While over-consumption has become normalized, it is not normal.
Many people have numerous similar tops, along with wardrobes filled with fast-fashion items that will be donated by the end of the season.
Media during the holiday season promotes over-consumption. With Black Friday the day after Thanksgiving, many people take advantage of small sales and use them as an opportunity to buy unnecessary items just because it is seen to be a good deal.
Another problem that leads to over-consumption are the events that take place after the winter holidays. Money and gift cards are usual gifts that are given. Once a gift like that is received, individuals will go shopping with just the intention of spending their money for the sake of fulfillment.
The phrases, “What are we asking for this Christmas?” “What are we wearing this winter?” “Use my code for a sale,” and “PR haul!” are commonly seen across social media platforms.
Advertisements on social media contribute to people splurging on items that are not needed. On TikTok and Instagram, having drawers full of products leads viewers to believe that they need to have a new tool every day because they feel like they are missing out if they don’t have something that is viral. Trends like these can be seen at WHS.
However, the influencers are not even purchasing the items that they are endorsing. These things are being sent to them for free and they get paid by the brands to advertise.
Newer generations are being exposed to absurd spending habits early in their lives and as over-consumption is being glamorized, they are being set up for failure if this continues.
“I think that it’s weird how kids are getting all of these things because when I was a kid I was playing with toys and now all of these kids are using makeup and going on their phones. I also think it is unhealthy for children to be exposed to this because I believe that it is very important to experience a full childhood because that is what shapes them into the people they become in the future,” Sophomore Sydney Casper explained.
Children of the ages eight through ten are most easily-influenced, according to Developmental Science. The rise in social media use for children has increased over the years, allowing young kids to be consuming excessive content that promotes an unrealistic lifestyle.
The world already has a surplus of materials being used up daily by fast-fashion brands, and purchasing them is not stopping the production. For example, a popular fast-fashion brand is Shein. Their trendy clothing can be purchased online for low prices.
While this may seem appealing, Time states, “The manufacturers’ rapid use of virgin polyester and large consumption of oil churns out the same amount of CO2 as approximately 180 coal-fired power plants, according to Synthetics Anonymous 2.0, a report published on fashion sustainability.”
In order to make a change, consumers need to use up all of their hair, skin, and makeup products that they already have. Also, buying second hand is beneficial because there is so much clothing sitting in stores such as the Goodwills in Groton, Niantic, and Norwich. It makes more sense because buying second hand does not supply more money to companies that strip the world’s resources.
On TikTok, some are making a game called “Project Pan” where they set a goal to finish using one product before they buy another or use something else. While it may seem like common sense to use what is already there, impulse buying is extremely difficult to avoid for many.
Wanting to conform oneself to different trends is just leading society into a downward spiral. People will purchase these viral items and then do the same when there is a new popular aesthetic. However, some trends help people to engage in their interests and try new things, so it is not completely negative if it isn’t allowed to get out of hand.
Society needs to become aware of the dangers of over-consumption and how harmful it can really be. Before considering purchasing the next big thing, look at what is already there and appreciate the materials that are not currently being used to their fullest potential.
