Empowering Everyone: How Joshi Advocates for Affordable and Accessible Sustainable Lifestyle Choices

Food and Consumer Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi recently highlighted the need for sustainable lifestyle choices that should be available, accessible, and affordable. Speaking at a World Consumer Rights Day webinar, he pointed out that these sustainable options are crucial to address major issues like climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution.

He emphasized that a “just transition” to sustainable living should respect people’s basic needs. Joshi framed this transformation as part of a broader vision of “Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas,” aiming for solutions that benefit everyone and the planet.

Joshi reminded the audience that the principles of consumer protection and sustainability have deep roots in Indian culture. The government has been proactive in creating policies that support sustainable practices. For example, they are expanding eco-labeling programs and tightening regulations to prevent misleading environmental claims—commonly known as greenwashing.

To make sustainable products more available and cost-effective, the government encourages industries to adopt environmentally friendly manufacturing methods and invest in sustainable innovations. Joshi mentioned that the aim is not just to protect consumers but also to promote their interests and well-being.

Moreover, he urged consumers to embrace their responsibilities, drawing inspiration from Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of a zero-carbon lifestyle. He suggested that making mindful choices in daily life contributes to the greater good.

Echoing this sentiment, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Mission LiFE aims to shift from a “use-and-dispose” economy to a circular economy. This approach encourages more thoughtful consumption patterns.

Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare added that the current theme aligns with India’s cultural values. She stressed that sustainability should be neither pricey nor complicated for consumers to adopt.

In recent surveys, consumers have shown an increasing interest in eco-friendly products. A study by NielsenIQ found that nearly 75% of global consumers are willing to change their shopping habits to reduce environmental impact. This shift in consumer behavior highlights the need for businesses and governments to collaborate in providing more sustainable choices.

As people navigate these changes, the overall trend points toward growing awareness and action. Sustainable living may no longer be seen simply as a choice; it’s becoming a collective responsibility.



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Need to make sustainable lifestyle choices available, accessible, affordable for all: Joshi