Though it’s arguable that the reason why options for sustainable practices are much more expensive, is the fact that the cost depends on many factors such as materials, labor, and time, conversely, it should not be this way. If climate change and environmental depletion are actually in need of dire attention and truly are encouraged to be a shared practice, then there should not be an economic barrier resulting in everyone, regardless of socioeconomic class, not having access to sustainable options because of cost. How can we solve a problem collectively, if there are only certain people who can contribute to it? How are we all expected to live sustainably if not everyone can afford it? If there is no effort to make it affordable? If it’s only for those who are financially stable? 

 

Because sustainable options are presented as more expensive, it leads to the growing perception that sustainability is luxury. And with the perception of luxury comes the exclusivity in who has the money to do so, and who does not. Larger, more popular, brands and companies having sustainable options can be multifaceted. Yes, they are starting to take initiative within the climate movement, but it is also just so often seen as a marketing tactic. Any fashion brand selling “sustainable” fashion amps up the price double and even triple. For example, french fashion company Longchamp, often known for the famous Le Pliage totes, sell “eco-friendly” versions of the tote for a minimum of $300 depending on the size. When in fact, the regular non-eco-friendly Le Pliage totes sell for as low as $110. With that arduous price change, it promotes the idea that only the wealthy or those who can afford, can only be the ones that can be sustainable.

 

Sustainable living marketed by society encourages classism. But this should not prohibit people from finding other ways to be environmentally conscious without the financial burden. Our planet is still in need! The simple act of choosing not to use a straw may not seem as impactful, but it is one less thing we need to worry about not ending up in a landfill. Instead of finding the need to buy something, do something instead, such as the three Rs: reduce, reuse, recycle. By reducing unnecessary items such as single-use commodities, reusing items for different purposes instead of throwing them away, and recycling system just by segregating recyclables from garbage, many can begin to live a better, sustainable life than those who find it necessary to buy marketed “sustainable” items to achieve the same goal. 

 

Sustainability should not be exclusive. It should not be a privilege. It should be for everyone.