Does Sustainability Support Capitalism or Challenge It?
“The details are not the details. They make the design.” - Carles Eames
Sometimes I think about this: I am part of capitalism too. I design, I create, and I work to increase consumption. Recently, “sustainability” has become an important part of our lives. But is sustainability truly a positive side of capitalism, or does it have points that need questioning? Many brands and companies invest in sustainability, using recyclable packaging, creating eco-friendly products, and promoting “green” choices.
But in the end, it’s still about making a profit in a capitalist system. This is where “greenwashing” comes in—companies wanting to look “green” but not truly helping the environment. As Charles Eames wisely said, “The details are not the details. They make the design.” Sometimes, even with a “sustainable” label, we may not be sure if it truly helps the planet. Are we really contributing to sustainability by buying “green” products?
There are other ways to think about sustainability that go beyond labels. For example, the circular economy offers a model where products are designed to be used over and over, focusing on reusing and recycling instead of always buying new.
Another idea is “responsible consumption,” where we consider buying only what we truly need. In a world that constantly encourages us to consume more, responsible consumption requires a new level of awareness and sometimes even sacrifice. Is sustainability, then, just another trend? Or can it actually stand as a genuine alternative within—or even against—capitalism? Perhaps sustainability isn’t trying to fight capitalism but rather finding a way to work alongside it. Designers, companies, and consumers all play a role in shaping this balance.
Even if sustainability sometimes challenges capitalism, maybe the real answer is finding a harmony where both can coexist. Small choices, thoughtful details, and a shift in perspective might be the first steps forward. So, maybe the question we should start with is, “Do I really need this?” In the end, sustainability might be both a challenge and a companion to capitalism, inviting us to rethink how we live and create.
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