Our fast-paced and consumption-driven lives have been forcing us to make quicker decisions as our minds race to keep up with the latest in everything, from fashion and technology to self-care products and house interiors.
The more conscious ones, however, have been approaching trends differently, with a greater focus on healthier and more environmentally aware habits that call for more minimalism and sustainability.
How the MENA Region is Shifting Towards More Mindful Purchases
A greater number of people in the region are starting to see beyond the short-term gratification of buying more, resulting in less impulsive consumerism and more conscious reflections on spending.
A 2023 study by Nielsen has shown that consumers are becoming more concerned about the environment and how their purchasing power is affecting our planet. In the Middle East and Africa region, South Africa has the highest numbers in sustainability habits (81%), followed by Turkey at 70%, Saudi Arabia at 55%, and Egypt at 50%.
Overall, we are witnessing growing calls for de-cluttering and waste-free living, encouraging us to pause and question our intentions and impact on the environment.
Let’s explore some businesses embracing this change.
Businesses that Advocate For Less Waste and More Upcycling
Replate Middle East
Initiatives like Replate Middle East in the UAE work on distributing surplus food from businesses to communities in need, calling for building a future where “no food is wasted, and no one is left behind.”
Zero Waste Palestine
Zero Waste Palestine is dedicated to environmental sustainability through content advocating for more minimal lifestyles and less waste in products used for beauty, household care, gardening, cooking, and food storage.
Initiatives that Benefit Communities in Need
Tawasol, Egypt
Tawasol Egypt serves the low-income communities in three of Cairo’s informal slum areas: Ezzbet Khairallah, Istabl Antar, and Batn el Ba’ara/Dar Al Salam. Profits made from their performances and proceeds from their handmade products continue to sustain the communities and pay for their wages.
Sarah’s Bag, Lebanon
Sarah’s Bag is a Lebanese slow fashion label that empowers underprivileged women who are trained to revive traditional embroidery, bringing ancient crafting techniques to life.
Businesses that Resell Second-Hand Pieces
The Space, Egypt
If you reside in Cairo and prefer in-person second-hand shopping, stop by The Space in Maadi and find joy in owning a pre-loved piece to make new memories with.
Thrift for Good, UAE
Thrift for Good in the UAE has yet another edge of paying it forward, where all proceeds go to charity organizations.
How Can We Develop A Mindset of Being a Change-Maker?
Before you decide to buy a new item, ask yourself a few questions: “Why am I really buying this piece? Do I need it, or am I just following another trend? Where is my money going?”
It’s truly up to us to empower our true values in a world that encourages impulsive decisions. Let’s slow down, pause, reflect, and live more consciously.
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