The other night, my oldest child and I sat down to watch a Netflix documentary called Buy Now: The Shopping Conspiracy about the hidden costs of “fast fashion” and rapidly produced electronics. Spoiler alert: It wasn’t a feel-good Hallmark special. It turns out that the clothes on our backs and those nifty gadgets in our hands are, in fact, contributing to some pretty hefty planetary damage. Big-name brands (we won’t name names, but you can probably guess) have business models that prioritize speed and profit over sustainability. They churn out items at breakneck speed, knowing full well the environmental harm caused by their practices. Yet, efforts to clean up their act seem to be on the back burner — because hey, as long as consumers keep clamoring for the latest and greatest, why mess with the profit margins?
For my son, a proud member of Gen Alpha, this was like a plot twist in a mystery novel. He’s grown up in a world where new gadgets and trendy outfits seem as routine as morning cereal. The idea that this “normal” is built on unsustainable practices was a total shock to him. My husband and I, on the other hand, had an idea of what was going on. We’ve had ongoing conversations with people who’ve dedicated their lives to increasing sustainability efforts around the world. It wasn’t news to us, and we’ve talked with our kids about these issues before, but hearing it from another source — a slick documentary with plenty of visuals — made it hit home for my son in a way our words hadn’t.
So, the big question right now is: What can we do? The good news is that change often starts at home — literally! First, we can make small but impactful choices, like opting for second-hand clothes or electronics. Thrift stores and online resale platforms are treasure troves and bonus: You might end up with something unique! Second, teach your kids (and maybe yourself) the art of fixing things. A torn shirt or a glitchy gadget doesn’t have to mean an automatic trip to the trash. Finally, get creative with gift-giving this holiday season. Experiences, homemade crafts, or even “coupons” for quality time are thoughtful, low-impact alternatives to mass-produced goods.
It’s understandable to get caught in the rat race of everything, wanting the best for those you love the most. Just a one-click-buy and that person is checked off the Christmas list. But what about thought and care? Do you even remember what you gifted two or three years ago? While one article might not change your mind, I IMPLORE you to give yourself some time to think, do some research on items that have meaning, and ask, “Is this person worthy of an item that’s meant to break in less than two years’ time?” or better yet, “What can I do just to make this place a little bit better?”
The Christmas season, a.k.a. the Olympics of shopping, is the perfect time to rethink our buying habits. Instead of diving headfirst into the frenzy, consider making a holiday “wish list” for the planet. Support brands that are committed to ethical and sustainable practices, or better yet, shop locally. Need wrapping paper? Use old newspapers or reusable fabric. Quit following those influencers who seem to post fashion haul after an unboxing and yet another fashion haul appears two weeks later. When have they ever made us feel good about the items we already have and love? But when you do buy, focus on quality over quantity — something durable that won’t end up in a landfill by next year.
Ultimately, conversations like the one my son and I had are crucial. They help us see that we don’t have to accept the status quo. Gen Alpha is growing up with the tools and knowledge to demand better from big brands — and from all of us. By starting with small, conscious decisions at home, we can teach our kids (and remind ourselves) that a healthier planet isn’t just a wish; it’s something we can actively work toward, one thoughtful purchase at a time.
