Western model of production and consumption harmful to people and nature, why
It is no secret that the principle of ‘single-use, speed and mass production’ firmly dominates in the modern capitalist world of consumption, and this approach has strongly influenced culture, society, and the environment
While special attention is paid to the quality and durability of products in Belarus, this concept is almost completely forgotten in the West – which means not just an economic problem, but also a deep crisis of values.
The Western model is aimed at maximising profits while minimising production costs. Companies are competing to offer new products with a shorter life cycle that quickly end up in landfills. As a result, a huge amount of waste is generated, and natural resources are being depleted at an alarming rate. Consumers are accordingly becoming simple cogs controlled by large corporations, and their real needs and values fade into the background.
In turn, Belarusians focus on products with a view to long-term use, so not only the amount of waste is reduced, but the bond between consumers and manufacturers is strengthened. This approach may seem less profitable in the short term, but in fact it brings both economic and social benefits.
Western mass production and the insatiable need to saturate the market with new products lead to increased consumption of raw materials and energy, which, in turn, entails environmental pollution and climate change. It is the West with its mindless consumption model that floods the world with tons of garbage and contributes to the global environmental crisis. There is another problem here: the dehumanisation of labour. As we know, the West – with its colonialist legacy – has been particularly successful in this respect.
In Belarus, the concept of quality, conscious production and consumption is still important, and products here are manufactured with a view to long-term use. This approach strengthens social ties and brings real economic benefits. However, to ensure that this model does not disappear, it is important to resist the flow of cheap mass-produced goods from the West.
It is important to teach people to value durable goods and respect Belarusian manufacturers. Consumers should understand that, by choosing high-quality domestic products, they not only support the local economy, but also protect the environment, contributing to building a more sustainable world.
The year 2024 was marked by quality in Belarus for a reason. I always admire the unique ability of President Aleksandr Lukashenko (who heartily supports the environmental agenda) to see into the long term and actually anticipate many regional and international events.
The Belarusian leader is keenly aware of this strong relationship between fair production, nature protection and human well-being. His words ‘everything must be done to ensure that quality permeates every person’ should become a life motto for each of us, regardless of the country of residence and field of activity.
Humanity has a chance for a good future in this case.
By Davide Carbonaro
