Responsible Purchasing

There are a number of reasons why businesses change their polices and practices to become more sustainable.  In some cases they are forced to for legal reasons; in some cases it is part of the general ethos of the company.  However, in many cases market forces initiate change because customers "demand" different, more sustainable goods and services.  So, you, the customer can make a difference by what you choose to buy.

When customers, like you, show particular purchasing patterns, industry may make its own changes   These changes can often be faster than bringing in a new legislation and can sometimes save a company money or give them market advantages.

The things you purchase could lead industry to make some beneficial environmental, social and economic improvements, if you purchase responsibly.

Doing Your Bit

• Buy local products when you can, such as food.  This will reduce the miles it travels and the pollution associated with travel
• Choosing local tradespeople and businesses promotes the local economy
• Buy organic products when possible, they do not use fertiliser or pesticides which contribute to global warming and effect wildlife
• Invest in ethical companies
• Buy Fairtrade products

What the Council are doing

• Promoting Fairtrade locally.  The Council passed a resolution to this effect on 18th April 2005 and we have a separate Fairtrade in Eastleigh Borough webpage
• Making sustainable procurement a key issue in its own procurement practices e.g buying green energy for the Civic Offices and other sites.

Links

• Fairtrade
• Ethical Consumer
• The Ethical Investment Association