Information requirements for sustainable consumption

Abstract

Purpose An increasingly important factor that influences purchasing decisions is that of environmental protection, particularly associated with climate change. This is particularly important as far as the purchase of consumer durables is concerned because of the energy that they consume; energy efficiency is one route towards minimizing environmental impact. Minimizing such impact is one factor towards achieving sustainability and therefore making possible sustainable development. This paper aims to address this issue. Design/methodology/approach This paper shows that labeling is a crucial component of sustainable purchasing. It is based on literature and a review of current practice in various countries around the world. Findings The central argument of this paper is that the desire to make sustainable purchasing decisions necessitates better information to make decisions according to this criterion. This in turn requires manufacturers to provide better information through their labeling. Social implications The paper shows that better information enables more sustainable consumer purchasing decisions. Originality/value This research extends knowledge of the components of sustainability and requirements for sustainable development, particularly as far as consumer purchasing decisions are concerned. It also has potentially important implications for manufacturers and also shows for them an important route towards achieving sustainable development for themselves and for the global economy.

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