‘Social Media Fueling Excessive Consumption’
Friday 2 August 2024
Multiple studies have shed light on the concerning correlation between social media usage and the escalation of waste ending up in landfills.
Dr Phillip Ozimek from Ruhr University Bochum, Germany, spearheaded research that revealed how social media platforms contribute to fostering a culture of materialism among users, ultimately leading to rampant patterns of excessive consumption.
Individuals who are active on social media, both as users and content creators, often find themselves succumbing to the pressure of purchasing more than they actually require in a bid to stay in tune with the latest trends.
A comprehensive report by Incharge Debt Solutions in 2022 highlighted that a substantial portion of participants admitted to overspending simply to keep up with their social circle.
One prevalent trend on social media is the concept of ‘hauls’, where creators showcase their recent shopping sprees, often featuring an excessive amount of items. Maeve Galvin, the global policy and campaigns director at Fashion Revolution, succinctly pointed out to Vogue Magazine that ‘hauls are intricately linked to gamification and the competitive nature of consumerism, especially in the realm of fashion.’
An intriguing case study emerged following the release of the Barbie movie in 2023, which sparked a frenzy of pink clothing purchases among thousands of online enthusiasts. However, research conducted by Ecoveritas unveiled an unfortunate truth – the majority of these garments eventually find their way to overcrowded landfills.
Another concerning scenario revolves around the trend of flaunting a vast collection of the Stanley Cup, a reusable bottle, on social media platforms. AnalystNews reported how numerous users take pride in exhibiting their colourful rows of Stanley Cups in videos, perpetuating a facade of materialistic abundance.
Maurie Cohen, a distinguished Professor of Sustainability Studies at the New Jersey Institute of Technology, articulated the pervasive grip of a culture dominated by status symbols and style-driven consumerism, remarking, ‘How profoundly entrenched we are in the incessant pursuit of conspicuous consumption.’
If you are concerned about the impact of social media on consumer behaviours and the environment, we invite you to join our burgeoning community at the Net Zero Club News Network. By registering for one of our membership tiers, you will gain exclusive access to the complete article along with a wealth of valuable insights and resources. Together, let us strive towards a more sustainable and mindful future.
