Overconsumption: Dare to Degrowth

An economic system based on infinite growth simply doesn’t make sense in a world of finite resources, yet that’s the gamble we’re taking. Now, we’re being confronted with the harsh reality of ecological limits: resource scarcity, mass extinction, and climate disruption, among other serious repercussions. According to an assessment by the Institut de recherche et d’informations socio-économiques (IRIS), Quebecers are consuming twice as many natural resources as is ecologically viable. During this time of frenzied (over)consumption, we would rather talk about degrowth. What if we decided to take a breather instead of running out of steam this year? Let’s take a cue from the season change and slow down to nature’s rhythm.

This year at Lab22, we’ve put together an original Advent calendar with 24 fun and simple activities that apply the principles of degrowth to everyday life, like spending the evening with the lights off, signing up for a volunteer activity, cooking seasonal vegetables, and taking a walk to enjoy the fresh air. We challenge you and your family to complete them all! Visit our website to download the calendar (resource in French). You’ll discover that degrowth is more accessible than you thought and can even help you reconnect with what’s really important.

This year, instead of buying your child the trendy tech gadget everyone is talking about, give them an experience! There are so many options to choose from: a yoga class or gym membership, an ice canoeing trip, a winter sports outing, a cooking class, an escape room session, tickets to a show, a gift card to their favourite restaurant, a photo shoot... Whatever your child’s interests, you’re sure to find an activity that they’ll love!

Have you ever thought about the fact that every household in your neighbourhood owns a lawnmower that they only use a few times in the summer? Many of the things we own don’t actually get used that often, so sharing our belongings helps all of us! Want to try your hand at making Christmas donuts, but don’t own a deep fryer? Ask a neighbour if you can borrow theirs! Need more board games for your holiday game-a-thon? Head to your local toy library! The sharing economy combats over-consumption, maximizes the use of assets, reduces purchase costs, and helps you build relationships with your neighbours.

Here are a few interesting sharing initiatives to check out (websites in French):

• Partage Club application

• Outil-o-thèque

During this festive time, we wish you moments of shared joy in good company! Let’s take this opportunity to consume less, share more, and slow down so we can savour life’s simple pleasures. Happy holidays!