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Do you know how to be a responsible shopper? Listen and read to find out.

How to be ... a responsible shopper

In today’s world of endless consumer choices, it’s very easy to spend without thinking. Many people enjoy bargain-hunting, but our quest to pay less may have hidden dangers. The following is a guide to responsible shopping, which combines an awareness of human rights and green issues, as well as how to save our hard-earned cash!

Be ethical: While you probably have no problem remembering where you bought your T-shirt from, do you actually know where and how it was made? Why not do some research on the policies of big chain-store retailers in order to be ethical when it comes to shopping? Find out where they manufacture their goods and in what conditions. How do they treat their employees? Are they involved in sweatshops or the use of child labour? These days, the Internet is a mine of information on big companies and how they operate. Also, you can always choose products labelled ‘fairtrade’, which is a guarantee the goods have been made under acceptable working conditions.

Be green: First of all, choose products that use fewer natural resources, and avoid goods which come in unnecessary packaging. The goal is not to waste anything! Another great option is buying second-hand. You can find a treasure trove of quality second-hand items at low prices on Internet sites, as well as in traditional charity shops. It’s really worthwhile, as second-hand goods are often much better quality than cheaply made new products for sale at similar prices. Then, of course, there’s always recycling. Try to buy products that can be recycled, or products that are already made out of recycled materials. Also, think twice before you throw anything out: you could always try to recycle your belongings yourself!

Be smart: Don’t throw your money away! Spending wisely involves some thought and research as well. First of all, before you buy, be clear about what you want to buy to avoid unnecessary purchases. Then, compare prices so that you don’t end up paying too much. One great way to save money is to take advantage of seasonal retail shifts, such as the January sales, or late July and August, when they sell summer products off at reduced prices. Lastly, try to remember that responsible shopping isn’t just about trying to spend as little as possible. The goal is to find a good balance between being ethical, being green, and using good money sense!