would be "cool" or "rich looking" when in reality you're just spending more money on something that you don't need. In 2016, there was also a rumour that Apple used child labour to make the batteries and parts on their phones.

I think that our world has way to much technology. For example Many people stay home and play video games all day and make lots of money. Which in my opinion is dumb because they are sitting moving their fingers and staring at a screen all day. which is bad for there health. I also think its stupid that in we school spend all day in school staring at a computer screen and then we go home and stay at that same screen doing homework. I know it is much easier but it is over used in my opinion.

I agree with Justin because people aren't accomplishing anything and making money when there is other people working harder but getting less money.

That's my point too I agree. The computer stuff is the main reason I HATE Zoom and wish it didn't exist because my life is being wasted away and my brain is fried when i could've invited people over!

I agree with that we have too much technology. Every year there are hundreds or new phones that are released and many are always upgrading to get the latest and greatest features. Although this is good for major companies like Apple and Samsung, this isn't good for us as we spend more and more time on our phones. Another concern I have is all the materials spent on producing the electronics. I think when someone get a phone we should be encouraging them to recycle their old electronics.

I agree with the fact that many people take advantage of technology which has led to many new problems arising however, without technology our world would be very different today. Technology has helped shape our world in so many good ways as well like being able to travel the world and learn about new languages and cultures, creating more efficient modes of transportation, easier communication, the ability to research more into space, climate change, and the brain, there are also so many other ways as well. Technology is something that will continue to evolve to help things like climate change where we can stop using gas cars and eventually use only electric ones. The pandemic we are in right now would also have looked very different then it would have in the past because we have things like zoom, text, email, and easier access to information which has made us be able to continue on with our lives to a better extent.

I want/need the world to get better at not littering

Littering to end is a need, not a want. If we keep littering, bad things may happen to the world. We can't keep going on like this.

I think that the latest technology is a want not a need since you only need a phone to call and text I dont think you need a new one since it has one more camera.

Having the newest cell phone is a want. You don't need a new cell phone.

I think that the latest technology is not a  need it is a want because all you need a phone for is to call and contact you dont need a new phone because it has one more camera.

Is technology a need? Or is it just something we all want? Do we really need every new iPhone that comes out?

I think we don't. What did they do back before phones and computers were invented? It seems like a necessity in out world, but people did just fine without technology in the old days!

I believe that technology is a need. Because if you look at our world we are based and technology. And if that went away are world would be in big trouble.

I disagree. Yes, technology has been very advanced for these past couple of years and have been extremely convenient towards consumers. But I do not consider it a need. Our electronics are extremely harmful toward our physical and mental beings as well as the environment. 

To begin with, electronics have led to so many people to develop anxiety related to the struggling with basic human interactions. As well as more difficulty making friends, less emotional stability, being more difficult to care for, and inability to finish tasks. By spending so much time on our screens, we seem to get carried away. People start to usually lose their appetite, tire the body and additionally put MORE stress on muscles and joints. Lastly our environment. When the newest iPhone or electronic comes out, everyone usually rushes to get the newest phone. But this habit of wanting the newest electronic is extremely harmful toward our environment. If you choose to not recycle your old phone and buy a new one, that isn't too bad for the environment. But later on, this old phone might become clutter and you're going to eventually trash it sooner or later. However, if you choose to "recycle" your old phone and or turn your old phone into apple, you aren't helping the environment at all but instead help worsen it. When electronic waste is exposed to heat, toxic chemicals are released into the air damaging the atmosphere. These toxic materials contributes to air pollution and affects both land and sea animals.

I do agree with Jaxon in that the world would be in large trouble if all our current technology disappeared, but I don't believe it would cause humans to become extinct as it's not required to live. Although we may not live as long without technology, we would still be living.

I concur with Joanna. Technology has been very helpful to develop and advance our world into the future, but it is not a necessity of life. Although it has made our everyday life more convenient and efficient, we don't need it to live like we need food, water, and shelter. As with everything, there comes a downside of technology with its effects on our well-being.

Consumer technology like computers, phones, and laptops can be terrible health mentally and physically. The problem with these electronics is not necessarily the devices themselves but the apps that are programmed on them. Many of these apps are built with the intention of keeping your attention the longest amount of time possible, which can lead to addiction. These addictions can make your life revolve around device applications, especially social media. Many studies have shown that social media has a terrible effect on our mental health. My belief is that the only way to break this addiction is to lessen your exposure to electronic devices, so you can take away the impulses. This addiction alongside living in a consumerism society often leads you to buy the latest devices.

After recently learning that 56.3 million tonnes of e-waste are produced each year, I've tried to be more mindful of my electronic purchases. I often only buy a new device when it's necessary (i.e security concerns or broken because of age).

I think that most of the technology thing are mostly want because we do need the absolute best thing. The only thing is that if you your phone like does not work. I get a new cell phone like every 4 years mabey. The new phone I just got I did need because my old one was not working and I could not have any apps. No there was no thoughts about preaching the new phone. Maybe try to work hard to not look at my phone as much.

I think technology is a need. The cell phone is needed to make important calls and technology in hospitals saves lives every day. I think certain technology primarily wants, like PCs and Xbox but they are enjoyable to have.

I agree with you, as our society advances we continue to use too much technology which is making our carbon footprints increasingly go up.

I think technology is a need in our current time. It's easier for people to stay in contact, make important phone calls, presentations, and help people in general. I will say though, the updates on tech are definitely a want. It could be a need, if it's an update that technically helps people, but if not, then it's a want.

I think wants and needs are both important, but needs are more important. Needs are something that you need to survive, like food or shelter. Wants are something that would make life better.

Technology can be a want or a need

I believe that having technology in our current times is a need. This is because the world is becoming more and more connected through technology and we would get lost without it. However constantly buying all of the newest technology that there is simply because it is new, is just a need. You don’t need to get a new phone if yours still works, that is just a want.

Wants and needs are sometimes hard to distinguish. Needing a new car might be buying a used care at a reasonable price for you. But wanting a new care is buying a fancy new one at a price you can't afford.

I agree. If we limit our wants we could quite possibly be lowering our carbon footprint.

Yes, I think it is important to be able to know the difference between wanting and needing something. We would be able to lower our carbon footprint by using, and buying less products that we do not actually need. If you do not thing you will use it than just don't buy it. It will help lower your carbon footprint a lot.

I agree. I think that there is a huge difference between wants and needs. If humans only bought or got what they needed, I think that most people's carbon footprints would go down. There are a lot of unnecessary "wants" that have a big impact on global warming and carbon footprints. Hopefully in the future people will start to realize this.

I agree, we are sometimes blinded by our wants and we don't realise they're aren't actually needs that we could do away with. Being able to realise the difference between our needs and wants would be a big step to slow down global warming.

Wants and needs are sometimes hard to distinguish. Needing a new car might be buying a used care at a reasonable price for you. But wanting a new care is buying a fancy new one at a price you can't afford.

So true! One thing I would also like to add is that when you do find an item that you truly need, is there a more eco-friendly alternative? When I say this, not only do I mean reusable/recyclable/compostable alternatives, but also where you buy them from. Buying bamboo straws from a small business vs buying from big corporations is much better not only for the planet but for the economy as well!

I completely agree! A lot of the time, I am in a situation in which I am asking myself do I NEED this, or do I WANT this. In order to make a difference, I believe people need to begin sticking to their needs rather than wants because it will lessen the number of products that you use that could potentially be harmful to our Earth.

It's the matter of fact that new tech is going to replace the old. It is the definite result caused by the development of human society in order to achieve better living status. It could be considered as both, or neither.