Shopping locally has become more and more popular due to more of the younger generation being eco conscious and more conscious of their general community. The support for local businesses over fast fashion is ever growing, due to fast fashion being typically associated with activities such as child labour, trafficking and slavery. Many more people no longer want to ignore this, and choose to support local stores rather than fast fashion outlets that are unwilling to change their ways.
These are some reasons why shopping local is important.
Reduction of carbon footprint
Locally owned business will make local purchases and produce here in Australia. This will ensure that less mass production occurs, and thus less mass use of resources. This ultimately reduces the impact on the environment significantly. Local stores also tend to set up shop in the town or city centres, meaning there is less urban sprawl, allowing the environment to thrive.
Creation of local jobs
Fast fashion outsources its production and manufacturing jobs to foreign countries. Not only does this involve unethical activities such as child labour, trafficking and slavery, but it also takes away jobs that could be created within the community. Local stores allows local jobs to be created, which means more opportunity for the community.
Encouragement of innovation
Local businesses are more likely to be innovating and try new things rather than big corporations. These local businesses are run by a few people or an individual, meaning it is more likely that new ideas and changes will be implemented and tried out. By supporting local businesses, you support innovation within the community.
By supporting local stores, you reduce your carbon footprint, create local jobs and encourage innovation. More and more people are looking to support their community, especially the new generation, as they are more conscious of the issues that are prevalent within fast fashion.
