Every day we make purchase decisions based on several product attributes, depending on the category we are shopping for. Habitually we mainly pay attention to the price and characteristics listed on the product label like ingredients/materials and place of provenance. Nowadays though, we have access to way more product information, and as evolving, better informed, and conscious consumers we have the opportunity to choose based not only on the physical product attributes, but also in what ways it contributes, or not, to a better tomorrow for our planet.

So what do we need to look out for if we want to be mindful consumers and make socially conscious purchasing decisions?

In an ideal world, we would need to make sure that the production process creates a positive impact on society and the environment. Ethical sourcing, fair wages, sustainable practices, supporting the welfare of local communities and reversing problems caused so far would be some contributing factors. However, since the world we now live in is far from ideal, for the time being, we can opt for those products and services whose production process creates a minimum or no harmful impact on our planet.

How/where do we find those virtuous, natural, organic, non-gmo, with no harmful ingredients, ethically sourced, eco-friendly, fair trade, producing zero-waste, energy-efficient, promoting conservation, job equality and local communities supporting products?

The inspiration to compile the list below came from my need to buy a graduation present for a girl that already has everything any girl her age wishes for. I've chosen gifts from several of the sites below in an attempt to inspire her to be mindful of the power that stems from her shopping decisions and the multi-faceted positive impact she can have in the lives of people and the environment.

I will keep the list updated as I'm always on the lookout for the best possible product options when it comes to supporting positive change with my every purchase. I do not receive any monetary or other form of compensation from the featured sites. The links are pointing to the about/mission/impact page of every store so you can proceed with only what resonates with you.

I hope you enjoy the list and please send me your comments and suggestions to make it better.

books, maps & globes, travel & gear, clothing, home decor, kids