Evolution of Green. The New York Times business section has an excellent article today, At Home Depot, How Green Is That Chainsaw?, examining the power and relevance of Home Depot's Eco Options marketing. Is Home Depot too inclusive in its 2500 Eco Options products? As corporations scramble to jump on the Green boat, many consumers are pointing out that retailers are promoting green while continuing to sell harsh chemicals and very un-green goods...
There's nothing wrong with selling both "green" and "non-green" products. There are legitimate uses for both. You have to rember - the purpose of a *business* is to be profitable, not to be politically correct.
view boomer's profile
I'm so sick of people making an effort then getting crap because they aren't making *enough* of an effort.
And where is the consumer responsibility? I'm sure there are people buying compact fluorescents then driving home in an (empty except for the driver) big-ass SUV.
view patrick (the other one)'s profile
I drive a big-ass SUV. By myself. In the HOV lane. It's not your problem. I'm the one paying for the gas, and I'm the one paying the gas taxes that pay for the roads, and I'm the one that will have to answer to a judge if I get a ticket, so...chill out, dude.
view boomer's profile
You chill out.
I wasn't talking to you specifically, just talking about how there are many angles to the responsibilty of green living, and not *all* the responsibility lies with the retailer.
Jeez, this is just bad kharma day, I swear to GOD.
view patrick (the other one)'s profile
The topic of consumer responsibility is taboo, and has become a pink elephant topic avoided by the politicians and public alike. We've gotten so used to blaming everybody but ourselves, we're not honestly recognizing that we're part of the problem. Conversely, we can all be part of the solution, by curbing consumption, supporting responsible and innovative companies, and just recognizing small choices add up. Unfortunately, getting people to change their habits of comfort (which are mistakenly considered inherent "freedoms"), even partially, can be near impossible until there is some sort of collapse or catastrophe that forces us to rethink our values and priorities. Some people will fight change just because it takes them out of their comfort zone. It seems to be human nature. I'm always saddened that people have to see something in it for themselves to make a change. It's their right to do whatever they please, but it sure isn't admirable.
view gregory's profile
Patrick - you're right. I'm sorry. I *do* need to chill and just stay away from the topic all together.
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