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.