Sustainable consumption is not as contradictory as it may first appear. All you have to do is pay attention to what you buy as well as how and where you shop. The shops listed below will help you limit your ecological footprint, because they sell local or fair trade products, use less packaging or focus on second-hand goods.
When it comes to food, local or fair trade products will always ensure a small(er) footprint because they avoid needless transport. If you also opt for organic products with minimum packaging or no packaging at all, you’re certainly on the right track. Have you ever been to a zero-waste shop? Bring your own bags and containers and fill ‘em up.
You can make informed choices in het non-food department as well. This includes vintage clothing or furniture, and you can also buy your books or vinyl records at a second-hand shop. Numerous shops offer ethically and ecologically responsible goods, so sustainability does not have to be a limiting factor.
Do you want to be sure that you support the right people with your purchases? Then buy directly from local growers at a farmer’s market or fresh-food shop in the city. If you’re looking for antiques, collectibles, flowers and books, Ghent’s weekly, monthly and annual markets are the place to be. Put on your green shoes and go for it!
