Sir, – The recent Pricewatch article "The sustainable consumer" (Kayle Crosson, February 25th) poses the pertinent question, "How can we change our purchasing patterns to minimise environmental damage?"
While the article makes some welcome recommendations for engaging in more “green” consumerism, and provides some detail as to the economic and environmental costs thereof, it fails to mention the most cost-effective and environmentally sound option of all, which is to reduce our overall consumption. By asking “How much do I need?” or “How much is enough?”, we can start to challenge collective conventions around consumerism and have a real and lasting impact for a sustainable future. – Yours, etc,
Dr GARY GOGGINS,
Department of Geography,
NUI Galway.