Making sustainability a lifestyle rather than a philosophy.

• Author: Gonzalez, Arancha
• Position: MESSAGE FROM

We are truly entering the age of the consumer. Across the world consumers are increasingly aware of the impact their purchasing decisions can have on how goods are produced. And there is growing awareness among producers that value chains that are inclusive and support sustainable production can be an attractive proposition for this new and influential generation of 'woke consumers' for whom ethical consumption is more a lifestyle than just a philosophy.

How do we support truly sustainable consumption and production patterns? How do we integrate this within the rising concerns of climate change and biodiversity loss. How can we facilitate whole of economy shifts to the green and blue economy (see Pages 12-13). Part of the explanation is in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, which are an integrated compass that places a key focus on this issue through Goal 12, sustainable consumption and production.

Ensuring sustainable consumption and production patterns is not easy. Challenges are multifaceted. Poor governance, weak property rights and lack of capacity to enforce environmental and labour protection are just some of the challenges.

While niche market standards offer a real opportunity to improve environmental management, it can also be costly, especially for developing countries, least developed countries, small island developing states or small vulnerable economies, whose farmers and producers are often isolated from markets, have challenges accessing finance and face high costs of certification.

At the International Trade Centre we have been keen to shine a spotlight on voluntary sustainability standards...