Transition Exeter

Consumerism

Concern 1

How do we  counteract Consumerism..?

We want to  work  on understanding  how consumerism works , the areas of manipulation ,seduction, choice and greed.  So sharing ways of moving  from the fantasy desires  imposed by advertisements  to our basic human needs for  food and shelter love,fun and communion in new Sustainable Consumerism Support Groups. ( one has already started with Blog). Two participants raised the issue of 'greed' and how the need for something like harmony might become so demanding as to take on an aggressive quality.. Also c/o Chris Johnstone that giving  at Christmas may not  bring happiness to the giver or the receiver..So lots to think about .. But these new support groups will be working practically too, eg avoiding credit cards, recycling, making and mending, and finding ways  to reach individuals and families  from all works of life

1.Possible Outcome

To  encourage Sustainable Consumption  Support  Groups  that can work to counteract consumerism  all over the city.

Concern 2

How to  replenish and rebuild our communities so that we are more in touch and able to work collaboratively on sustainable survival?

 

We have noticed that much has happened to separate and fracture our genuine community links. In addition  our capacity to see clearly is often  marred by consumerist distractions.  At the same time adverts often focus on our isolation and shared sense of insecurity promising 'virtual community'. So we are looking at ways to rebuild sustainable community networks that offer friendly  support and  chances to talk things through and plan positive change.

2.Possible Outcome

We want to support our social sustainable survival  with a network of  community/family  cafes across the city, (inspired by the  Exeter Respect Festivals) . We are hoping to start by setting up a weekly half day Drop-in Centre  in the Real Food Centre, in earnest to welcome all local people, especially  those experiencing hardship, cuts backs,  and the challenge of day to day survival. (Need volunteers to help run the Drop in)

 

We  sense that changing how we consume over time, will impact on the existing character of  supply and demand  in local market trading and further afield. So  we hope  the changes  we make  can support the move to a sustainable economics based on well being

 

For more info please contact Gail su7027 @eclipse.co.uk

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