Conscious Consumption Quest

When to use Conscious Consumption Quest

Use this method when you want to educate a group about the hidden costs of consumerism and empower them to make more informed choices.

What it solves

Lack of awareness about the interconnectedness of global supply chains and the impact of purchasing decisions.

How to run Conscious Consumption Quest, step by step

1. Pre-Assignment - Assign participants to watch relevant media (e.g., the Dutch program 'Genaaid') focusing on the fashion industry and its supply chains. (Homework, allow 60-120 minutes)
2. Initial Discussion - In small groups, discuss reactions to the media, focusing on awareness of supply chain complexity and personal perceptions of the fashion industry. (30 minutes)
3. Supply Chain Research - Divide participants into teams and assign each team a specific part of the jeans supply chain to investigate (e.g., raw materials, dyeing, manufacturing). (30 minutes)
4. In-Depth Research - Teams conduct thorough research on their assigned supply chain segment, identifying actors, processes, and challenges. (Homework, allow 60-120 minutes)
5. Analysis Presentation - Teams present their findings to the larger group, focusing on the complexities and interdependencies within their specific area. (60 minutes)
6. Sustainability Impact Analysis - Each team analyzes the ecological, societal, and economic impacts of their chosen supply chain segment, considering both positive and negative effects. (Homework, allow 60-120 minutes)
7. Impact Presentation & Discussion - Teams present their sustainability impact analysis, followed by a plenary discussion to enhance awareness of the overall journey and impact of the product. (60 minutes)
8. Self-Reflection - Participants individually self-assess their learning progress using reflective questions. (10 minutes)

Materials needed

• Access to relevant media (e.g., 'Genaaid' episodes)
• Internet access for research
• Presentation software (e.g., PowerPoint, Google Slides)
• Flip charts or whiteboards
• Reflective questions handout

Facilitator tips

• Be prepared for students to express feelings of guilt or overwhelm; provide resources and support.
• Provide clear guidance and resources for researching supply chains.
• Encourage teams to consider a wide range of impacts, including social, environmental, and economic factors.

Common pitfalls

• Teams may struggle to find reliable information on specific supply chain segments; provide curated resources and guidance.
• Participants may become overwhelmed by the complexity of the issues; break down the task into manageable steps and provide ongoing support.

Variations

• Focus on a different product (e.g., coffee, electronics).
• Invite guest speakers from the industry to share insights.
• Organize a field trip to a local factory or processing plant.

Running it online or hybrid

Use breakout rooms for small group discussions and a shared online whiteboard for presenting analyses.

What it produces

Presentations analyzing the supply chain of a chosen product and its sustainability impacts.

Origin

Adapted from Transition Makers — source

Build a session around Conscious Consumption Quest

METODIC places Conscious Consumption Quest inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.

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