Increase in the production of consumer goods result in damage to the natural environment. What are the causes of this? What can be done to solve this problem?
Indubitably, human wants and needs are continuously evolving and expanding, and there is no end to them. It is believed that the exponential rise in the production of consumer goods has resulted in detrimental ramifications on the environment at an unprecedented scale. Apparently, modernization and industrialization are to be blamed for this universal phenomenon. However, coercive steps can be taken by the successive governments, industries and individuals can overcome this menace.
Fundamentally, there are various factors that contribute to environmental damage. First and foremost, not only the excessive use of natural resources is a factor influencing environmental harm due to increased consumer goods production, but also host of ostensible factors, such as the improper disposal of waste, the use of non-renewable energy sources, and the overuse of pesticides and fertilizers in agriculture. To vindicate, according to a recent research, it has been revealed that the overabundant application of these chemicals result in soil and water contamination, which have catastrophic repercussions on ecosystems and public health. Secondly, unlike the manufacturing of consumer goods, the transportation of these goods to market and their disposal after use also have dismal consequences, including greenhouse gas emissions and landfill waste. Thus, it is of paramount significance to adopt a more sustainable approach to production and consumption to minimize these adverse effects.
Nevertheless, there are predominant measures that can be taken to address this grave issue. Chiefly,
if individuals and businesses prioritize sustainability in their practices, they can have substantial contribution in mitigating environmental deterioration. To corroborate, a business can combat its negative environmental impact by enforcing energy-efficient technologies and reducing waste through recycling and composting. Individuals can also contribute by adopting sustainable habits such as using reusable bags and containers, conserving energy and water, and choosing environmentally-friendly products. Furthermore, can governments also take part in curtailing the negative impacts? Certainly, yes. Since, governments could establish regulations to limit the use of hazardous materials and ensure proper disposal of waste, and promote sustainable production methods, such as using renewable energy sources and reducing waste. Consequently, carrying out sustainable practices by individuals, businesses, and successive governments can effectively curb environmental degradation.
To conclude, although the increased production of consumer goods have harmed the natural environment yet a paradigm shift towards sustainable production methods and increased public awareness could be indispensable in diminishing these problems.