The Shift Towards Conscious Consumption

The trend towards conscious consumption and environmental awareness is spreading worldwide, transforming the production sector and fostering the emergence of new business models. Manufacturers are integrating the principle of shared use and ownership of resources into their businesses, while consumers are increasingly turning to the reuse of items. The transformation and growth of eco-culture is the main topic of the new issue of trendletters, produced as part of a joint project of the Human Capital Multidisciplinary Research Center and the UNESCO Futures Studies Chair (UNESCO Futures Literacy Chairs network).

For reference:  This series of trendletters continues the practice of publishing reviews of global technological trends since 2014 and presents a unique database of global trends and challenges in the field of human development. This research of the HSE ISSEK is based on the results of iFORA Big Data System, the Delphi survey (with the participation of more than 400 leading foreign and Russian scientists), expert sessions and interviews. 

In the last decade, there has been a shift towards more conscious consumption and a greater respect for the environment in society. This trend has had a significant impact on human potential, leading to the emergence of "green skills." These skills include a willingness to learn about sustainable development and the ability to use green technologies in the workplace. They also include teamwork skills, resistance to change, the ability to communicate and negotiate and following safety and health regulations.

This shift towards conscious production and consumption affects not only buyers and consumers but also the business community as a whole. The integrated efforts of all participants, based on an ecological mindset, contribute to reducing the energy and resources required for production, diversifying the economy, creating new jobs and mitigating the impact on the environment.

It is also worth noting that there are certain risks associated with the development and implementation of a culture of sustainable consumption. Experts suggest that it is possible for prices of everyday goods to increase in the future. They also anticipate that there may be a trade-off between environmental and social responsibility, as eco-activism could lead to a reduction in product consumption, income for companies and their ability to fulfill their obligations to employees.

The new issue of trendletter (Russian version) is available at the link.

Previous issues of trendletters can be found here.