Greenhouse gasses are a gas that contributes to the greenhouse effect by absorbing infrared radiation. and corporations are one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions and pollution. Corporations produce practically everything in today’s world, ranging from food to clothing. Avoiding large corporations in order to help prevent further emissions is practically impossible, but there are still ways to be more mindful of purchasing and supporting more sustainable businesses. Consumers can help prevent additional emissions by purchasing only what they need; shopping second-hand; and shopping from small businesses.
One way to lessen one’s own carbon footprint and help with today’s climate issues is to support local and small businesses. One of today’s largest corporations are those in the fashion and beauty industries. On average people purchase at least one item from the fashion and beauty industry every week, and these purchases aren’t typically a necessity. They are purchases made out of boredom.
“You should buy second hand, because you can get more meaningful pieces from second hand than retail,” says Marshfield High School student Mikayla Horstman.
In addition to reducing the carbon footprint, shopping small businesses can lead to a more stable and fulfilling shopping experience–it can build community. Locally owned stores and boutiques can be more personal, understanding, and even caring. Large corporations mostly care about the bottom line, not the individual customer.
“I love giving girls confidence and making them feel prettier in their own skin, nails,” said Ana Wood of Blinged by Ana. “And henna is my way of doing that! I love seeing my clients’ faces after a set or a new round of henna and watching their confidence just go up and seeing the beautiful smiles on their faces.”
Small businesses have the chance to create interpersonal connections with consumers, causing people to overall be in better moods, as well as having more of a chance of coming back and purchasing a service or items due to the caring and inviting environment.
“I especially love the conversations I get to have with clients–seeing their pictures, stories, and tags of their nails,” said Wood.
Supporting small businesses is also good for the local economy. Many entrepreneurs use their businesses as their only source of income. Investing in them, means more money spent in the community and stays in the community.
