Sustainable Household Consumption and the Law

Abstract

Consumption makes up the main part of our economies. Accounting for 60% of the GDP worldwide it builds the basis for economic growth in most countries. At the same time it is a major cause of environmental destruction, causing resource depletion, pollution and waste. It has been internationally recognised that changing consumption habits therefore is a necessary part of addressing humanity’s impact on the environment and climate change. This paper analysis what role governments and legislative measures have in influencing consumers in their purchase decisions. Through an analysis of different possible measures and some examples of their implementation, it comes to the conclusion that national governments’ focus on the industry persists and consumer habits are only regulated sparingly. Legislators mostly refrain from strong consumer regulation because they fear to restrict the personal freedom of their citizens and to hamper economic growth. However, stronger measures and a stricter regulation of consumption habits and levels are necessary to achieve sustainable consumption habits and mitigate humanity’s negative impacts on the environment.