What’s the role of consumer action in the cost of living crisis?
We’re in the midst of the worst financial crisis that this country has experienced for decades.
Ethical consumer week 2022 will ask:
- How do we equip and encourage consumers to make ethical choices while negotiating sky-high living costs and stagnant wages?
- Are ethical consumer choices accessible for all people?
The use of food banks throughout the pandemic soared and has remained high; the decision between ‘eating or heating’ will hit more people come autumn when there is, yet again, another rise in energy prices.
We have already seen evidence that the cost of living crisis is making the balancing act between affordability and sustainability even harder.
According to the ONS, more than three-quarters of adults in Great Britain are concerned about the rising cost of living.
Of these respondents, 50% said they worried “nearly every day”. On the other hand, the ONS anxiety survey showed affluent Britons were largely immune to the impact of inflation.
At Ethical Consumer Week 2022, we will investigate who’s benefiting, who’s paying the cost, and the role of government, business and consumers in finding equitable solutions.
We need to find equitable solutions to face the cost of living crisis.
Now, more than ever, industries must lead on sustainability.
Action urgently needs to be taken; there's a reasonable opportunity for businesses to:
- increase the sustainability of products on shelves
- help customers make informed choices
- reduce costs for businesses and consumers
