consumption in our community

This trifold was done for the end-of-semester journey (humanities & science integration) project. There was a theme of sustainability for that semester, so we each chose a project to do with it and pitched it to the teachers. Once we were all set on our projects, we got to work on making a positive change related to our problem.

The problem I chose was consumerism and the wase that comes from it. Consumerism is defined as “the theory that a progressively greater consumption of goods is economically beneficial; attachment to materialistic values or possessions” (Roy 1) and also the theory that customer spending is the best driver and measure of economic growth and success of a capitalist economy (Duignan). This leads to a lessened presence of traditional ways of life, an increase in self-regarding materialism, waste, pollution, natural resource depletion, and a rise negative mental states (anxiety, depression, stress).

The chosen solution was to host an item swap at the December 14th Tessellations Holiday Picnic. Participants in the swap brought in their own items, whether it be clothes (including shoes), toys, books, or kids’ magazines.

These donated items were laid out on a table or picnic blanket to be taken for free. Over the duration of the picnic, the number of items gradually increased, and some items were taken as well. At the end of the event, the remaining books were given to the Tessellations school library, and the leftover clothes (in good condition) were donated to Goodwill.

Though clothes were the most often donated (likely because of the name “clothing swap,” as several donors were not aware of the range of items eligible for donation, as well as the abundance of growing children in a school), the toys and books were the most popular items for taking.

For future iterations, here are some lessons learned:

• Organize clothing by size for easier search and (predicted) increase of taking, not just donating
• Advertise swap as a general item trade more than a clothing-only trade

With these key takeaways, I look forward to doing this again in the future. I will get support from my family (& my brother) to continue expand this empire!

As we design our next swap, I plan to implement these changes for an improved experience for all.