CRI and IIEE publish two papers on "Understanding Consumption"

CRI and IIIEE have jointly published two papers which give an interdisciplinary perspective on consumption behaviour, as well as some of the policy implications that follow from this broader understanding of the factors that shape consumption.  Part I analyses more formal factors, such as the economic framework and political setting, as well as business models and technological innovations.  Part II focuses on informal influences, such as social norms, psychological factors, habits, values and symbolism.

So far, all the efforts to address growing environmental and human problems through technological solutions and policy measures have been largely outpaced by growing population and increasing consumption levels. Therefore, an understanding of the essential driving forces and complexities of consumption, and of how environmental impacts from rising consumption can be reduced, is becoming increasingly important.

The Role of Formal and Informal Forces in Shaping Consumption and Implications for a Sustainable Society. Part I (Mont and Power 2010) http://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/2/7/2232/

The Role of Formal and Informal Forces in Shaping Consumption and Implications for a Sustainable Society. Part II (Power and Mont 2010) http://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/2/7/2232/